Video: BYD’s YangWang U8 can float & wade through water at 3 km/h

The YangWang U8 comes with four electric motors, one on each wheel, which combined put out 1,184 BHP.

BYD’s recently launched high-end sub-brand, YangWang, unveiled two models last year, including its flagship SUV, the U8. The YangWang U8 is a range-extended electric SUV wanting to take on the likes of the Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

The U8 SUV comes with a host of cool features, which help it stand out from its competition. However, the most unique feature of the U8 is its ability to handle deep water wading. The standard electric SUV can wade up to a depth of 1 metre, while the ‘Off-Road Master Edition’ has a wading depth of 1.4 metres. The SUV also gets a special ‘Yachting’ mode wherein the SUV can remain afloat for 30 minutes and sail at 3 km/h by simply spinning its wheels.

The YangWang U8 comes with four electric motors, one on each wheel, which combined put out 1,184 BHP. The SUV also comes with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, which serves as a range-extender. The engine produces electricity to recharge the SUV’s 49.05 kWh battery pack. With a full tank of fuel and a fully charged battery, the U8 claims a maximum range of 1000 km.

When the yachting mode is activated, the onboard sensors automatically elevate the suspension, deactivate the engine, switch the HVAC system to re-circulation mode and close the windows. It does, however, open the sunroof as an emergency exit for occupants.

Deliveries of the YangWang U8 are set to begin in October this year, with the SUV priced at around $149,000. Prices for the Off-Road Master Edition are scheduled to be announced at a later stage.

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