BYD Yangwang U8 luxury SUV launch in Australia delayed

With examples being shown off in Australian showrooms and right-hand drive test cars on local roads, the local launch for BYD's Yangwang U8 luxury SUV is not imminent.

The managing director and executive chairman of BYD's local distributor, EVDirect, Luke Todd, stated, "U8 is not on the agenda for the foreseeable future, but what is on the agenda is the launch of Denza."

According to Todd, the U8 being tested will eventually come to Australia, but it may take a few years, while highlighting that there are strong products coming from the Denza brand.

When asked about local Yangwang U8 sightings, BYD's Asia-Pacific boss Liu Xueliang explained through an interpreter that vehicles are tested here before launch to ensure suitability for local conditions. "We'll make a lot of preparations. Before Shark 6 launched in Australia, we already started to test the Shark 6 in Australia," said Mr Liu.

Moreover, he emphasised the importance of fitting the needs of Australian customers. "So for all the models that BYD wants to bring to Australia, we want to make sure that it meets the driving occasions in Australia... and also meet the needs of our customers," Mr Liu added.

While the Yangwang U8 local launch isn't scheduled soon, BYD will roll out its premium Denza brand in Australia during 2025.

Denza, which debuted in 2012, consists entirely of plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, including various models such as the Z9 sedan and the D9 people mover.

The Fangchengbao brand, producing boxy off-roaders, and Yangwang, the most prestigious of the brands, are also growing BYD's line-up.

Mr Todd confirmed that the Fangchengbao brand name won't appear in the Australian market but refrained from disclosing Denza's local lineup.

Despite previous interest from the Australian distributor in bringing the U8 to Australia, no confirmation has been made regarding its arrival. Reports suggest Yangwang may begin right-hand drive sales of the U8 elsewhere this year.

The U8 measures 5319mm long, 2050mm wide, and 1930mm tall on a 3050mm wheelbase, ranking it larger than models such as the Toyota LandCruiser and luxury SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

As an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV), the U8 features four electric motors generating up to 880kW of power, achieving a 0-100km/h time of 3.6 seconds, and a driving range of over 1000km combined.

Commencing price in China for the U8 stands at RMB 1,089,000, translating to almost 240000 AUD, while BYD's most costly vehicle in Australia is the Seal Performance, starting from 61990 AUD before on-road costs.