BYD’s Yangwang has introduced the luxurious new U8 Premium Edition in China.
The body-on-frame SUV follows in the footsteps of the standard U8 and features a Defender-ish exterior with 20- or 22-inch wheels. BYD didn’t go into many specifics, but we can see a ‘floating’ roof, flush-mounted door handles, and an octagonal spare tire cover.
Moving inside, BYD said there are 23.6-inch displays for the driver and front passenger. While they look far smaller than that, they’re joined by a 12.8-inch infotainment system with a portrait orientation. We can also see a dual screen rear entertainment system and a display integrated into the second-row armrest.
More: BYD’s New YangWang U8 Is A Defender-Style Electric Off-Roader With Over 1,100 HP
Putting screens aside, the U8 Premium Edition has Nappa leather seats and Sapele wood trim. They’re joined by three high-speed wireless smartphone chargers, a starlit sunroof, and a 22-speaker premium audio system. Other highlights include a 70-inch augmented reality head-up display, seats with a “10-point matrix hot stone massage” function, a fragrance diffuser, and a refrigerator that can apparently run for 12 hours after the vehicle is shut off.
The SUV has four electric motors that produce a combined output of 1,184 hp (883 kW / 1,200 PS). This enables the model to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in a mere 3.6 seconds.
Unfortunately, the impressive specs aren’t universal as the U8 has a so-so 110 kW DC fast charging capability. However, BYD said the battery can go from a 30% to an 80% charge in as little as 18 minutes. The model also has a vehicle-to-load capability and a CLTC range of up to 621 miles (1,000 km).
Other highlights include tank turns, “tire blowout stabilization,” and an adjustable suspension that can be raised to provide an extra 5.9 inches (150 mm) of ground clearance. The company also said that “in extreme conditions, such as flash floods or off-road water obstacles, the U8 Premium Edition can remain afloat for up to 30 minutes, maintaining stability and control for swift evasion.”
The U8 Premium Edition is equipped with 38 sensors including three LiDAR units, five millimeterwave radars, 14 ultrasonic sensors, and 16 cameras. This enables the model to have Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Parking Assist, and Automated Valet Parking. BYD went on to say Highway Driving Assist and City Navigation Autopilot will be available through future over-the-air updates.
Deliveries are slated to begin next month and pricing begins at ¥1,098,000 ($150,666 / £121,388 / €140,377).
