China's BYD challenges Rolls-Royce: unveils electric limousine for the ultra-rich

As Forbes writes, BYD presented the electric limousine Yangwang Altior in Abu Dhabi, aiming for a place among the world's most luxurious cars. The new model is released under the Yangwang brand, created in 2022 for the most expensive models of the Chinese concern.

The brand name translates from Chinese as "look up", and Altior means "higher" in Latin. The developers state that they aimed to combine modern technologies with the traditions of Chinese culture.

The Altior is about 5.6 meters long and almost two meters wide. Its size and silhouette resemble the Rolls-Royce Ghost. The massive hood and rear doors, which open against the direction of travel, emphasize this resemblance. As in Rolls-Royce, special compartments for umbrellas are provided. At the same time, Chinese designers tried to give the car its own character: the radiator grille and headlights shimmer in the light, resembling jewelry.

Unlike the Rolls-Royce Ghost, the new model has a fully electric drive. Its declared range exceeds 1000 kilometers. However, this figure is according to the Chinese CLTC test cycle, which usually yields more optimistic results than European and American standards.

BYD is also betting on ultra-fast charging. Its Flash Charging technology allows power up to 1500 kilowatts and, under appropriate conditions, can recharge the battery from 10 to 70% in just five minutes. However, the specific charging characteristics of the Altior, its battery capacity, and engine power are not yet disclosed. More detailed information is promised to be published in spring 2027.

Interior for those who ride with a personal driver

The main focus in the Altior is on the rear passengers. Two large seats, similar to first-class seats on airplanes, are provided for them. They feature numerous adjustments, leg rests, and a mechanical massage system with four spherical elements. According to the manufacturer, such a massage is deeper and stronger than what conventional pneumatic systems provide.

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With a single press of a button, the cabin can be switched to relaxation mode. The seats recline, leg rests elevate, window blinds close, lighting softens, massage activates, and a selected fragrance is released.

Space was also not spared. According to BYD, rear passengers have about 121 centimeters of legroom. Thick carpets lie on the floor, and a wide central console is located between the seats.

Entertainment is handled by a Dynaudio audio system with 39 speakers. When the car is started, some high-frequency speakers rise and rotate. A 21.4-inch screen descends from the ceiling, on which movies can be watched or video conferences held. The front panel features a huge digital display and three round screens stylized as classic instruments.

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The car is also equipped with driver assistance systems. A LiDAR, located in the front part of the roof, is used for their operation. This is a laser sensor that determines the distance to surrounding objects and helps the car orient itself in space.

Price around $300,000

Pre-orders for a limited version of the Altior have already begun in China. Its estimated cost is around $300,000. Only 399 such cars are planned for production.

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In terms of price, the new model is closer to the Rolls-Royce Ghost than to the much more expensive Phantom. At the same time, BYD expects to offer buyers not only a comparable level of luxury but also the latest electric technologies.

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