BYD Yangwang U8 has remarkable emergency floating function that would save lives in floods

The BYD Yangwang U8 made waves (quite literally so) when it was introduced, thanks to its ingenious emergency floating function.

This luxury SUV from the Chinese carmaker’s high-end sub-brand doesn’t just drive through water either; it can actually float for up to 30 minutes.

This turns the car from an off-roader to lifeboat in seconds, allowing it to genuinely save lives when the road disappears under water.

It’s not a gimmick or a wild prototype either; it’s a production-ready vehicle built for real-world emergencies.

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The floating function is for emergencies only

So, what’s behind this remarkable trick?

When the driver activates ‘Yachting Mode’, the BYD Yangwang U8 automatically raises its suspension, shuts down the engine, and closes the windows.

It will then open the sunroof, just in case an emergency escape is needed.

Once afloat, it can cruise forward at about 1.8mph, and even rotate its wheels for steering.

The car can even perform a 360-degree tank turn, on both land and water.

BYD insists the emergency floating function isn’t meant for showing off or river-hopping on weekends, but that hasn’t stopped people from trying.

Instead, it’s designed purely for emergency scenarios, such as flash floods or accidents where the car ends up in deep water.

The system relies on IP68-level waterproofing, and the vehicle’s infotainment display even provides real-time data while afloat.

After using the function, however, BYD recommends taking the U8 to a service center for inspection, just to make sure there isn’t any water damage.

The BYD Yangwang U8 is an EV backed with a petrol engine

Underneath its rugged shell, the U8 packs serious performance.

It’s powered by four electric motors, delivering a combined 1,184 horsepower.

A 2.0-liter turbocharged engine acts as a range extender, working alongside a 49.05-kWh battery and a 75-liter fuel tank for an impressive 621-mile range.

Two versions are available: the Premium Edition, which began deliveries in late 2024 and can wade through one meter of water, and the Off-Road Master Edition, complete with a snorkel for 1.4-meter crossings.

Prices start at around 1,089,000 yuan ($151,500), which is a significant premium over the brand’s cheapest car, but may be well worth it due to its unique features.

A Tesla Cybertruck may be able to haul a boat, but the BYD YangWang U8 is the boat.

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