BYD's $300,000 Electric Sedan Targets Luxury Buyers in the UAE
The automaker is launching its most expensive model in the Middle East to compete with established luxury brands.
By Miguel Hernandez ·
BYD is preparing to launch its most expensive electric vehicle in the United Arab Emirates. The move marks a significant shift for the Chinese automaker, which is traditionally known for affordable cars. General manager Hu Xiaoqing confirmed this week that the global debut will happen in the UAE rather than China. The company has not yet announced a specific date for the event.
The new sedan is designed to be the largest and most luxurious model in the BYD lineup. Its size and shape are comparable to a Rolls-Royce Phantom. This positions the car directly against premium brands like Bentley and Mercedes-Maybach. It is a notable step for a company that sells small hatchbacks like the Seagull for under $10,000 in China.
BYD has expanded its product range significantly in recent years. The brand now offers everything from entry-level electric cars to three-row SUVs and pickup trucks. It operates several sub-brands, including Denza, FangChengBao, and Yangwang. The Yangwang line sits at the top of this hierarchy and showcases the company's newest technology.
Previous Yangwang models used a quad-motor platform that produces 1,300 horsepower. These vehicles featured a body control system that allowed them to jump or drive on three wheels. Hu shared images of the new sedan undergoing tests last month. Although the car was covered in camouflage, it appeared to match the size of a Maybach S-Class. Local reports suggest the vehicle is about 5,500 mm long.
Executive general manager Zheng Yu stated that the car will feature unprecedented disruptive technology. He did not provide specific details. However, the sedan was photographed at a BYD flash charging station. This suggests it supports megawatt charging. The car also features rear-hinged coach doors, a first for the brand. It is reportedly the first BYD model to use solid-state batteries.
Executive vice president Stella Li told Carwow.es last month that the first solid-state battery vehicle would debut in 2027. The new sedan is expected to make its official appearance this month. Rumors suggest the starting price will be around 2 million yuan. This is roughly $300,000. This price point is well above the current Yangwang U7 sedan, which starts at $98,000. It also exceeds the price of the U8L SUV, the brand's most expensive current model.
Source: Electrek
