At Auto Shanghai 2025, BYD’s luxury sub-brand, Yangwang, officially introduced the U8L, an expanded version of the U8 Luxury Edition. The U8L enters the full-size executive SUV segment with a larger body, a new seating configuration, and enhanced features, putting it far ahead of the likes of Range Rover and even Rolls-Royce.
Expanded Dimensions and Seating
The Yangwang U8L features a stretched wheelbase, extended by 200mm to 3250mm, contributing to an overall length of 5400mm — an 81mm increase compared to the U8 Luxury Edition. It maintains a width of 2049mm and a height of 1921mm.
The larger dimensions accommodate a three-row, six-seat layout, with a particular focus on improving comfort for third-row passengers. Yangwang notes that the U8L’s length exceeds that of competitors such as the Range Rover and Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
Design Updates
While retaining the U8’s signature front design inspired by the ancient Chinese “Ding” cauldron, the U8L introduces a two-tone “Obsidian Black / Sunstone Gold” paint option. Both the front and rear Yangwang badges, as well as the steering wheel emblem, can be finished in 24K gold upon request. The U8L rides on new 23-inch forged alloy wheels featuring an eight-hole design aimed at balancing aesthetics and aerodynamic efficiency.
At the rear, the U8L differentiates itself by eliminating the external spare tire, adopting a vertically split, power-operated tailgate. This design requires less space to open the upper section, while the lower section can support up to 200 kilograms, making it functional for outdoor seating or other activities. The SUV retains the U8’s segmented taillight design, and the rear bumper has been simplified.
Platform and Powertrain
The U8L continues to utilize Yangwang’s e⁴ Platform, enabling quad-motor independent torque vectoring, and the DiSus-P intelligent hydraulic body control system. As a result, it maintains capabilities such as emergency flotation in water, stable driving after a tire puncture, and a 360-degree tank turn.
Power is provided by a range-extender electric vehicle (EREV) system, where a 2.0T internal combustion engine operates as a generator, supplying energy to four electric motors. Combined, the motors deliver 880 kW (approximately 1180 horsepower) and 1280 Nm of torque, which is far more than the Range Rover.
Technology Features
The U8L is equipped with the “God’s Eye A” (DiPilot 300) advanced driver assistance system. Featuring a three-LiDAR configuration, it supports highway and urban Navigate on Autopilot (NOA), automated parking, remote parking, and integration with the e⁴ parking system.
Market Positioning
Yangwang positions the U8L alongside the U8, targeting the large luxury SUV segment typically dominated by chauffeur-driven and family-oriented vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS. The U8L aims to offer an alternative within China’s premium SUV market.
The Yangwang U8L is expected to go on sale in China later this year. International availability is not yet known.
