A LUXURIOUS motor that can float on water and has seats with a “hot stone massage” function could very well be the car of the future.
The plug-in hybrid SUV also has a fragrance diffuser and a refrigerator that can run for 12 hours after the vehicle is turned off.
BYDBYD launched the U8 Premium Edition under its high-end sub-brand Yangwang[/caption]
BYDThe car boasts 23.6-inch displays for both the driver and front passenger[/caption]
BYDA display is integrated into the second-row armrest[/caption]
The new U8 Premium Edition vehicle from BYD’s Yangwang division is externally reminiscent of a Land Rover Defender – and comes complete with 20- or 22-inch wheels, a “floating” roof, flush-mounted door handles, and an octagonal spare tyre cover.
Motoring expert at Cinch Sam Sheehan said: “Unlike its British rival, the U8 is a massive flotation device. This makes it safer in the event of an accident in the water, keeping all passengers upright and dry.
“As soon as it senses you’ve driven into the water, Emergency Floating Mode activates, shutting down the engine, raising the suspension, closing the windows, opening the sunroof and displaying water depth and vehicle position on the central control screen.”
But it’s the car’s interior that’s the real selling point.
With Nappa seats that have a “10-point matrix hot stone massage function”, a sunroof, Sapele wood trim, and three high-speed wireless smartphone charges, the U8 is the epitome of luxury and comfort.
Both the driver and the front passenger are provided with 23.6-inch displays, as well as a large 12.8-inch portrait infotainment system.
Meanwhile, other passengers in the car can enjoy a dual-screen rear entertainment system with a display in the second-row armrest.
There is also a 22-speaker premium audio system and a 70-inch augmented reality head-up display – both of which add to the already-highly-immersive driving experience.
The car has a powerful electric setup with four electric motors that deliver a combined output of 1,184 horsepower and allow the SUV to achieve 100km/hr in just 3.6 seconds.
Off-road adventurer-lovers would likely be pleased with many of the U8’s more unique features, including all-terrain tank turns, tyre blowout stabilisation, and emergency flotation.
The Premium Edition can stay afloat for up to 30 minutes in extreme conditions such as flash floods or off-road water obstacles.
Another feature handy for off-road drivers is the car’s suspension system which allows for an extra 5.9 inches of ground clearance.
BYD’s high-end sub-brand Yangwang unveiled the U8 Premium Edition last year priced at 1,098,000 RMB (£120,000).
The luxury car’s plug-in hybrid system offers a comprehensive long trip capability range of up to 1,000km.
With direct current charging rates of up to 110kW, the Premium Edition can go from 30 per cent to 80 per cent in just 18 minutes.
Its 6kW vehicle-to-load discharge capability can power electronic devices and high-power equipment for up to 25 hours.
BYDThe car’s exterior resembles that of a Land Rover Defender[/caption]
ReutersIt features 20- or 22-inch wheels, a ‘floating’ roof, and flush-mounted door handles[/caption]
BYDMany unique features make the U8 ideal for off-road adventure-lovers[/caption]