BYD Turkey displayed its cutting-edge electric and hybrid vehicles at TEKNOFEST, Türkiye's largest technology festival held at Istanbul Ataturk Airport, featuring the luxury YANGWANG U8 and U9 models alongside the popular DOLPHIN electric hatchback.
Festival visitors had the opportunity to examine the YANGWANG U9, which holds the title of world's fastest electric supercar in its Track Edition variant, and the amphibious YANGWANG U8, capable of both land and water travel with a distinctive 360-degree tank turn feature.
The Chinese automaker, which ceased fossil fuel vehicle production in 2022 to become the world's first manufacturer dedicated exclusively to new energy vehicles, used the platform to demonstrate its technological capabilities to Turkish audiences. BYD also showcased its proprietary technologies at a dedicated exhibition space, including Blade Battery systems, e4 Platform architecture, CTB and CTC solutions, and the DiSus Intelligent Body Control System.
Founded in 1995 as a battery manufacturer, BYD has evolved into a global leader in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and smart technologies. The company now operates with expertise spanning batteries, motors, and electronic control units, positioning itself as more than just an automaker but as a comprehensive mobility technology brand.
The DOLPHIN, part of BYD's Ocean series, features marine-inspired design elements and advanced technology equipment. The model, which won the AutoBest Award last year, offers a 427-kilometer range with its 60.4 kWh Blade Battery. Its 204 PS motor accelerates from 0-100 km/h in seven seconds, while 110 kW fast charging capabilities allow the battery to charge from 30% to 80% in just 26 minutes.
The YANGWANG U8, the luxury brand's first mass-production model, generates 1,196 PS and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds while offering up to 1,000 kilometers of range. Its unique features include the ability to rotate 360 degrees and travel on water surfaces.
The electric supercar U9 produces 1,305 PS and 1,680 Nm of torque through four independent motors, reaching 100 km/h from standstill in 2.3 seconds. Equipped with an 80 kWh Blade Battery providing 450 kilometers of range, the vehicle supports ultra-fast charging to 80% capacity in 10 minutes. The U9 also demonstrates advanced engineering with capabilities including 360-degree rotation and jumping functions.
While the YANGWANG models showcase BYD's research and development strength, they are not planned for immediate sale in the Turkish market due to the absence of European homologation certification.
"BYD attaches great importance to reflecting the brand's strong commitment to innovation at every opportunity," said İsmail Ergun, General Manager of BYD Turkey, emphasizing the company's dedication to technological advancement.
Ergun highlighted TEKNOFEST's significance as an organization that demonstrates Türkiye's achievements in aviation and defense industries while supporting young people's interest in science and technology.
"With over 120,000 R&D engineers filing an average of 40 patent applications daily, the company brings many revolutionary technologies to the automotive world, from batteries to electric motors, from suspension systems to intelligent driving technologies," Ergun stated.
He noted that Turkish consumers stand out for their interest in new technologies and rapid adaptation capabilities, adding that BYD Turkey meets user demands with a comprehensive product range of seven different models featuring the latest technologies.
"We had introduced our YANGWANG U8 and U9 models with a comprehensive technology show at our event in Kemerburgaz on September 11, which was a first in Europe. After the BYD Technology Show, it is a special pleasure for us to be at TEKNOFEST with our advanced technologies and to bring these technologies together with all of Türkiye," Ergun concluded.