The man who once couldn’t stop laughing at BYD probably isn’t laughing now. Back in 2011, Elon Musk dismissed the Chinese company outright when asked about it. These days BYD outsells Tesla over the course of a year and ranks among the largest carmakers on the planet, and like the brand it has overtaken, it now wants a piece of the world beyond cars.

Earlier this week, BYD executive vice president Li Ke revealed that the company is developing its own humanoid robots, noting that they will share common technologies with the brand’s cars. In addition, they could also be sold through BYD’s existing dealership network, not only in China, but also in other markets.

Read: BMW’s New Humanoid Workers Never Take A Break Or Get Paid

BYD hasn’t stated when its own humanoid robots could be ready to hit the market, nor has it said how it will develop and manufacture them. It’s possible they could be brought to life through an open platform where BYD works alongside established robotics companies, according to CarNewsChina. This would likely slash development times by relying on firms with extensive experience in this space.

China’s Robotic Future

While it’s Tesla that generates plenty of headlines for its humanoid robot, dozens of Chinese technology companies have already developed robots seemingly far more advanced than what Musk’s company has done. Earlier this year, more than 100 humanoid robots from different companies participated in a half-marathon in China. The winning robot, created by smartphone manufacturer Honor, needed just 50 minutes and 26 seconds to complete the half-marathon, almost seven full minutes quicker than the fastest half-marathon ever run by a human.

BYD isn’t the first Chinese brand to venture into the world of humanoid robots, either. Last year, Chery unveiled its own feminine humanoid robot, the Mornine M1, built by the company’s AiMoga subsidiary. Complete with long blonde hair, fake breasts, and a BBL, it’s a bizarre-looking creation that went on sale last month. It’s not cheap, however, starting at 285,800 yuan, or more than $41,000.

New electric vehicles from China have become synonymous with their incredibly low price tags, but this particular Denza Z9 GT broke from the script. Presented at the recent Cannes Film Festival, it sold at a charity auction for an eye-watering €700,000 ($814,200), nearly five times the going rate for a standard Z9 GT in Europe.

So why is this Denza worth so much more? Well, the car is a one-off, built by BYD in partnership with Swiss jeweler and watchmaker Chopard. The powertrain was left alone, but the rest of the vehicle received a generous dose of bespoke detail intended to push it well past the standard model.

Found throughout the cabin are violet-colored amethyst stones, including around the central infotainment screen and used as toggles on the center console and the seat controls.

Read: BYD’s New Denza Z Has Maserati Looks And Lamborghini Power For Toyota Money

The Z9 GT’s interior also includes a combination of high-grade leather and wooden accents, as well as a 20-speaker audio system from Devialet. Chopard’s logo has been incorporated into the headrests, the carpets, and the wireless phone charging pad. The Swiss brand also handcrafted two custom timepieces to match the car, including the 36 mm Happy Sport in 18-carat gold with diamonds, as well as the 41 mm Alpine Eagle in rose gold.

Hypercar Power For Your Next Roadtrip

A custom set of luggage was also handcrafted by Shiro for the car. As for the exterior, it stands out from other Z9 GT models you’ll see thanks to gold accents running along the sides and used on the wheels and brake calipers.

Also: BYD Boss Brags Z9 GT Is ‘Ten Times Better’ Than Premium Euro Rivals

The bespoke Chopard model is based on the flagship Denza Z9 GT, which uses three electric motors that combine to produce 1,150 hp. The EV also uses BYD’s Blade Battery 2.0 and supports Flash Charging, meaning the battery can be charged from 10 percent to 97 percent in just nine minutes.

This one-off marked the European launch of the Z9 GT, which in standard form opens at €117,500, or $136,700 at current exchange rates, in Germany. That figure sits well above its Chinese prices of between 269,800 yuan and , around $39,800 today, yet still a relative bargain compared to what it offers as well as the competition like the Porsche Panamera.

There is virtually no segment of the automotive market BYD does not want to dominate, and its latest model, the Ti7, is its first seven-seater outside of China. The new model is going global to take on the likes of the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Land Rover Defender 110.

Read: This Chinese SUV Is Part Lexus, Part Land Rover, And A Dash Of G-Class

Unveiled last year in Thailand through the Fangchengbao brand, and since confirmed to be landing in the UK as a BYD-branded model, the Ti7 looks very similar to the B5 and B8 models that Fangchengbao already sells in China. The key difference sits underneath. Those two ride on a ladder frame, while the Ti7 is a unibody, much like the current Land Rover Defender. That trade likely costs it some hardcore off-road credibility against the B5 and B8 but should sharpen its on-road manners.

