Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD, renowned worldwide for its budget-friendly cars, has now set its sights on the luxury sports car market.
Introducing the Yangwang U9, with a hefty price tag exceeding £183,000 ($233,000), poised to rival esteemed brands like Ferrari upon its summer release.
But don’t underestimate BYD — officials at Lamborghini, Tesla, and others should take note. The company has a track record of capturing market share.
BBC reported that BYD outsold industry giant Tesla in the final quarter of 2023, thanks in part to models like the Dolphin, now available for under £11,000 ($14,000) in international markets. This reflects the growing electric vehicle sector, driving us towards a cleaner transportation future.
While the U9 won’t initially hit U.S. markets, according to Fortune, initial releases will be exclusive to China as BYD introduces its new “supercar.”
Sleek and stylish, the U9 boasts a mean aesthetic with sharp angles and a low, sleek profile. Performance-wise, it doesn’t disappoint, clocking in at a top speed of 192 mph and accelerating from zero to 62 mph in just 2.36 seconds, as per BYD.
Inside, the U9 sports a modern design, complete with all the high-tech features you’d expect, including two 14-way adjustable seats and a premium audio system.
Described by the company as “street savvy and playful,” the U9 also impresses in terms of efficiency, boasting a range of approximately 289 miles. The lithium-iron phosphate battery can recharge from 30% to 80% in just 10 minutes, according to TheStreet.
A captivating video clip showcases the U9’s dazzling light show and agile manoeuvres, drawing the attention of onlookers eager to capture the spectacle on their phones. It features a mode that allows the vehicle to “jump, shake, and dance” to pre-programmed songs, reports TheStreet.
With the Dolphin, U9, and other models potentially hitting roads outside of China, competitors should be prepared for stiff competition.
“I think they will have significant success outside of China depending on what kind of tariffs or trade barriers are established,” remarked Tesla CEO Elon Musk. “Frankly, I think if there are not trade barriers established, they will pretty much demolish most other companies in the world,” he added in TheStreet’s report from a recent earnings call.
