BYD is set to unveil its latest electric supercar, the YangWang U9, on February 25. This vehicle boasts an impressive acceleration from 0-100 km/h in under 2.0 seconds, thanks to its advanced DiSus-X body control system, which also enables it to perform tank turns, jump, and even drive on three wheels.
YangWang, BYD’s high-end electric vehicle brand, introduced its first model, the U8 hard-core SUV, with deliveries starting in December 2023 at a price of 1,089,000 yuan (approximately $150,000). The U8 saw around 1,600 units delivered in China in January alone. BYD now aims to extend its reach beyond China with the U9, its most luxurious model to date, which may undergo a name change for international markets due to the second part of the YangWang name’s unintended meanings in English.
The YangWang U9 features four electric motors, each delivering 240 kW for a combined output of 960 kW (1,287 hp), and is capable of reaching a top speed of 300 km/h. Contrary to expectations for a vehicle of its class, it utilizes BYD’s Blade battery with LFP chemistry instead of the more costly ternary (NMC) batteries.
Designed as a two-door coupe, the U9 is built on the new e4 platform, measuring 4966/2029/1295 mm with a 2900 mm wheelbase, comparable in length to the Audi A4 or BMW 5 Series. It features optional carbon fibre rear spoilers and rides on 275/35 R21 (front) & 325/30 R21 (rear) wheels. The U9 also boasts scissor doors and, as showroom images reveal, a surprisingly large boot space.
Inside, the U9 opts for a more traditional BYD design, with a somewhat spartan interior that contrasts sharply with its futuristic exterior. The steering wheel is laden with physical buttons, accompanied by two prominent stalks. In an era where Chinese EV manufacturers compete over the size and number of in-car screens, the U9 takes a modest approach with just three screens: two small ones for the driver and passenger, and a uniquely shaped one on the centre console, giving the interior a throwback feel to the 2010s.
In a departure from its usual dealership model, BYD has opened about 80 directly operated YangWan stores across China in 2023, with plans for further expansion. The brand has also begun occupying retail spaces formerly held by luxury car brands such as BMW, Aston Martin, and Mercedes-Benz, opening its first 22 stores in major cities including Shanghai and Beijing.
The application for a sales license for the U9 was submitted in December, signalling an imminent launch. While the price remains under wraps, it is expected to be announced at the upcoming launch event. BYD’s invitation to the event hints that the “U” in U9 stands for “Ultimat“, a departure from earlier assumptions that it referred to “UP”, based on the YangWang brand’s Chinese name, which translates to “Look-Up“.
