BYD’s Yangwang U7 luxury electric sedan is set to launch an updated version in 2026 boasting a substantial range increase with improved efficiency. The new model, equipped with a larger 150 kWh battery, will travel up to 1,006 km on a single charge while consuming just 17.7 kWh per 100 km. This represents a significant leap forward in electric vehicle (EV) performance, defying previous industry trends.
Efficiency Gains Despite Increased Size
The updated Yangwang U7 achieves a 10% reduction in energy consumption compared to the current model, which uses a 135 kWh battery and consumes 19.7 kWh/100 km for a 720 km range. Despite a 100 kg weight increase, BYD engineers managed to improve efficiency, resulting in a 206 km boost in declared range. This is notable because larger batteries typically lead to higher energy use due to added weight.
The U7 will be available in two configurations: a standard 960 kW (1,287 hp) variant with the full 1,006 km range and a more powerful 1,000 kW (1,341 hp) version that delivers 860 km of pure electric driving.
Market Context and Pricing
Launched in China in March 2025 with a starting price of $90,050 USD, the Yangwang U7 quickly became BYD’s third model under its luxury brand. Cumulative deliveries reached 1,866 units by May 2025. The updated version will hit the market shortly following homologation by Chinese regulators in October and December 2025. The vehicle is a large sedan with dimensions of 5265/1998/1517 mm and a 3,160 mm wheelbase.
The U7 also offers a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant combining a 2-liter engine with four electric motors, providing a total range of up to 1,000 km with a 60-liter fuel tank. Both models feature advanced technologies, including rear-wheel steering, hydraulic suspension, and an electronic vertical body control system. Pricing ranges from $90,050 to $101,525 USD.
Breaking the Range-Weight Trade-Off
The Yangwang U7’s performance is particularly impressive because it challenges the long-held assumption that larger battery packs automatically increase energy consumption. For comparison, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, a lighter vehicle with three electric motors, consumes 16.5 kWh/100 km. BYD’s achievement demonstrates that strategic engineering can overcome this trade-off, unlocking greater range without sacrificing efficiency.
BYD has effectively rewritten the rules of EV design, proving that increased battery capacity doesn’t necessarily mean increased energy waste. This sets a new benchmark for the industry.
The Yangwang U7’s advancements in energy efficiency and range make it a compelling contender in the luxury EV market, signaling a shift towards more sustainable and high-performing electric vehicles.
