BYD made its European debut at the Geneva International Motor Show in 2008, perhaps the first Chinese carmaker to have a presence in the prestigious event. Since then, it has been a regular exhibitor and where it only showcased one brand (BYD) 16 years ago, for the 2024 edition, it is going to display a diverse variety of models, sub-brands and innovative new technologies.
In a European first, the carmaker will unveil the BYD SEAL U DM-I; and introduce BYD Super DM (Dual Mode) Technology, representing a game-changing evolution in intelligent PHEV technology. The new version of the BYD TANG, the imposing 7-seater AWD fully electric SUV, will also be on displayed.
Also making their appearance in Geneva will be the company’s two sub-brands, YANGWANG and DENZA to Geneva, which will demonstrate its technological prowess and high-end brand portfolio.
New technologies in YANGWANG U8
The YANGWANG U8 (above) will likely be the star of the BYD stand. It will showcase two advanced technologies: the e⁴ platform and the DiSus-P Intelligent Hydraulic Body Control System.
4-motor e⁴ platform
BYD’s e⁴ Platform is the world’s first mass-produced 4-motor independent drive technology platform, designed to offer leading-class safety and performance. Compared with conventional combustion vehicles, it precisely controls the dynamics of all four wheels through 4-motor independent vector control, providing rapid sensing, precise recognition, and robust control capabilities.
The 4 motors’ independent control of the torque of the 4 wheels allows the SUV to use differential steering. This gives the ability to have the left and right wheels spinning in opposite directions, thus realizing the function of 0-to-360-degree ‘Tank Turn’.
The BYD DiSus Intelligent Body Control System is another proprietary breakthrough, said to enhance vehicle agility and compatibility in various driving scenarios. It reduces the risk of rollovers, minimizes occupant displacement during high-speed cornering, acceleration, or braking, and protects the vehicle from damage under challenging road conditions.
DENZA debuts in Geneva
DENZA has been in existence as a joint venture brand between BYD and Mercedes-Benz since 2010. It is positioned as a premium brand in BYD’s range and was introduced in Europe last year at IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich. As at that event last September, the model to be displayed will be the 7-seat D9 MPV (below) which is progressively making its appearance in various markets.
The D9 is meticulously crafted to offer customers in the upper segment a luxurious, intelligent, and personalized driving experience. Within just 6 months of its launch in the Chinese market, the D9 became the best-selling MPV.
Also to be displayed at the DENZA stand will be the N7, a premium fully electric midsize crossover SUV. It rides on a version of the BYD e-platform 3 and has a 91.3kWh LFP Blade battery pack which an provide a range claimed to be up to 700 kms.
A unique feature is the two DC fast-charging sockets which can recharge for a range of 100 kms in just 4 minutes or 350 kms in 15 minutes when both sockets are utilised. However, it is not known if this feature will be offered in models sold in Europe.
The Geneva International Motor Show, which was first held in 1905, will be from February 26 till March 3. The last time the event was held in Geneva was in 2018; in the following 3 years, the COVID-19 pandemic prevented its running. However, last year, the organisers had a 7-day event in Qatar which saw participation by 30 brands.