BYD's Yangwang U8 production begins

The first production models of the BYD Yangwang U8, an electric SUV under BYD's premium Yangwang brand, have started rolling off the factory line, marking a significant milestone for the new brand.

Officially launched on September 20, the Yangwang U8 has already generated over 30,000 orders - a clear indication of the market's enthusiasm for this luxury electric SUV. This high demand could be attributed to its unique blend of off-road prowess and advanced technology.

The U8, priced at approximately RMB 1.098 million (just over $150,000), is assembled at a BYD production site in Xi'an, Shaanxi province. It’s an all-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with quad electric motors, delivering a combined output of a staggering 880 kW (1,197 hp). The U8 accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.6 seconds, despite its house-like dimensions and substantial weight.

The U8 is a range extender electric vehicle (EREV), featuring a 2.0L turbo internal combustion engine (ICE) that functions solely to charge its 49.05 kWh Blade battery. This LFP battery enables a range of 112 miles on a single charge, which extends to over 620 miles with a full {{75 L}} fuel tank.

BYD has fitted the U8 with a Disus-P suspension system and an Nvidia Drive Orin System on a Chip (SoC), capable of 508 TOPS computational power. It processes data from 38 sensors, including three lidars. The SUV supports DC fast charging up to 110 kW, allowing a quick recharge time of 30-80% in just 18 minutes.

The Yangwang U8 also boasts impressive off-road capabilities, including the ability to float on water for 30 minutes and execute a 360° tank turn. Yangwang plans to launch two versions of the U8 - the Premium Edition and the Off-road Master Edition, with the latter offering more room for modifications. Additionally, the brand is set to expand its lineup with the upcoming U9 and U6 models.

Differing from BYD's traditional dealer sales model, Yangwang has adopted a direct sales approach for the U8. Over 22 stores have already opened for trial operations in major Chinese cities, with plans to expand to more than 90 directly managed stores across over 40 cities by year-end.

Via