BYD promoted a demonstration of resistance with the Yangwang U8L, a long wheelbase version of its luxury SUV. Engenheiros from the Chinese company dropped a two-ton palm tree onto the roof of the vehicle on three consecutive occasions. The maximum impact recorded was 50.4 kilojoules in the last fall.
The SUV maintained its structure intact after the impacts. The doors opened normally, the windows remained uncracked and the roof pillars did not suffer critical deformation. The vehicle ran without difficulties immediately after the test.
The palm tree was positioned vertically and released from progressively greater heights. Essa action highlighted the body’s ability to absorb high forces.
- The Yangwang U8L is 5.4 meters long, 2.05 meters wide and 1.92 meters high.
- These measurements place it above rivals such as the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and elongated Range Rover.
- The launch price at China starts at 1.28 million yuan, equivalent to around R$1 million.
Executing the resistance test
Engineers lifted the palm tree with a crane and dropped it directly onto the roof. In the third fall, the trunk partially broke upon contact. The absorbed energy reached 50.4 kJ.
The top sidebar showed only light marks. There were no damages to the suspension and wheelset. The panoramic sunroof maintained full integrity.
The test reinforces the construction with high-strength steels. BYD uses this approach to demonstrate superior durability in the luxury segment.
Hybrid propulsion system
The Yangwang U8L adopts EREV configuration with four electric motors. A 2.0 turbo gasoline engine works exclusively as a generator for the batteries.
Pure electric range reaches 200 km in the CLTC cycle. With the extender activated, the combined range reaches 1,160 km.
Total power exceeds 1,180 horsepower. The SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4 seconds despite weighing 3.6 tons.
The Blade battery pack prioritizes impact safety. Fast recharging recovers most of the capacity in a few minutes.
Special handling capabilities
The model incorporates advanced traction functions.
- Tank swivel rotates 360 degrees on its own axis.
- Crab mode allows lateral or diagonal displacement.
- Emergency buoyancy keeps the vehicle afloat for up to 30 minutes in water.
These features utilize independent control of each wheel. The system includes sensors for assistance in difficult terrain.
Spacious interior and premium finish
The 3.25 meter wheelbase guarantees generous space in the second row. The internal configuration follows a 2+2+2 layout for six occupants. The trunk offers more than 1,100 liters of capacity.
High-standard materials and high acoustic insulation make up the cabin. Telas multiplex and premium sound system equip all versions.
Seats have heating, ventilation and massage. Portas with soft closing and ambient lighting reinforce the executive character.
Positioning in the luxury segment
BYD launched the U8L in September 2025 as an extended option for the Yangwang U8. The model competes directly with SUVs imported from European brands in the Chinese market.
The brand invests in public tests to demonstrate robust engineering. Pillars A, B and C supported the load without collapsing. The doors opened effortlessly even after repeated impacts.
The structure efficiently absorbs energy in extreme situations. Engenheiros documented each phase to validate resistance calculations.
