More than 1300 hp
The new BYD Yangwang U7 is a genuine electric supercar disguised as a luxury saloon. Here are the impressive details of its powertrain:
- Four electric motors, one per wheel, for a total power output of over 1,300 bhp (960 kW)
- Maximum torque of around 1584 N-m, for lightning acceleration
- Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds
- A top speed of 270 km/h
This burst of power, combined with a aerodynamics with a Cx of 0.195, promises outstanding road performance for this Chinese electric saloon.
Nominated by Wolfgang Egger
The new BYD Yangwang U7 benefits from the expertise of renowned designer Wolfgang Egger, bringing a touch of elegance and innovation to this top-of-the-range electric saloon. Here are the key points of Egger's design for the BYD Yangwang U7:
- Avant-garde aesthetics: The design of the U7 features an aerodynamic silhouette and flowing lines, reflecting Egger's modern approach.
- Aerodynamic efficiency: The BYD Yangwang U7 boasts an impressive coefficient of drag (Cx) of 0.195, making it one of the most aerodynamic production vehicles in the world.
- An automotive heritage: Egger, with his experience at Audi and Lamborghini, has been able to integrate traditional design elements while adapting them to the electric age.
- Imposing dimensions: With a length of 5.265 metres and a width of 1.998 metres, the U7 imposes its presence on the road while retaining an elegant look.
- Distinctive details: The vehicle features a prominent BYD logo on the front grille, sculpted wings and unique design elements that underline its status as a luxury saloon.
Cutting-edge technology for the BYD Yangwang U7
The BYD Yangwang U7 is positioned as a cutting-edge electric saloon, offering remarkable innovations:
- Powerful engines: The Yangwang U7 is equipped with four electric motors, one per wheel, delivering an impressive total power of over 1,300 bhp (960 kW). This configuration delivers lightning acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds.
- Battery revolutionary: the saloon inaugurates the second generation of BYD's Blade battery, using LFP (lithium iron phosphate) chemistry. This new battery offers exceptional charging performance, with a charge power of up to 5.5C, theoretically allowing the vehicle to go from 10 to 80 % in just 11 minutes.
- Advanced autonomous driving system: The BYD Yangwang U7 is equipped with the TianShen "eye of the gods" system, comprising three lidars, five millimetre-wave radars and thirteen high-definition cameras. This system offers 508 TOPS of computing power, providing L2+ driving assistance capabilities.
- Optimised aerodynamics: Thanks to extensive work on aerodynamics, the Yangwang U7 boasts a remarkable coefficient of drag (Cx) of 0.195, contributing to its energy efficiency.
- Innovative suspension: The DiSus-Z suspension system fitted to the Yangwang U7 recovers energy from suspension movements to recharge the battery, optimising energy consumption.autonomy of the vehicle.
Market launch planned in China, but future in Europe uncertain
The new BYD Yangwang U7, a top-of-the-range electric saloon, is currently destined for the Chinese market, with sales scheduled for the end of 2024. However, its future in Europe remains uncertain for a number of reasons:
- Price: The BYD Yangwang U7 is expected to retail in China at around 1 million yuan (€128,000). This high price could be an obstacle to its introduction on the European market.
- Regulations: Strict European emissions and safety standards could require costly vehicle adaptations.
- Import taxes: Brussels imposes high taxes on Chinese electric vehicles, which could considerably increase the price of the BYD Yangwang U7 in Europe.
- Competition: The luxury electric saloon segment is already highly competitive in Europe, with established players such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
- Brand strategy: BYD may choose to focus on its more affordable models for European expansion, such as the Seal and Seal U, rather than introducing its luxury Yangwang brand.
Despite these challenges, BYD's presence at the Geneva Motor Show with its Denza and Yangwang brands suggests an interest in the European market. The future of the BYD Yangwang U7 in Europe will therefore depend on the Chinese manufacturer's overall strategy and its ability to adapt to the demands of the European market. To be continued.
| Caractéristiques | Détails |
|---|---|
Capacity | 2nd generation Blade battery (LFP) with charging power up to 5.5C |
Power | 4 electric motors, total power > 1300 hp (960 kW), maximum torque 1584 N-m |
Autonomy | Not specified, but optimised thanks to aerodynamics (Cx = 0.195) and the DiSus-Z suspension system |
Release date | End of 2024 in China |
Volume/dimensions | Length: 5.265 m; Width: 1.998 m; Height not specified |
Prices | Around 1 million yuan (€128,000) in China |
Conclusion
The BYD Yangwang U7 is a luxury electric saloon with some very interesting qualities, combining elegant design by Wolfgang Egger with impressive performance. With four electric motors delivering more than 1,300 hp, blistering acceleration and cutting-edge technology, it embodies BYD's ambition to rival established premium manufacturers.
However, despite its undeniable strengths, its future on the European market remains uncertain, mainly due to the challenges associated with regulations, import taxes and BYD's branding strategy. The planned launch in China at the end of 2024 will be a crucial test of the potential of this revolutionary electric saloon on the international stage.