Bigger Than The Defender 110, Just

The Ti7 stretches 5,146 mm (202.5 inches) long, 1,995 mm (78.5 inches) wide, and 1,865 mm (73.4 inches) tall, riding on a 2,920 mm (114.9-inch) wheelbase. That makes it longer and slightly narrower than a Defender 110, which is the comparison BYD probably wants to put in your head.

When it launches in the UK, it will be the first model from the Chinese brand to feature its DM-p powertrain, comprising a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, a pair of electric motors, and a 35.6 kWh LFP battery. Total power should be above 600 hp, and BYD is quoting a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 4.8 seconds and an all-electric driving range of 79 miles (127 km).

The Chinese Can Do Rugged

Back home, Fangchengbao also offers the Ti7 as a full EV, though Europe is not yet on the invite list for that one. The Chinese electric version comes either as a 402 hp rear-driver or an all-wheel drive twin-motor with 691 hp. Buyers there can choose between a 92 kWh and a 105.7 kWh battery.

Visually, the Ti7 looks quite nice. The front end includes a pair of narrow split LED headlights, small black air intakes, and a blacked-out bumper. It also includes squared-off wheel arches, chunky wing mirrors and door handles, a panoramic glass roof, and a spare wheel carrier positioned on the tailgate.

The cabin is similar to other models from the BYD family and includes a large central infotainment screen, a digital instrument cluster, and a chunky four-spoke steering wheel. There are also two wireless smartphone chargers, plenty of soft-touch leather materials, and ambient lighting.

Though camera-loving Tesla swears otherwise, most experts agree that Lidar is the gold standard of driver assistance sensing technology. It’s better at judging distances and detecting unlit objects than cameras, and sees in more detail than radars. But it’s also expensive, or at least it is in Europe and America, where it’s restricted to $100k+ luxury cars. In China, though, you can now get it on a $10,000 micro EV.

BYD has just refreshed its Seagull subcompact for its domestic market. The Seagull is the tiny 3,780 mm (148.8 inches) electric hatch sold as the Dolphin Surf in Europe. For MY26 there are a couple of new colors, Mango Orange and Mint Green, fresh 16-inch Starlight wheels and new LED taillights, though the 74 hp (75 PS / 55 kW) powertrain is carried over.

Related: BMW Removes Level 3 Self-Driving Tech From New 7-Series

But the big news is the availability of a driver assistance system that combines a Lidar sensor with more commonly available radar and camera-type sensors. The Lidar tech comes as part of the optional DiPilot 300, an ADAS system that’s the mid-point of three BYD “God’s Eye” assistance packages. You can tell if the Seagull you’re looking at has DiPilot 300 because it looks like someone’s grafted on the roof snorkel from a McLaren 675LT.

A base Seagull Vitality Edition with the smaller 30.1 kWh battery and 190-mile (305 km) range costs ¥69,900 ($10,300), Car News China reports, while the poshest Flying Edition with a bigger 38.9 kWh power pack and 252-mile (405 km) range runs to ¥85,900 ($12,600). But add on the DiPilot 300 option and those prices jump significantly to ¥90,900 ($13,400) and ¥97,900 yuan ($14,400).

Lidar Works, But At A Price

A $3,100 option on a $10,300 car is kind of crazy, but then Lidar is expensive. That’s why BMW and Mercedes, who both previously offered the technology as part of their hands-off Level 3 assistance packages on their 7-Series and S-Class flagships, have dropped the circa-$7k options from the newest version of those cars.

Instead, both German brands are switching their attention to Level 2 systems that still require drivers to look at the road, but unlike the Level 3 systems – which were restricted to freeways – can operate hands-free in urban environments. Both brands will return to L3 tech at a later date.

Despite the presence of a Lidar sensor, the Seagull’s DiPilot 300 is also an advanced Level 2 system, not Level 3. But BYD is talking about L3 as a future development for some of its cars, and you wouldn’t want to bet against even the humblest models like the Seagull getting it in a few years.

