At the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, BYD’s Denza Z9 GT emerged as a standout, showcasing China’s growing influence in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. This luxury grand tourer, a collaboration between BYD and Mercedes-Benz, combines high performance with cutting-edge technology, positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the global EV market.
Design and Performance The Denza Z9 GT boasts a sleek design, measuring 5,180 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width, and featuring a 3,125 mm wheelbase, giving it a commanding presence on the road. Its aerodynamic profile is complemented by a distinctive front grille and a full-width rear light bar, crafted under the guidance of renowned designer Wolfgang Egger.
Under the hood, the Z9 GT offers both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and pure electric (EV) variants. The EV model is powered by three electric motors—one at the front delivering 230 kW and two at the rear, each providing 240 kW—culminating in a total output of approximately 952 horsepower. This setup enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds.
The PHEV variant combines a 2.0T 152 kW (204 hp) engine with a 200 kW (268 hp) front electric motor and two 440 kW (590 hp) rear electric motors, paired with a 38.512 kWh Blade battery. This configuration offers a pure electric range of 201 km and a comprehensive range of 1,100 km.
Interior and Technology Inside, the Denza Z9 GT is equipped with an AI-defined smart cockpit powered by BYD’s 9000 cockpit chip, supporting up to 10 interconnected screens. Features include a 13.2-inch embedded full LCD instrument panel, a 17.3-inch center control touchscreen, a 13.2-inch co-pilot entertainment screen, and a 50-inch AR-HUD. Additional amenities encompass digital rearview mirrors, dual refrigerators for front and rear passengers, retractable Devialet speakers, dual retractable 50W wireless charging panels, hidden air-conditioning vents, 128-color ambient lighting, and a 2.1-square-meter panoramic sunroof.
The vehicle also features air suspension and a rear-axle steering system, reducing the turning radius to just 4.62 meters, enhancing maneuverability.
Market Impact and Global Expansion Since its launch in September 2024, the Denza Z9 GT has achieved remarkable success, with over 5,000 orders within 36 hours and surpassing 10,000 deliveries by January 2025, making it the fastest new energy luxury GT model to reach this milestone. BYD plans to introduce the Denza Z9 GT to global markets, including Europe, where it aims to challenge established luxury models like the Porsche Panamera. The vehicle’s blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology positions it as a strong contender in the international EV landscape.
The Denza Z9 GT exemplifies China’s rapid advancement in the electric vehicle industry, combining high performance, luxury, and innovative technology. As BYD expands its global footprint, the Z9 GT stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to redefining the standards of luxury electric mobility.
