Regarding high-performance luxury vehicles, most people assume six-figure price tags and badges from Germany or Italy. But now a Chinese manufacturer is challenging that expectation. Starting under $90,000, the new electric super sedan from BYD’s luxury line, the Yangwang U7, boasts an incredible 1,287 horsepower.
Indeed, fairly.
Already on sale in China, the U7 is causing stirs worldwide. This comprehensive look at what it is, who built it, what technology it uses, and whether it will ever reach the US.
Yangwang is someone?
Launched by BYD, one of the biggest electric vehicle producers worldwide, Yangwang is a luxury brand set for 2023. BYD is China’s top EV manufacturer and recently overtook Tesla in global sales volume. Yangwang is the ultra-premium subbrand of BYD, positioned above its current brands, Denza included.
The name “Yangwang” roughly translates to “aspiration” or “looking up,” and that’s the concept—luxury cars aiming high and challenging the best automakers in performance, style, and innovation worldwide.
Yangwang U7: Super Sedan Luxury
Yangwang’s second model, the U7, is already drawing criticism for its performance numbers, luxury aspirations, and technologically forward approach following the U8 SUV.
Two Versions: Electric and Plug-in Hybrid
The Yangwang U7 is offered in two different drivetrains:
Four motors—one at each wheel—of the fully electric (BEV) model generate a total of 1,287 horsepower. In just 2.9 seconds it can strike 0–62 mph (100 km/h).
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): This version pairs a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with the electric system. The gas engine acts only as a generator. The PHEV boasts a total range of roughly 1,000 km (ca. 621 mi miles) and a 200km (ca. 124 mi mile) all-electric range.
Starting Value
Starting at almost ¥600,000 in China, the U7 comes out to be less than $90,000. Comparatively, most vehicles running this type of power are double or triple that cost. The Tesla Model S Plaid and Lucid Air Sapphire are the closest competitors in terms of performance—and both are pricier.
Platforms and technology
Yangwang takes advantage of BYD’s own e⁴ platform, which supports a special capability: individual wheel drive (IWD). Because every wheel is separately driven and controlled, exact traction, torque vectoring, and improved handling are made possible. Usually reserved for race cars and ultra-high-end vehicles is this degree of control.
The DiSus-Z active suspension system is another novelty. The system can change ride height, milliseconds of absorption for bumps, and even create energy from suspension motion. That’s right—it charges the battery from suspension travel.
The U7 also features an extensive driver-assistance system sometimes referred to as “God’s Eye. It comprises several LiDAR systems, millimeter-wave radar, high-resolution cameras, and processing derived from Orin X chips from Nvidia. Despite not being fully autonomous yet, its design allows for future semi-autonomous capabilities.
aerodynamics and scale
The U7 is slick, long, and broad. It measures over 5.2 meters in length and almost 2 meters in width. With an ultra-low drag coefficient of just 0.195 Cd, it helps to increase efficiency and high-speed capability despite its weight. Though minimal, the design language is elegant and more futuristic than flashy.
Interior and Comfort
Though early previews show a roomy, simple cabin with premium materials, advanced screens, ambient lighting, and a big glass roof, interior details haven’t been officially revealed. Expect upfront a concentration on driver-centered ergonomics and limousine-level rear seat comfort.
Will the Yangwang U7 visit America?
Now, no. Publicly, BYD has said it has no intention of introducing passenger cars to the US. On the other hand, it is apparently considering building a manufacturing plant in Mexico, which would offer a strategic path into North America down the road.
Therefore, even if the U7 won’t be available in U.S. dealerships this year, it might still be possible in the future—especially if American EV demand spikes again.
How It Means Comparatively
Yangwang U7 (EV): 1,287 hp, 0–60 in 2.9 sec, ~300 mi (ca. 483 km) range, ~$86,500
1,020 hp, 0–60 in 1.99 s, 396 mi range, ~$90,000 Tesla Model S Plaid
1,234 hp, 0–60 in 1.9 sec, 427 mi (ca. 687 km) range, ~$249,000 Lucid Air Sapphire
Mercedes EQS 580: 0–60 in 4.1 sec, 340 mi (ca. 547 km) range, ~$127,000, 516 hp
Last Words
The Yangwang U7 is a bold statement about how luxury and innovation might coexist without the sky-high price tag, not just about power. This car boasts more horsepower than anything short of a hypercar, boasts advanced tech under the hood, and commands attention for a price under $90,000.
While it’s still only available in China, the U7 hints at the future of global electric luxury—one where traditional powerhouses face real competition from emerging brands.
Observe Yangwang closely. They are just beginning their journey.