BYD

Worried that automakers like Tesla could vacuum up the bulk of its low-tariff Chinese EV quota in one gulp, the Canadian government is reportedly rethinking how to dole out the import permits before they all end up in one company’s hands.

Under Canada’s new trade arrangement with China, up to 49,000 China-built EVs can be imported each year at a slashed 6.1 percent tariff, a steep drop from the punishing 100 percent duty. The first batch of 24,500 permits has been on the table since late March and is supposed to stay available through August 31, handed out on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read: Chinese EV Brands Are On A Hiring Spree In Canada As They Set Up Shop

According to Bloomberg, not a single permit has actually been issued yet. That window is about to get crowded, though, because Tesla just confirmed it will start selling a Chinese-built Model 3 in Canada at a sharply lower price. The new entry point is CA$39,490 before destination, roughly US$29,007, which guts the old floor set by the Model 3 Long Range AWD at CA$79,990, or about US$58,700.

Canada Wants Equitable Access For All Chinese Brands

In addition to Tesla, through its Volvo and Polestar brands already operating in Canada, may also be positioned to secure part of the initial allocation. Once the second half of the 49,000 permits becomes available after August 31, officials may revise the system and assign specific reduced-tariff allocations to individual automakers, giving more brands access to the program.

These brands could include newcomers to the Canadian market, such as BYD and Chery. According to unnamed officials, the quota system may eventually expand to favor companies that establish operations in Canada, including local assembly facilities.

News of these potential changes comes just after it was revealed firms including BYD, Cheyr, and the Geely-owned Zeekr brand have launched a hiring spree across Canada, eager to quickly set up shop and start selling their vehicles locally.

After several years of unimpeded growth, Chinese juggernaut BYD recently posted its eighth straight month of year-over-year sales declines, even with a barrage of new model launches trying to stem the bleeding. The Chinese giant clearly has growing pains, but one of its newest products is bucking the trend in spectacular fashion.

The company’s new, full-size, all-electric Great Tang SUV was presented earlier this year and showcased at the Beijing Auto Show two weeks ago. As the show opened, so did pre-sales for the EV, and in just two weeks, BYD has locked in more than 100,000 pre-sale orders for the Great Tang.

Read: BYD’s New Flagship Great Tang Charges From 10 To 97% In 9 Minutes

Of these, over 30,000 pre-sale orders were placed in the first 24 hours. These are extraordinary figures for a vehicle that’s even larger than the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9 sold in the West. Clearly, the Chinese still have the appetite to buy luxurious SUVs when they’re priced right.

The entry-level Great Tang starts at 250,000 yuan or $36,700, a shockingly low figure given that it uses BYD’s new Super e platform, includes its second-generation Blade battery, and has a 1,000-volt electrical architecture. This model uses a single, rear-mounted electric motor with 496 hp, and can travel up to 590 miles (950 km) on a charge under China’s optimistic CLTC cycle.

Comfort For Seven

The flagship version is priced at 320,000 yuan ($47,000) and delivers 784 hp, laughing in the face of the most powerful versions of the Ioniq 9 and EV9.

Not only do buyers get plenty of power and advanced battery tech, which means the Great Tang can charge from 10 to 97 percent in just nine minutes, but they also get a cabin loaded with features. As standard, the latest BYD is sold in a 2+2+3 configuration and includes three front screens and a display that folds out from the headliner for rear passengers.

The floodgates are creaking open in Canada. Just as Tesla relaunched its Chinese-built Model 3 in the country, several of China’s most aggressive automakers are putting the pieces in place to follow it through the door. Geely, Chery, and BYD are all moving on the Canadian market.

As part of its preparations, Chery has brought two SUVs from its Jaecoo brand to Toronto, equipped with Ontario manufacturer license plates. Autonews Canada identified the vehicles as Jaecoo E5s, an all-electric SUV that starts at about $37,000 in Australia, where the currency is roughly at parity with the Canadian dollar.

While these vehicles are thought to be in Canada only temporarily, their appearance comes shortly after the automaker sent almost two dozen local dealer representatives to the Beijing Auto Show, giving them a firsthand look at the Chinese market.

Read: Americans Pay $37K For The Cheapest Tesla, Canada Got A Chinese One For $29K

It’s not just Chery that’s making important moves in Canada. According to a report from last month, BYD plans to open 20 sales locations this year. The company reportedly intends to work with local partners to establish those stores. It’s also said to be actively considering building its own factory in Canada, or perhaps acquiring one from an established brand.

