RHD BYD YangWang U8 Spotted - Malaysian Market Launch Soon?

The right-hand drive (RHD) iteration of the BYD YangWang U8 has been spotted near BYD’s factory in Xi’an, China. This perhaps indicates that export to RHD markets may soon begin.

Earlier indications suggest the Yangwang U8 could be heading to Australia and Europe. The YangWang U8 had also made an appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, hinting at a potential entry into the UK market.

The RHD version of the YangWang U8 closely mirrors the Chinese domestic model, with the main difference seemingly only at the repositioning of the steering wheel. It is important to also note that despite its massive size, the U8 is available only as a five-seat luxury SUV.

Now while BYD is renowned for its plug-in hybrid (PHEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs) globally, the YangWang U8 is exclusively offered as an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV), where the 2.0-litre turbo engine functions solely as a generator and doesn’t directly power the wheels.

Said 2.0-litre turbo range extender petrol engine generates 200 kW (268HP) of power, while each of the four wheels is driven by an independent motor delivering 220 kW (295 HP) and 320 NM, resulting in a combined output of 880 kW (1,180 HP) and 1280 NM of torque.

Additionally, each motor can also be independently controlled, enabling the YangWang U8 to execute moves such as tank turns and emergency floating. The YangWang U8 will pack BYD’s proprietary LFP blade battery with a 49.05 kWh capacity, providing an all-electric range of 148 KM with a total driving range of 820 KM WLTP.

The said LFP pack unit can be DC fast-charged at an impressive rate of 110 kW, however the AC charging speed is typically capped at just 7 kW only.

On the tech front, the YangWang U8 is equipped with three Lidar sensors, 5MM-wave radars, 12 cameras, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, all delivering highly advanced L2 ADAS intelligent driving and off-road capabilities.

Inside, the YangWang U8 will feature BYD’s signature a rotating 23.6-inch infotainment screen, a 12.8-inch curved instrument display, and a spacious, high-tech cabin.

Notably, with the upcoming launch of BYD’s premium sub-brand Denza in Q1 2025 in Malaysia, the YangWang U8 could serve as an excellent follow-up. This strategy would allow BYD to offer products catering to different income categories under distinct brand names, similar to the approach long adopted by Japanese automakers.

Also, by positioning Denza for the premium segment and introducing the YangWang U8 as a luxury offering, BYD can cover a wide spectrum of the market, appealing to various customer bases and strengthening its presence in Malaysia.

In China, the YangWang U8 is priced from RMB1,089,000 (RM665,000).