Witness the Astonishing Chinese Super SUV That Can Glide on Water

 

Witness the Astonishing Chinese Super SUV That Can Glide on Water

BYD, one of the world's fastest-growing electric vehicle manufacturers, is making waves overseas with the launch of its new luxury sub-brand, YangWang. Among its impressive lineup, the YangWang U8 stands out as an electric quad-motor powerhouse with a unique party trick.

Unveiled in January, the ambitious YangWang U8 carries a price tag of $250,000. This electric behemoth boasts four motors, each generating between 220kW and 240kW, with a torque of 420Nm. The result is a staggering combined output of 820kW and the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in just three seconds.

YangWang recently introduced the Premium Edition of the U8, which elevates the luxury factor. This top-tier model features dual 23.6-inch digital screens for both the driver and front passenger, complemented by a 12.8-inch touchscreen in the center console. It also offers three wireless phone chargers, a refrigerator, and a unique '10-point hot stone massage' seat function.

However, what truly sets the U8 apart is its aquatic prowess. YangWang demonstrated its waterborne capabilities by releasing a video showcasing the U8 floating on water and even wading through it using its turning wheels, reaching speeds of up to 1.8mph (or 2.9kph).

The U8's water capabilities are nothing short of remarkable. The base model can wade through water up to one meter in depth, while the off-road specialist Master Edition variant can conquer depths of up to 1400mm. A recent video from CarNewsChina showcased this feature in action.

The U8 takes its water abilities to the extreme with its 'Yachting Mode.' Activating this mode results in the U8 raising its suspension, closing all windows, opening the sunroof, shutting off the range extender engine, and switching the air conditioning system to re-circulation mode. According to YangWang, in this mode, the U8 can float and navigate bodies of water for up to 30 minutes, achieving speeds of up to 2.9kph solely using its spinning wheels. It's important to note that this mode is designed as an emergency feature, a last resort for those facing critical situations.

For those concerned about the compatibility of electricity and water, it's worth noting that electric vehicles generally offer better weather protection than their internal combustion counterparts. For instance, a first-generation Nissan Leaf is rated to wade through waters up to 700mm, just 100mm less than what a Ford Ranger can handle.

While it's not recommended to put this to the test, it highlights the superior design of electric vehicles in terms of weather resistance. Traditional petrol-fed hatchbacks would fare much worse in 700mm of water.

The U8's transformation into a yacht on demand is just one of its intriguing features. This large electric SUV can also execute 360-degree 'tank turns,' enabling it to spin on the spot by manipulating its wheels in different directions—a feature shared with the Rivian R1-T electric pickup.

Equipped with nearly 40 sensors, including three Lidar units, 16 cameras, and 14 ultrasonic sensors, the U8 offers advanced features such as Automated Valet Parking, with 'City Navigation Autopilot' expected to be added through an over-the-air update in the future.