Zeekr Gears Up

In the not-too-distant future, Canadians could have several new models from the Geely Group to choose from. One of the most exciting brands prepping for a local launch is Zeekr, with confirmation that it recently began hiring for seven senior-level positions in late April, all based in Toronto and including positions in sales, legal, marketing, and aftersales. The hiring push also includes product and network development roles.

Geely is also looking to hire someone to serve as Zeekr’s head of network development, responsible for evaluating dealer business plans and establishing a dealer operations guide.

The rush for Chinese brands to launch in Canada comes just months after the two nations signed an important new trade deal. Through this deal, tariff rates for 49,000 EVs imported from China will be slashed from 100 percent to just 6.1 percent. Importantly, the quota of 49,000 eligible vehicles will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning automakers need to act quickly. Only 24,500 permits will be issued in the first six months of the program.

Data from Australia’s Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries and the Electric Vehicle Council reveal that, of the 92,591 new cars, SUVs, pickups, vans, and trucks sold in April 2026 (up 2.2% over the same month in 2025), 16.4% were battery-electric. This works out to 15,185 vehicles. In contrast, April 2025 saw just 6,010 new EV sales.

See Also: For The First Time, Electrified Car Sales Surpassed Gas Vehicles In Australia

It’s not just EVs that saw strong numbers; hybrids were also in demand. In fact, 18,162 new hybrids found homes in April 2026, bolstered by the first full month of sales of the Toyota RAV4, which bagged best-selling car in Australia. Plug-in hybrids also saw 9,628 new units shifted in April 2026.

Petrol And Diesel Vehicle Sales Dwindle

While EVs, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids were enjoying the limelight, partly driven by tax incentives, traditional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles took a hit in April 2026. Sales of new gasoline-powered vehicles saw a decline of 30.1% in comparison with April 2025 figures.

Diesel-powered new vehicle sales were down by 21.7%. These declines could also be attributed to the ongoing war in the Middle East, which has significantly affected crude oil deliveries to Australia. This has resulted in rising prices at the pump, as well as some scattered shortages.

For April 2026, BYD’s Sealion 7 SUV dominated the EV rankings, with 1,780 units sold. Meanwhile, the Tesla Model Y sold nearly 1,000 fewer units, although it was up 193.6% year-on-year, as last year’s model was due for replacement.

The BYD brand as a whole shifted 7,702 new units. Other strong sellers in the Chinese EV space include the Geely EX5 with 1,202 deliveries, and 1,006 units from Chinese brand Zeekr, of which 973 were its 7X SUV. Shifting our attention to the car segment, Tesla’s Model 3 narrowly beat BYD’s Seal, with 403 versus 370 deliveries.

Toyota Still Leads, Ford And Mazda Drop From Podium

Despite a 21.6% reduction in year-on-year sales, Toyota remained top dog in Australian new vehicle sales through April 2026. They shifted 15,185 units, followed by BYD with a 7,702 new unit tally.

BYD’s rise to second place means that Ford and Mazda, the historical second and third-place finishers, are now fifth and sixth, with 5,748 and 5,636 units respectively. However, the Ford Ranger held on to the silver medal as the second best-selling vehicle, sandwiched between the RAV4 and Hilux.

When looking at Australian new car sales as a whole, the new third- and fourth-place occupants for April are Kia and Hyundai, with 6,450 and 6,002 units sold respectively. Of course, these two automakers also have EVs and hybrids in their portfolio. The same is true for Chery in eighth place and MG in ninth, while Isuzu rounded off the Top 10 ahead of Mitsubishi.

There’s a new electric vehicle king in the United Kingdom and it’s not one that you’d expect. Quite the opposite as BYD has taken the podium.

More: BYD Sold 700,000 Electrified Cars Last Quarter And Still Lost More Than Half Its Profit

Citing data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), BYD said they have sold 12,754 EVs through April and that gives them over 7% of the market share. This makes the Chinese firm the “UK’s largest electric vehicle brand” and places them ahead of rivals such as BMW, Tesla, and Volkswagen.

BYD went on to note they’ve also “become the best-selling EV brand among private buyers.” This is a notable achievement since the company’s vehicles don’t qualify for government subsidies. The electric vehicle grant provides discounts of up to £3,750 ($5,079) for certain vehicles including the Ford Puma Gen-E, Nissan Leaf, and Mini Countryman Electric.

