BYD’s Yangwang Altior makes its global debut with four electric motors, handcrafted interiors, advanced driving technology and a claimed range exceeding 1,000 kilometres.
BYD has introduced a new flagship electric luxury sedan under its premium Yangwang brand, positioning the vehicle as a potential rival to established ultra-luxury automakers such as Rolls-Royce.
Named the Yangwang Altior, the new model combines distinctive Chinese-inspired styling, premium craftsmanship and advanced electric vehicle technology.
The luxury sedan made its global debut in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Its launch edition, called the Shanhe Dingyun, carries a starting price of 2.08 million yuan in China, equivalent to approximately A$451,000. Production of this exclusive edition will reportedly be restricted to 399 units worldwide.
Developed over three years, the Yangwang Altior reflects traditional Chinese cultural elements through its exterior and interior design.
Measuring 5,600mm in length, 2,030mm in width and 1,590mm in height, the sedan features imposing proportions that place it in the same size category as some of Rolls-Royce’s luxury offerings.
Its exterior highlights include a jewellery-inspired front grille, sequential welcome lighting and coach-style doors. The front doors open up to 80 degrees, while the rear doors offer a 90-degree opening angle.
Inside, BYD has focused heavily on passenger comfort and handcrafted materials. The four-seat cabin features Hetian jade decorations, traditional Suzhou embroidery, premium leather, natural wood finishes and pure-wool floor mats.
Rear passengers benefit from zero-gravity seats with massage functions and a relaxation mode that adjusts seating, lighting, sound and fragrance.
Additional equipment includes a 39-speaker Dynaudio sound system, a 21.4-inch overhead entertainment display and refrigerators for front and rear occupants.
Underneath, the Altior uses BYD’s e⁴ Platform, featuring four independently controlled electric motors. The system manages torque distribution across individual wheels to improve stability, handling and traction. It also supports tank-turn functionality and emergency flotation capability.
The sedan further features an advanced active suspension system and BYD’s latest driver-assistance technology, powered by a 4nm Xuanji A3 chip.
Power comes from the second-generation Blade Battery, which is claimed to deliver more than 1,000 kilometres of driving range under China’s CLTC testing cycle.
BYD has yet to disclose complete motor specifications, charging details or international availability. The Altior will be offered in Executive and Bespoke editions, with the latter providing additional personalisation options.