China Requested an Extended YangWang and BYD Provided It | Carscoops

      BYD has developed new 23-inch wheels featuring floating center caps for the top-tier variant of its luxury SUV.

      The U8 L boasts a wheelbase of 127.9 inches and will be available solely in a 2+2+2 seating arrangement.

      This luxury SUV incorporates the same quad-motor, turbo-four range-extender setup found in the standard model.

      In total, the U8 produces 1,180 horsepower and 944 lb-ft (1,280 Nm) of torque and is capable of performing tank turns.

      While there are numerous extravagant SUVs available today, the Yangwang U8 distinguishes itself in a market filled with excess—not only for its remarkable features but also by catching the eye of California Governor Gavin Newsom, who appeared to be genuinely impressed.

      However, BYD's upscale sub-brand felt that the original U8 was not luxurious enough, leading to the introduction of an even longer and more opulent version called the Yangwang U8 L.

      Recent reports from China reveal that the U8 L has a substantial 3,250 mm (127.9-inch) wheelbase, which is an increase of 200 mm (7.8 inches) compared to the base model. This added length accommodates a specialized 2+2+2 seating layout, adding a hint of a private jet experience to everyday commutes or mountain getaways. Unfortunately, Yangwang has yet to release interior images, so we can only speculate about the design of those second-row seats.

      Longer, More Striking, More Luxurious

      There are clear alterations to the exterior of the new flagship U8. For instance, the Yangwang logo on the front grille can be adorned with 24-karat gold, as can the emblem at the back. The design team has also created new 23-inch forged wheels for the U8 L, featuring floating center caps similar to those found on Rolls-Royce vehicles. These new wheels are equipped with wider tires than the standard version.

      At the rear, Yangwang has streamlined the design by eliminating the spare wheel carrier, resulting in a more polished, upscale silhouette that reduces rugged SUV characteristics while enhancing an executive limousine aesthetic.

      Same Performance, Same Unique Features

      Mechanically, the U8 L stays true to its roots. According to reports from Autohome in China, the U8 L shares the same powertrain as the standard U8: it features four electric motors, a 2.0-liter turbocharged range-extender, and a 49.05 kWh battery pack. The performance figures are impressive, delivering 1,180 hp (880 kW) and 944 lb-ft (1,280 Nm) of torque, along with retaining its signature features, such as floating on water and executing tank turns, thanks to each wheel having its own motor.

      Yangwang showcased the U8 L at the recent Shanghai Auto Show, with production slated to begin later this year. Pricing is expected to start around 1.5 million yuan, roughly equivalent to $205,000 at current exchange rates. This is a significant amount for a Chinese-made SUV, but it provides a relative bargain when compared to a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, which starts at over $400,000 in the U.S.

      Although this price tag is considerable for a Chinese-built SUV, it seems like a good deal when juxtaposed with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, especially if you consider gold accents and amphibious capabilities part of an advantageous offer.