BYD’s ultra-luxury Yangwang U8 SUV has received Australian Design Rules (ADR) certification, appearing in the Australian Government’s road vehicle approval database.

The listing covers the standard-wheelbase, five-seat U8, powered by a 145kW 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and four electric motors, each producing 220kW. Combined system output is listed at 880kW.

The U8 uses its petrol engine to generate electricity for its electric drivetrain, with each wheel driven by its own motor. This allows precise control of power delivery and enables the SUV to perform a tank turn, rotating on the spot by driving the wheels on each side in opposite directions.

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It can also crab walk by steering all four wheels in the same direction, while an emergency flotation function is designed to keep the vehicle afloat and manoeuvrable in deep water for a limited time.

Underneath, the U8 combines body-on-frame construction with locking front and rear differentials. The approval documents list a tare weight of 3644kg and a braked towing capacity of 3500kg, along with 20- and 22-inch wheel options.

The approval applies to the standard-wheelbase model, rather than the longer six-seat U8L. ADR certification confirms the specified vehicle has met relevant Australian regulatory requirements, but does not guarantee a local launch.

Last year, a right-hand-drive Yangwang U8 plug-in hybrid wearing heavy camouflage was spotted in Mansfield, Victoria,. It was the same vehicle, wearing the same number plates, that had been seen in Alice Springs a few weeks earlier.

BYD Yangwang U8 quickfire FAQ

How much power does the U8 produce?

Combined system output is listed at 880kW.

Is the U8 a hybrid?

Yes. Its petrol engine generates electricity to support the four-motor electric drivetrain.

How much can the U8 tow?

The Australian approval documents list a 3500kg braked towing capacity.

Can it really perform a tank turn?

Yes. Its four electric motors allow it to rotate on the spot by driving the wheels on each side in opposite directions.

Will the U8 be sold in Australia?

A local launch has not been confirmed, but gaining Australian Design Rules (ADR) certification is a big step towards that.

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