Chinese carmaker BYD plans to conquer the European market with its luxury brand Yangwang

Chinese automotive group BYD launches its luxury brand Yangwang. In particular, it will present its impressive luxury electric SUV, the U8, at the Geneva Motor Show, scheduled for late February 2024. BYD, already the world leader in electric cars, is stepping up its commitment to the European market.

BYD announced on Thursday its intention to enter the European market with its luxury brand Yangwang, launching its impressive luxury electric SUV, the U8. The automaker will present its model at the Geneva Motor Show, scheduled from February 26 to March 3, 2024 at Geneva’s Palexpo.

Already number one worldwide for electric cars in the fourth quarter of 2023, BYD is now ahead of Tesla thanks to its strong performance in the Chinese market.

Despite regulatory challenges and subsidy conditions in Europe, the Chinese automaker persists in its commitment to this market. The group, which sold around ten thousand cars in Europe in 2023, plans to open a car plant in Hungary in three years’ time, where it already assembles electric buses.

The Chinese automaker, which will have a 1,000 m2 stand at the Geneva Motor Show, is focusing on hybrid powertrains and luxury, with the launch of its ultra-premium Yangwang brand. With an impressive power output of almost 1,200 hp, the U8 promises an exceptional driving experience. This 4X4 stands out in particular for its E4 technology platform, which integrates four independent electric motors in each wheel, while another combustion engine recharges its batteries. In addition, the model is equipped with the intelligent DiSus-P system, which guarantees incomparable performance and safety.

The U8 is equipped with unique features such as differential steering for agile maneuvering (the SUV can turn on itself). But most surprising of all is its ability to…float on water! All these “Jamesbondian” criteria place the U8 in direct competition with market heavyweights such as Land Rover and Mercedes.