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BYD Targets 5,500 Millimeter Electric Sedan for UAE Debut

The Chinese automaker plans to introduce its largest and most expensive vehicle in the Middle East, with a price tag estimated at $300,000.

By Zanele Khumalo ·

The new BYD flagship is reported to measure approximately 5,500 millimeters, or 216 inches, in length. This massive dimension places the upcoming sedan in direct competition with the world's most exclusive luxury automobiles. The vehicle is designed to rival the physical presence of the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Such a size is unprecedented for a car coming from a manufacturer historically defined by budget friendly options. The scale signals a major strategic shift for the brand.

BYD general manager Hu Xiaoqing confirmed that the global launch will occur in the United Arab Emirates rather than in China. The company has not yet announced a specific calendar date for the reveal. However, the sedan is expected to make its official debut this month. The choice of location highlights the brand's focus on high net worth markets. The UAE serves as a key hub for ultra luxury automotive sales in the region.

The model is aimed squarely at established luxury marques like Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Mercedes-Maybach. This is a notable step for a company best known for affordable vehicles. The BYD Seagull, a small hatchback, sells for under $10,000 in China. The new flagship represents the top of the company's hierarchy. It sits under the Yangwang sub-brand, which showcases the newest technologies. The brand also includes Denza and FangChengBao, alongside the Dynasty and Ocean families.

Earlier Yangwang models utilized a quad-motor e4 platform that delivers 1,300 horsepower. Those vehicles also featured the DiSus-X intelligent body control system. This technology allows a vehicle to perform dynamic maneuvers such as jumping. The new sedan is expected to build on this technological foundation. Executive general manager Zheng Yu stated that the car will feature unprecedented disruptive technology. He did not provide specific details on the mechanical or software features included in the package.

Recent test images suggest the vehicle may support megawatt flash charging. The car was displayed at a BYD Flash Charging station during testing. It also features rear-hinged coach doors, a first for the manufacturer. Reports indicate it is the first model to use the company's solid-state batteries. Executive vice president Stella Li told Carwow.es that the first solid-state battery vehicle would debut in 2027. This timeline aligns with the expected launch window for the new sedan.

Rumored pricing starts in the 2 million yuan range, which is approximately $300,000. This price point places the sedan well above current Yangwang offerings. The U7 electric sedan starts at 658,000 yuan, or $98,000. The lineup includes the U8 and U8L plug-in hybrid luxury off-road SUVs. The U9 electric super-coupe is also part of the family. The extended U8L is currently the brand's highest-priced mass-produced vehicle, starting at 1.45 million yuan, or $217,000.

Source: Electrek

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