YangWang U8 is a floating off-roader that does tank turns
Published on Sep 25, 2023 at 7:48 PM (UTC+4)
by Adam Gray
Last updated on Sep 26, 2023 at 10:14 AM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
This is the new YangWang U8 from BYD’s high-end sub-brand.
It’s an all-electric luxury off-roader that’s firmly set its sights on challenging established SUVs such as the Range Rover and Mercedes G-Wagen.
And to demonstrate it’s got what it takes to keep up with the best, the Chinese automaker’s been showing off some of its capabilities.
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To be fair to the YangWang U8, it’s got two very neat tricks up its sleeve.
Not only can the massive SUV perform 360-degree tank turns, it also has the ability to float on water for short periods of time.
An SUV of this size needs a lot of oomph to get it going, that’s why it’s powered by four electric motors with a combined output of 1,184 hp.
Because each wheel has its own motor, they can all turn in a different direction, meaning the SUV can turn on the spot.
CarNewsChina recently shared a video showing the YangWang US performing a slow, 360-degree rotation.
It almost appears as if the SUV is on a turntable, although some juddering can be seen as it executes the maneuver.
Thankfully, the video doesn’t have any sound, so we don’t have to bear the rather unpleasant tire-screeching noise.
As mentioned, the YangWang U8’s other impressive feature is its ability to handle deep water wading.
Apparently, the standard model can wade up to a depth of 1 meter (39 inches).
The Off-Road Master Edition can go even deeper, though; up to 1.4 meters (55 inches), thanks to its snorkel.
Should you find yourself going deeper into that water than the snorkel allows, the YangWang U8 offers a special Yachting Mode to protect itself.
Onboard sensors automatically elevate the suspension, deactivate the engine, switch the internal HVAC system to re-circulation mode, close the windows, and open the sunroof.
According to the Chinese automaker, in this mode the U8 can remain afloat for up to 30 minutes and sail at 1.8 mph (3 km/h or 1.6 knots) simply by spinning its wheels.
Deliveries of the more road-focused YangWang U8 Premium Edition are set to arrive in October, with prices starting at 1,089,000 yuan ($150,000).
Prices for the Off-Road Master Edition are expected at a later date.
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Adam Gray is an experienced freelance motoring journalist and content creator based in the United Kingdom. Using his media accreditation with manufacturers’ press offices, Adam test drives the latest cars and attends new vehicle press launches, producing written reviews and news pieces for a variety of lifestyle and business publications. Here at Supercar Blondie, Adam applies his journalistic skills penning social-first content around current news and trends. When he’s not behind the wheel of the latest car or writing up another viral story, Adam can be found at his local rink playing ice hockey or at the Riverside Stadium supporting his beloved Middlesbrough FC.
