You'll Require Deep Pockets for China's Largest YangWang, Capable of Shaming a Veyron | Carscoops

      A high-tech luxury SUV from China boasts 1,180 hp, can traverse water, and features a cabin filled with screens and comfort.

      22 hours ago

      by Brad Anderson

      BYD’s YangWang U8L is 14.6 inches (372 mm) longer than the standard variant.

      All configurations include the DiPilot 600 system and three LiDAR sensors as standard features.

      The U8L retains the water-fording capabilities of the shorter version.

      The spacious, long, and luxurious YangWang U8L from BYD has officially launched in China, and by local standards, this range-extending SUV is relatively pricey. However, compared to the costs typically seen in the United States and other Western markets for premium SUVs, it still appears to be quite a deal.

      First unveiled a few months ago, the U8L closely resembles the standard U8 introduced a few years ago, with one major distinction: it is significantly longer.

      Read: China Requested a Longer YangWang, and BYD Delivered

      The body has been extended by 14.6 inches (372 mm), and the wheelbase has increased by 7.8 inches (200 mm). The starting price is 1,300,000 yuan, approximately $181,000 at current exchange rates. Prospective buyers can reserve one with a deposit of 20,000 yuan, around $2,790.

      A Tech-Heavy Flagship

      As the flagship luxury model in the YangWang lineup, the U8L serves as an alternative to the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan for Chinese consumers who prefer domestic options. Although it may not compete as effectively in terms of quality or prestige, it features technology that surpasses any European competitor.

      For instance, the U8L comes equipped with BYD’s DiPilot 600 autonomous driving capabilities, which includes three LiDAR sensors and a Navigate On Autopilot feature for highways and urban roads.

      It also features standard carbon ceramic brakes, YangWang’s innovative Disus-P hydraulic suspension system, and shares the same wade mode as the standard version, allowing it to float and drive through water.

      Comfort and Screens in Every Row

      Inside the cabin, the U8L is offered exclusively as a 2+2+2 layout, prioritizing passenger comfort and technology. It includes a 23.6-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver, a 12.8-inch central infotainment display, and another 23.6-inch screen for the front passenger. Both first- and second-row seats are equipped with heating, ventilation, massage functions, and additional heated armrests for enhanced comfort.

      Power in Abundance

      The powertrain mirrors that of the shorter YangWang U8. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, four electric motors, and a 49.05 kWh battery pack, delivering an impressive 1,180 hp (880 kW) and 944 lb-ft (1,280 Nm) of torque. For comparison, this output exceeds that of the original Bugatti Veyron (2005-2015), which produced 987 hp from an 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W16. Quite noteworthy indeed.

      Will many Chinese consumers be willing to invest in an extended YangWang? That remains to be seen; however, as reported by CarNewsChina, YangWang’s sales have plummeted by approximately 500 percent compared to the first half of last year, indicating that the brand may face challenges in sustaining its momentum.