The automaker credited its success to a diverse lineup of vehicles that includes everything from the £18,675 ($25,290) Dolphin Surf to the £47,025 ($63,682) Sealion 7. The latter features an 82.5 kWh battery pack that provides a WLTP combined range of 300 miles (483 km), although higher-end variants have more advanced powertrains.

BYD UK’s Bono Ge said, “With fuel prices remaining high, more drivers are turning to electric vehicles as a smarter and more economical choice. We are delighted to see the UK EV market grow by 22% year-on-year, and even more proud that BYD has become the UK’s leading EV brand in a little over three years.”

Year-to-date BYD sales are up 124% to 26,396 units, which puts the brand ahead of a number of European automakers including Citroen (12,142), Cupra (15,171), and Dacia (10,250). The brand is also beating Fiat (2,320), Land Rover (25,313), Mini (18,814), and Renault (23,645) – among others.

UK Sales April 2026

* Includes all types of powertrains. Source SMMT

BYD has recorded its steepest quarterly profit decline since 2020, underlining the mounting pressure facing the world’s largest electric vehicle seller in its home market despite success abroad. The company’s latest report showed that net profit in the first quarter of 2026 declined by 55.4 percent from the previous year, falling to 4.09 billion yuan, approximately $597 million.

Revenue dropped by nearly 12 percent to 150.2 billion yuan ($22 million), the third consecutive quarterly decline and the lowest quarterly revenue figure since Q2 2024. However, the result still bested analysts’ prediction that revenue would be around 132-140 billion yuan. BYD sold 700,463 “New Energy Vehicle” (EVs and PHEVS) units in the quarter, down 30% year-on-year and nearly 48% below the record volumes of Q4 2025.

Read: China Told Automakers To Stop Cutting Prices, BYD Just Made It Worse

The Chinese market for electric cars is fiercely competitive. BYD has taken over as the market leader because of its low-priced models, yet price wars in its home market are intense. Meanwhile, the government has scaled back subsidies. China exempted NEVs from purchase tax entirely in 2024–2025, but for 2026 and 2027, the relief has been halved to a maximum of 15,000 yuan per vehicle.

This policy shift pulled demand forward into Q4 2025, exacerbating the Q1 2026 slowdown. Sales in China have declined for several consecutive months, and profits are being squeezed even as exports grow strongly.

Global Push Becomes Critical As Domestic Sales Cool

BYD is looking to the overseas market as domestic sales decline. It plans to ship more than 1.5 million automobiles this year in an attempt to overcome sluggish domestic sales. Industry insiders expect massive export growth next year, but overall delivery growth will probably be less aggressive.

This strategic shift was on display at the Beijing Auto Show, where BYD launched new products targeting the premium segment, including the Datang (Great Tang), a full-size electric SUV priced from 250,000 yuan, which attracted more than 30,000 pre-orders on its first day. Moving beyond low-end models is intended to help the company sustain profitability amid the mass-market price war.

There’s a renewed focus on regaining technological superiority, too. The company is enhancing charging speed, among other features, to attract consumers who are not keen on switching from gas-powered cars.

But BYD is at a crossroads as it stands. Its expansion across borders may be the answer to whether it can bounce back. Analysts say the next few quarters will be critical, with domestic EV demand recovery and robust export growth seen as the keys to a profit rebound.

The Chinese auto industry has spent the better part of two years waiting for the price war to burn itself out. It hasn’t, and car companies are showing no signs of relenting. Facing declining sales, BYD is instituting significant price cuts, as are key rivals Geely and Chery.

Almost a year has passed since Chinese authorities sat down with the heads of more than a dozen carmakers and pressed them to call off the price war before it became a race to the bottom. The country’s market regulator called for efforts to “comprehensively rectify ‘involutionary’ competition,” borrowing a phrase Premier Li Qiang has used for the industry’s increasingly self-defeating behaviour.

Read: Dozens Of Chinese EV Brands Could Collapse In The Next Year

It appears little has changed. Data from Bloomberg reveals the average price reduction across BYD models increased to 10 percent in March. Meanwhile, Geely and Chery are running discounts of around 15 percent, though those have held roughly steady through the past twelve months.

