Electric carmaker BYD has previewed a new luxury electric SUV from its sub-brand YangWang, which, according to Drive, boasts “Land Rover looks and Ferrari-style performance”.
Related article: Ampol partners with BYD to drive EV uptake
The YangWang U8 features four electric motors capable of producing 820kW of power, which can take it from standstill to 100km/h in a blistering three seconds flat.
While boasting supercar performance, the YangWang U8 is designed as an off-road vehicle and is reportedly capable of amphibious driving thanks to body sealing and IP68-grade waterproofing for its electric motors. BYD also says the U8 can float, and released a video of the vehicle crossing a lake.
The U8 is also capable of doing 380-degree ‘tank turns’ as well as diagonal manoeuvres like the GMC Hummer.
These impressive capabilities come at a cost, with the U8 priced at approximately AU$215,000. Unfortunately, though, the U8 hasn’t been slated for release in Australia.
Related article: South Australia leads on vehicle to grid capability
Luke Todd, managing director of BYD’s Australian distributor EVDirect, told Drive: “At this stage, YangWang is for the Chinese market in [left-hand drive] and there are no immediate plans to bring to Australia.”
