Auto Shanghai 2025: Yangwang U8L Revealed With Extended Wheelbase, More Tech

BYD is preparing to unveil the Yangwang U8L, a longer and more spacious variant of its hardcore off-road SUV, the Yangwang U8, at the upcoming Shanghai Auto Show on April 23. The new model is positioned to offer greater utility and road presence, while retaining the extreme off-road capabilities and high-performance electric powertrain of the standard U8.

Spotted earlier this month undergoing road tests in China, the Yangwang U8L will build on the foundation laid by its predecessor, which made its debut in October 2023. The original Yangwang U8 entered the Chinese market with a price tag of 1.098 million yuan (approx. ₹1.28 crore), drawing attention for its robust build and unique features, including a 360° tank turn and emergency flotation capabilities.

According to Chinese media reports, the U8L’s length is expected to reach 5600 mm, a notable extension over the standard U8’s 5319 mm. The wheelbase, width, and height are likely to remain similar to the original’s 3050 mm, 2050 mm, and 1930 mm, respectively. The extended body is expected to accommodate a three-row, six-seat configuration. The Yangwang U8 is already a capable off-roader with a 36.5-degree approach angle, 35.4-degree departure angle, and a generous 285 mm ground clearance. It also offers a spacious boot, with a standard volume of 1031 litres expandable to 2050 litres with the rear seats folded down. 

Visually, the U8L stands out with its golden exterior paint, black contrast roof, and unique shield-shaped alloy wheels. Unlike the U8, the U8L drops the externally mounted spare tyre, lending the rear a cleaner, more refined look. Hidden door handles further enhance the SUV’s sleek and modern profile.

While BYD has not disclosed the U8L’s exact powertrain specifications, it is widely anticipated to feature a setup similar to the U8. That includes a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine paired with four permanent magnet synchronous motors delivering a combined output of 880 kW (1180 bhp) and peak torque of 1280 Nm. Power is drawn from a 49.05 kWh Blade LFP battery. This configuration allows the U8 to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of 200 kmph, with a pure electric range of 180 km and a total driving range of 1,000 km (CLTC).

The U8L is also expected to come equipped with BYD’s advanced driver assistance suite known as “God’s Eye,” enhancing its autonomous driving capabilities.