China Doesn’t Have Enough Car Buyers

Overcapacity within China’s automotive sector is at the root of the problem. Last year, approximately 23 million new vehicles were sold in the country, but its car factories have the capacity to produce 55.5 million vehicles a year. This has prompted many local brands to ramp up vehicle exports. Last month, EV exports from China more than doubled.

Now facing greater scrutiny from regulators, companies, including BYD, are being forced to pay suppliers much more quickly than in the past. Prior to local authorities getting involved, automakers had been delaying invoice fulfillment for months at a time, allowing them to offer deep discounts to spark sales. Now, invoices must be paid more promptly, increasing liabilities on carmakers’ balance sheets. For BYD, this has pushed its debt-to-equity ratio to 25 percent.

“It seems to be good for the customers, but it’s not — manufacturers are losing money,” the secretary general of the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, François Roudier, said. “It hurts the full system.”

China’s export push has a new poster car, and it’s not aiming low. Denza, a BYD-owned brand with an eye on global markets, has unveiled a production model that could unsettle the Maserati GranCabrio Folgore. The production version of the Denza Z will be offered in coupe, convertible, and track-focused variants, pairing sleek styling with a high-performance electric powertrain and complex electronics.

The Z Convertible looks more elegant compared to its closed-roof sibling, despite the fact it shares most of its body panels. Removing the top exposes a four-seat cabin and a reworked rear deck that improves the proportions. The bumpers are cleaner, too, stepping back from the more aggressive, track-led treatment seen on the earlier show car.

More: China’s New Porsche 911 Rival Goes By One Name. Z, Denza Z

The example that was showcased at the 2026 Beijing Auto Salon combines a bluish green shade with a satin finish and a tri-color interior, sending strong Maserati vibes. While we didn’t get to see the soft reclining roof in action, earlier spy shots confirm it is made of fabric.

The model was developed under the direction of former Audi design chief Wolfgang Egger, now overseeing the styling of BYD’s Denza, Fang Cheng Bao, and YangWang brands.

More: The Chinese Luxury Brand Mercedes Helped Create Is Now Coming For Mercedes’ European Buyers

The Z range will use a tri-motor setup with all-wheel drive and a combined output of around 1,000 hp (746 kW / 1,014 PS). It also adopts BYD’s DiSus-M electromagnetic suspension, the latest “Eye of the God” driver assistance suite, and a battery pack compatible with the BYD’s flash-charging tech.

Global Aspirations

Interestingly, Denza is taking an unusual route with the Z, prioritizing Europe and other export markets ahead of its domestic launch in China. After its static debut at the Beijing Auto Show, the car is set for a dynamic outing at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Back home, local estimates place pricing between ¥400,000-500,000 ($58,600-73,200), a figure that lands well below established Western rivals such as the Maserati GranCabrio, which starts at 2,438,000 yuan ($356,700) in China.

Denza / Weibo

Denza, a BYD-owned brand with a focus in export markets, has unveiled a new production model that could haunt the dreams of the Maserati GranCabrio Folgore. The production version of the Denza Z will be offered in coupe, convertible, and track-focused variants combining sleek styling with a high-performance electric powertrain and sophisticated electronics.

The Z Convertible looks more elegant compared to its closed-roof sibling, despite the fact it shares most of its body panels. The exposed four-seater cabin and the redesigned rear deck help create sexier proportions, with the design of the bumpers being more refined than the track-hungry bodykit of the previous show car.

More: China’s New Porsche 911 Rival Goes By One Name. Z, Denza Z

The example that was showcased at the 2026 Beijing Auto Salon combines a bluish green shade with a satin finish and a tri-color interior, sending strong Maserati vibes. While we didn’t get to see the soft reclining roof in action, earlier spy shots confirm it is made of fabric.

The model was designed under the guidance of former Audi design chief Wolfgang Egger, who is responsible for the styling of BYD brands Denza, Fang Cheng Bao, and YangWang.

More: The Chinese Luxury Brand Mercedes Helped Create Is Now Coming For Mercedes’ European Buyers

The Z series will be powered by three electric motors offering AWD capabilities and a combined output of around 1,000 hp (746 kW / 1,014 PS). It will also be equipped with BYD’s DiSus-M electromagnetic suspension system, the latest “Eye of the God” driver assistance, and a battery pack compatible with flash charging.

Global Aspirations

Interestingly, the Denza Z will launch in Europe and other global markets first, before landing in Chinese showrooms. Following its premiere at the Beijing Auto Show, the model will make its dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK.

