Hi Everyone!
We love looking at new cars here at Planetauto, so when we got an invite to see some of the luxury vehicles from Yangwang as well as BYD’s Seal U, well, we jumped at the chance!
We needed to review the new MG HS that we have on review right now, so it was an excellent reason to road trip – this time to Birmingham.
When we arrived at the BYD Stratstone, the first thing we saw was the U8 SUV, and oh my goodness – it’s colossal!
This all-electric SUV is designed for luxury and rugged off-road capability, packed with advanced technology that allows it to tackle the most extreme environments. And yes, it has a feature that truly sets it apart—Tank Mode.
The U8 manages to blend the look of a rugged off-roader with the elegance of a high-end luxury SUV. The front end features a bold, muscular design with a large grille and aggressive LED headlights that give it an imposing presence. The sharp lines and wide stance emphasize its off-road capabilities while maintaining a refined, luxury feel.
From the side, the U8's large, chunky wheels and high ground clearance make it clear that this is a vehicle built for serious adventures. The rear design is both sleek and functional, with integrated LED taillights and a spare wheel mounted at the back—another nod to its off-road pedigree.
Powered by the same quad-motor system as the U9, each wheel has its own motor, giving the U8 exceptional off-road capability, as the system can independently control the power sent to each wheel, ensuring maximum grip on uneven or slippery terrain.
But the real showstopper? Tank Mode. This innovative feature allows the U8 to spin 360 degrees on the spot, much like a tank. By rotating the wheels on either side of the vehicle in opposite directions so it can turn in place, making it easier to navigate tight off-road spaces or perform sharp turns in challenging environments. This is a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts and sets the U8 apart from traditional off-road SUV’s.
The U8 is also designed to handle extreme conditions, from steep inclines to deep water crossings. Its advanced suspension system and adaptive terrain modes ensure that no matter where you take it, the U8 will get you there with confidence and comfort.
The Yangwang U9 is a true electric supercar, designed to make a statement with its futuristic looks and jaw-dropping performance capabilities. From its sleek, aerodynamic lines to its state-of-the-art powertrain, the U9 is a testament to how far electric vehicles have come. It’s not just a fast car; it’s a symbol of what EVs can achieve when they’re engineered with no limits.
At first glance, the U9 is a visual masterpiece. Its low-slung, aggressive stance is complemented by a grille-less front end, which not only enhances the car’s futuristic look but also improves its aerodynamic efficiency. The sharp, angular LED headlights gives it a menacing, almost predatory appearance that signals its supercar status.
From the side, the U9’s sleek profile is accentuated by a continuous flow of lines that seamlessly guide your eye toward the rear, where a full-width LED taillight bar stretches across the back. Every element of the car’s design serves a purpose—maximising downforce, reducing drag, and ensuring the U9 sticks to the road at high speeds.
When it comes to performance, the Yangwang U9 delivers on every front. Equipped with BYD’s cutting-edge quad-motor system, each wheel has its own motor, providing an unprecedented level of control, grip, and responsiveness. The result? A supercar that rockets from 0-60mph in just over 2 seconds. That’s faster than most traditional combustion-engine supercars and places the U9 among the fastest EV’s in the world.
The car’s all-wheel drive system ensures that the immense power is evenly distributed, making for a driving experience that’s both thrilling and highly controlled. Whether on a track or on the road, the U9 delivers a seamless and exhilarating ride.
Thanks to BYD’s Blade Battery technology, which allows for rapid charging—regaining up to 80% of its range in just 30 minutes when using a fast charger. This blend of high performance and practicality makes the U9 a supercar that’s ready for real-world use, and with a range to get you where you want to go.
Now we have seen – and driven the Seal already, so it was with great delight that we got to see the Seal U there too! Whilst the Yangwang U9 and U8 dazzled with their extreme performance and advanced features, the Seal U offered a more grounded but equally impressive proposition—an electric SUV that’s built for everyday use without sacrificing style or technology. The Seal U represents the next generation of family SUVs, with a focus on practicality, comfort, and sustainability.
With a more conventional SUV shape compared to the U8, it still stands out with its clean, modern lines and sleek silhouette. The front end features a closed-off grille typical of electric vehicles, framed by slim LED headlights that give the Seal U a sophisticated and confident look.
The side profile is smooth and aerodynamic, with flush door handles that reduce drag and enhance the car’s overall efficiency. The rear of the Seal U continues the clean design language, with a full-width light bar and subtle detailing that exudes understated elegance.
Inside is designed with practicality and comfort in mind. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families or anyone who needs a versatile daily driver. The seats are upholstered in premium materials, and the dashboard features a large touchscreen that controls the car’s infotainment system.
Technology is at the forefront of the Seal U’s design, with features like smartphone integration, voice controls, and a host of driver assistance systems that make driving safer and more convenient. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, ensuring that all the latest tech is right at your fingertips.
While the Yangwang U9 and U8 are designed for extreme performance, the BYD Seal U is all about delivering a smooth, efficient driving experience. Powered by a single electric motor, the Seal U offers a balance of performance and efficiency, with a range of around 300 miles on a full charge.
Charging is quick and convenient, thanks to BYD’s advanced battery technology, which allows for rapid charging at fast-charging stations. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or taking a long road trip, the Seal U is built to handle it all with ease.
Thank you all, and enjoy!
Annabelle 😊
