Yangwang U8 is a high-performance, ultra-luxury off-road SUV from BYD that primarily competes with elite off-roaders
Right-hand drive (RHD) versions of the Yangwang U8 are expected to begin arriving in international markets between late 2025 and 2026.
Interestingly, this BYD Yangwang U8 luxury SUV has been on sale in the Chinese market since late 2023. It features four electric motors with a total output of 1197 hp, a range-extending 2.0-liter engine, a 1000 km range (CLTC), and unique “tank turn” and emergency floating capability.
While BYD has not provided a single global release date, the following timelines have been reported for key RHD markets.
Australia: Deliveries are anticipated by the end of 2025 or early 2026. RHD test vehicles have already been spotted undergoing local testing.
Malaysia: A launch is expected as a follow-up to BYD’s premium Denza brand, which is debuting in Q1 2025.
United Kingdom: Reports indicate RHD versions are “locked in” for a UK arrival starting in 2027.
Meanwhile, RHD models are already in production at BYD’s Xi’an factory in China. Left-hand drive (LHD) versions have been touring RHD markets like Australia and the UK (at the Goodwood Festival of Speed) to gauge interest and demonstrate features like the tank turn and emergency flotation.
In China, the U8 retails for approximately RMB1,098,000 (roughly AU$220,000 or RM 700,000+), positioning it as a direct luxury competitor to the Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
Performance & Tech Specs
This U8 is often referred to as the “King of SUVs, with its 1,200 HP from a four-motor e⁴ Platform, allowing for 0–100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, an Emergency Floatation System that allows the vehicle to float and navigate water at 3 km/h for up to 30 minutes, plus its capable of 360° tank turns on the spot by rotating individual wheels in opposite directions.
Typically its selling price starts around USD154,000 to USD180,000 USD (approximately 1.1 million RMB) depending on the market and edition.
The immediate rivals for the U8 starts with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class (and G580 with EQ Technology). The G-Wagon is considered its most direct luxury rival in the hardcore off-road market. The all-electric G580 (formerly EQG) specifically competes with the U8’s quad-motor setup and “tank turn” capabilities.
Then there is the Land Rover Defender, which is frequently cited as a benchmark for the U8’s off-road performance and rugged design.
Lets not forget the Range Rover which has its sights on the same high-end demographic looking for a blend of extreme off-road capability and executive-level luxury.
Last but not least is the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series which competes in terms of size and off-road reputation, though the U8 is significantly more expensive and tech-heavy.