In China, local media estimate it will be priced in the region of ¥400,000-500,000 ($58,600-73,200), undercutting sportscars and supercars from Western brands.

Denza / Weibo

In China’s fast-moving EV market, brand identities can flip in an instant. Fang Cheng Bao built its name on squared-off SUVs that look ready for a quarry. At the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, it arrived with something else entirely. The BYD-owned brand has pivoted hard, unveiling a supercar and a trio of low-slung EVs under a new Formula line.

The Formula X is the undisputed showstopper. This open-air supercar evolved from the Super 9 speedster concept from 2024 and features balanced proportions, aggressive LED headlights, upward-opening doors and no less than 19 functional air vents. The overall styling aligns closely with Denza, another BYD brand that already carries a handful of rebadged Fang Cheng Bao models.

More: China’s EV Juggernaut Wants To Race In Formula 1

The structure leans heavily on carbon fiber, from the body panels to a bespoke monocage chassis. The exposed two-seater cabin has a futuristic “battle cockpit” wrapped around the driver, and does without the structural bridge of the earlier concept.

The supercar uses a tri-motor setup that produces a combined 1,000 hp (746 kW / 1,014 PS) and 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque. A decade ago, figures like these would have been considered extreme. Today, they sit in the shadow of BYD’s record-breaking YangWang U9 Xtreme, which reaches a staggering 2,977 hp (2,220 kW / 3,018 PS).

More: BYD’s 200 Software Updates Last Year Made Toyota’s 8 Look Like A Rounding Error

Even so, the Fang Cheng Bao Formula X’s numbers still land where they need to. More to the point, this is not just a concept parked under bright lights. BYD has confirmed a 2027 market launch, suggesting this will make the jump from show stand to road. Whether it travels beyond China remains unclear.

A Hatchback and Two Sedans

Beyond the supercar, the Formula lineup moves into more familiar territory. The Formula S is positioned as a rival to the Porsche Taycan, the Formula S GT adopts a shooting brake shape, and the Formula SL sits at the top of the range as a more upscale take on the sedan.

The S and S GT are essentially two bodystyles of the same model, both of which could pass for something wearing a Denza badge. The SL sets itself apart with redesigned bumpers, a more sculpted profile, and gold-finished 21-inch alloy wheels.

All three sit on the same electric underpinnings, built around an 800V architecture with a tri-motor AWD setup producing up to 1,000 horsepower. They also feature BYD’s DiSus-M magnetic ride control. In terms of size, each rides on a 3,100 mm (122,1 inches) wheelbase and stretches beyond 5,000 mm (196.8 inches) in length.

The high-performance EVs are due in Chinese dealerships in late 2026. These low-slung models will broaden the Fang Cheng Bao lineup alongside the existing Leopard SUVs. Given that some of those SUVs already appear overseas under the Denza brand, a similar export strategy would not be surprising here.

Fang Cheng Bao, the BYD-owned brand that built its reputation on boxy and rugged SUVs, has undergone a radical transformation at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show. The automaker has unveiled a striking supercar, along with three low-slung EVs under the Formula series.

The Formula X is the undisputed showstopper. This open-air supercar evolved from the Super 9 speedster concept from 2024 and features balanced proportions, aggressive LED headlights, upwards opening doors and no less than 19 functional air vents. Overall, the styling language is similar to Denza, a BYD brand with European aspirations.

More: China’s EV Juggernaut Wants To Race In Formula 1

The sculpted bodywork is made of carbon fiber, as is the custom “monocage” chassis. The exposed two-seater cabin has a futuristic “battle cockpit” wrapped around the driver, and does without the structural bridge of the earlier concept.

The supercar is powered by three electric motors producing a combined 1,000 hp (746 kW / 1,014 PS) and 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque. These numbers would be labeled extreme a decade ago, but we now live in a world where BYD’s record-breaking YangWang U9 Xtreme generates a staggering 2,977 hp (2,220 kW / 3,018 PS).

More: BYD’s 200 Software Updates Last Year Made Toyota’s 8 Look Like A Rounding Error

In any case, the specs of the Fang Cheng Bao Formula X still sound quite promising. More importantly, the model is not just a show piece, as BYD announced plans for a market launch in 2027. It will be interesting to see whether the high-performance EV will be offered outside China.

