Chinese automaker BYD’s luxury sub-brand, Yangwang, has officially entered the high-performance electric sedan segment with a groundbreaking model that rivals supercars in speed and specs—without the stratospheric price tag.
Unveiled this week, the new Yangwang U7 boasts a jaw-dropping 1,287 horsepower, 1,239 lb-ft of torque, and a claimed 0-62 mph time of just 2.9 seconds. The electric sedan is priced at roughly $86,000 at current exchange rates, setting a new benchmark for value in the high-performance EV market.
The U7 achieves its astonishing performance via four individual electric motors, one at each wheel. Despite weighing in at a hefty 6,800 pounds, the car’s 167 mph top speed and advanced suspension system suggest it’s no slouch in dynamic driving. The vehicle measures 207.3 inches long, putting it in the luxury sedan category.
Powering the U7 is a 135.5 kWh battery, delivering up to 447 miles of range under China’s CLTC cycle. Real-world range will likely be lower under the EPA standard. Charging is quick, with the battery able to jump from 30 to 80 percent in under 20 minutes using fast-charging.
For those seeking hybrid flexibility, Yangwang will offer a plug-in hybrid version pairing a 52.4 kWh battery and 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, good for a 621-mile total range.
Inside, the U7 oozes tech and luxury: Nappa leather, massaging seats, individual entertainment screens, rear-seat foldout tables, a mini fridge, and a 23-speaker audio system. The U7 also debuts BYD’s DiSus-Z active suspension and God’s Eye driver-assist system featuring three lidars and 13 cameras.
Although the U7 will likely remain exclusive to China, its specs make it a powerful statement in the global EV arms race.