BYD’s ultra-luxury brand Yangwang is developing two new flagship models aimed squarely at Rolls-Royce, according to spy shots from China. The images, published on September 12, 2026, show a large sedan and SUV testing on public roads. The sedan features a long wheelbase and coach doors, while the SUV adopts a Cullinan-like profile. Both ride on Maybach-inspired wheels. Yangwang already offers the U8 SUV and U9 supercar, with most models priced above 1 million yuan (around $150,000). These new models would sit above the current lineup, reinforcing BYD’s push into the ultra-luxury segment. The spy shots suggest the brand is preparing direct competitors to the Rolls-Royce Phantom and Cullinan.
Yangwang’s new sedan: A Phantom rival with coach doors
The sedan spotted in China has a silhouette strikingly similar to the Rolls-Royce Phantom. It features coach doors, also known as suicide doors, indicated by the placement of the side door handles. The camouflaged prototype rolls on Maybach-inspired wheels, a common touch among recent luxury Chinese new energy vehicles (NEVs). An air canister is visible under the rear bumper, hinting at BYD’s DiSus-A air suspension system tuned for larger, more upscale vehicles. Chinese sources predict a pillar-less chassis design, which would provide more space for entry and exit when both doors open on each side. However, this design introduces complications in maintaining chassis strength, potentially addressed with an under-mounted load-bearing battery. Notably, the sedan lacks a LiDAR unit and a panoramic glass roof, opting for a metal top in a bid for greater rigidity.
Yangwang’s new SUV: A Cullinan-inspired on-road luxury model
The new SUV was spotted undergoing high-temperature testing in Turpan. It departs from the hard-core off-roader look of the U8 and U8L, instead adopting the side profile of a Rolls-Royce Cullinan. Chinese sources expect the new SUV to focus more on on-road performance. It sits much lower to the ground while parked, though it’s unclear if this is due to adjustable ride height. Like the sedan, it rides on low-profile Maybach wheels instead of meatier off-road tires. A single roof-mounted LiDAR unit sits atop the windscreen, a typical feature on Chinese NEVs. It’s expected to feature BYD’s DiPilot 600 assisted driving system, also known as God’s Eye in China, though the additional two LiDAR units are not visible. The powertrain remains unknown.
Platform and powertrain possibilities
The U8 and U8L are built on BYD’s e⁴ platform, combining four motors at each corner with a 2.0L turbocharged range extender up front. The e³ platform, however, provides a mechanical connection between the engine and front axle, retaining individual control for the rear wheels. With off-road performance no longer a priority, the new SUV could be built on the e³ platform, allowing for lower fuel consumption during sustained high speeds. It’s also plausible that both the new sedan and SUV will be offered with both PHEV and pure EV powertrains, in line with other Chinese luxury NEV offerings. This flexibility would allow Yangwang to cater to different markets and customer preferences.
Yangwang’s market position and sales performance
Yangwang represents BYD’s push into the ultra-luxury market. Beyond the U7 sedan, its other offerings retail above 1 million yuan (around $150,000), with customization and special trims pushing prices even higher. According to China EV DataTracker, Yangwang delivered 442 units in China in August 2026. As BYD’s flagship halo brand, it isn’t expected to sell in large volumes. Nevertheless, Yangwang still sees consistent year-on-year monthly sales growth. The brand has made a name for itself with the floating, tank-turning U8 SUV and the record-breaking U9 Xtreme supercar. The new sedan and SUV are likely to become Yangwang’s new flagship products, giving BYD two new halo cars to reside above the auto giant’s lineup.
Design and technology highlights
The sedan’s pillar-less chassis design, if realized, would be a bold move. It would require innovative engineering to maintain structural integrity, possibly using an under-mounted load-bearing battery. The lack of a LiDAR unit on the sedan suggests a different approach to autonomous driving compared to the SUV. The SUV’s single LiDAR and expected DiPilot 600 system indicate a focus on advanced driver assistance. Both models feature Maybach-inspired wheels, a nod to traditional luxury cues. The DiSus-A air suspension on the sedan would provide a smooth ride, essential for a Phantom rival. These details show Yangwang’s intent to blend cutting-edge EV technology with classic luxury elements.
Implications for the global luxury EV market
Yangwang’s move into Rolls-Royce territory signals the growing ambition of Chinese automakers in the ultra-luxury segment. With prices above 1 million yuan, these models would compete directly with established European brands. For overseas buyers, this could mean new options for high-end electric vehicles with advanced features. BYD’s vertical integration and battery expertise, including the Blade Battery, could give Yangwang a cost advantage. However, brand prestige remains a challenge. Yangwang’s consistent year-on-year growth suggests it is gaining traction in China. If these new models deliver on luxury and performance, they could attract attention in markets like Europe and the Middle East. For those interested in sourcing BYD vehicles, including Yangwang models, exploring official channels is essential. You can check the latest BYD car models for availability.
What to watch next
Yangwang’s new sedan and SUV are still in development, with no official launch date announced. Key details such as powertrain specifications, pricing, and market availability remain unknown. The next few months may bring more spy shots or official teasers. We’ll be watching for confirmation on whether these models use the e³ platform, offer PHEV options, and feature the pillar-less design. For overseas buyers, the question is whether Yangwang will be exported. Given BYD’s global expansion, it’s possible. Stay tuned for updates on these Rolls-Royce rivals.
I’m Lucian from BYD Sourcing. With more than 10 years in the automotive industry and hands-on experience with export procedures and customs clearance, I help overseas buyers source Chinese EVs – especially BYD models – through official, verified channels, for both retail and wholesale. Contact us for a competitive quote.
English
Portuguese
French
Turkish
Russian
Arabic
Spanish