A Hatchback and Two Sedans

Besides the high-performance EV, the Formula series expands into the executive sector. The Formula S is a Taycan-rivaling sedan, the Formula S GT is a hatchback/wagon with a shooting brake stance, and the Formula SL is a high-end version of the aforementioned sedan.

The S and the S GT are effectively two different bodystyles of the same model that could easily wear the Denza emblem. The SL is distinguished by the redesigned bumpers, the more sculpted profile, and the gold-finished 21-inch alloy wheels.

All three models share the same electric foundation, riding on an 800V platform with a tri-motor AWD powertrain generating up to 1,000 horsepower. They also utilize BYD’s DiSus-M magnetic ride control. In terms of footprint, they have an identical wheelbase of 3,100 mm (122,1 inches), and measure over 5,000 mm (196.8 inches) long.

The high-performance EVs are scheduled to hit the roads in late 2026. The low-slung models will expand the Fang Cheng Bao lineup next to the existing Leopard series of SUVs.

The previously SUV-only lineup of the Fang Cheng Bao brand.

BYD isn’t content with just taking on the Ford Ranger. China’s most successful automaker is already looking to move up a weight class to challenge the Ford F-150. That next step won’t involve the US market, though, as this larger model is being developed with Australia in mind.

BYD’s first pickup in Australia, the Shark 6, arrived in late 2024 wearing a face that looked more than a little inspired by the F-150. At 5,457 mm (214.8 inches) long, it sits just beyond the typical midsize footprint and comes equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

More: Jim Farley Said Chinese Pickups Couldn’t Tow Like A Ranger. BYD Just Proved Him Wrong

The Shark 6 was a runaway success, becoming Australia’s best-selling PHEV truck in 2025 with 18,073 deliveries. For 2026, BYD has doubled down, introducing a Performance trim with a more potent powertrain along with a chassis-cab bodystyle driven by customer demand.

Moving Up to the Heavyweights

However, Australians have been asking for something even bigger. Liu Xueliang, managing director of BYD Asia Pacific, said: “Some customers have requested a full-size Shark 6, similar in size to the Ford F-150. We are on our way to try to get there.”

Word of the program first slipped out in early 2025, when David Smitherman, then CEO of EVDirect, said a full-size BYD pickup was “absolutely in development.” Since then, things have gone quiet on timing, but the working expectation points to a 2027 arrival if everything stays on track.

More: BYD Just Landed On Brazil’s Dirty List, And It Wasn’t For Its Cars

According to CarExpert, the real pressure isn’t coming from private buyers chasing something bigger. It’s fleet operators, particularly mining companies, that are pushing for a larger, more capable truck with electrification baked in from the start.

In Australia, the full-size segment currently includes the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado, and Toyota Tundra. With a combined sales of 8,763 units in 2025, full-size trucks are a niche compared to the midsize segment, as the Ford Ranger alone sold 56,555 units becoming Australia’s best-selling vehicle overall for the third consecutive year. Still, the profit margins are significantly higher, which explains BYD’s interest.

Factory right-hand-drive conversions for full-size trucks don’t come cheap, and in Australia they can easily push past AU$150,000 (US$105,800). The F-150 starts from a little over AU$122,000 (US$87,000) in XLT trim climbing to over AU$152,000 (US$108,000) for the Lariat, both with the 3.5L engine. BYD sees an opening here. Build the truck properly from the start in right-hand drive, price it more sensibly, add a tech-heavy cabin and an electrified powertrain, and suddenly those inflated conversion costs start to look like yesterday’s problem.

More BYD Trucks On The Horizon

That move upmarket isn’t happening in isolation. Liu Xueliang has already suggested a fully electric counterpart to the Shark 6 is in development, aimed squarely at industries that no longer want diesel on site. Mining is the obvious target. If it lands as expected, it will go head-to-head with the electric workhorses now lining up, including the Toyota Hilux BEV, the upcoming Isuzu D-Max BEV, and the LDV eTerron 9.

More: Toyota’s Electric Hilux Costs $20K More Than The Diesel, And That’s Not Even The Worst Part

At the other end of the scale, BYD is also sketching out something smaller. A compact pickup is in the works, expected to ride on a unibody platform and use a plug-in hybrid setup. This one isn’t chasing job sites. It’s aimed at buyers who want the look and versatility of a pickup without committing to something oversized or overly serious.