DENZA Z9GT Pre-Sales Open; Baojunyunhai Pre-Sales; AVATR 012 Pre-Sales at RMB 700,000 | E-Week Highlights

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DENZA Z9GT Officially Opens Pre-sale

On August 20, the DENZA Z9GT officially opened for pre-sale, with the Z9 also making a surprise appearance. Both the Z9GT and Z9 are available in plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and pure electric powertrains, offered across five trim levels:

Yisanfang PHEV versions:

1,100 AWD Pro at RMB 339,800;

1,100 AWD Max at RMB 369,800;

1,100 AWD Ultra at RMB 419,800.

Yisanfang EV versions:

630 AWD Pro at RMB 359,800;

630 AWD Max at RMB 389,800.

According to official information, the DENZA Z9GT will be officially launched and delivered in late September, while the Z9 will be launched and delivered in the fourth quarter of this year.

For DENZA, the Z9GT is a key model for opening up a new sales landscape. Thanks to Zeekr's 001 and NIO's ET5T heating up the station wagon market, the Z9GT's arrival at this time will undoubtedly attract higher market attention.

The Z9GT is a D-segment vehicle with overall dimensions of 5,180 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width, and 1,500 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 3,125 mm, yet it is priced in the RMB 350,000 range. DENZA’s strategy for the Z9GT not only sharply highlights its cost-effectiveness but also avoids direct competition with popular wagons like the Zeekr 001 and NIO ET5T.

If users are currently looking to choose a new energy station wagon in the RMB 350,000 price segment, the Z9GT is almost their only option. Of course, precise positioning is just the first step; to truly win over customers, the Z9GT still needs to demonstrate solid product capabilities.

In January last year, BYD released Yisifang. Simply put, Yisifang is a four-motor drive technology that enables independent control of each wheel through the individual management of four motors, thereby achieving more precise and flexible handling. The Yangwang U8's ability to perform an in-place turn is a typical example.

Similar to Yisifang, the "three" in Yisanfang refers to three independently controllable motors, enabling integrated control of independent tri-motor drive and dual-motor independent rear-wheel steering. This characteristic is most directly reflected in the Z9GT through powerful performance and highly agile, precise handling. Regarding power, according to official information, the combined horsepower of the Z9GT's three motors approaches 1,000 hp, with a zero-to-100 km/h acceleration time reaching the three-second range.

In terms of handling, according to official information, the rear dual-motor independent steering allows the Z9GT's rear wheels to achieve a maximum steering angle of 20 degrees. Thanks to this, the Z9GT's minimum turning radius is only 4.62 meters. Additionally, the Z9GT supports tank turns and crab walking. A tank turn uses the left or right front wheel as the center point to execute a tight U-turn, which can be used for extremely tight turning or parking scenarios; crab walking has a maximum angle of 15 degrees, enabling more relaxed obstacle avoidance.

Z9GT is a D-segment sedan exceeding 5.1 meters in length. With a minimum turning radius of 4.62 meters, along with capabilities for tight U-turns and crab walking, Z9GT is expected to handle narrow driving scenarios with ease.

At the foundational technology level, Yisanfang is built upon Xuanjijiagou. It integrates vehicle sensors to enhance interaction between the car and its environment, enabling more flexible and intelligent driving control.

According to official information, the Z9GT is equipped with a total of 33 intelligent driving sensors, including two LiDAR units, five millimeter-wave radars, twelve ultrasonic radars, and fourteen cameras. These 33 intelligent driving sensors not only help the Z9GT execute vehicle control maneuvers such as compass U-turns and crab walking more precisely but also lay the hardware foundation for intelligent driving across all scenarios, including highways and urban areas. According to DENZA, the intelligent driving capabilities possessed by the DENZA N7 will be transferred to the Z9GT. Upon launch, the Z9GT will feature nationwide high-speed and expressway navigation based on a mapless solution; by the end of this year, it will also push out mapless nationwide urban navigation and valet parking intelligent driving features.

Notably, Yisanfang is compatible with both plug-in hybrid and pure electric platforms, offering competitive energy efficiency. For the plug-in hybrid version, Yisanfang incorporates BYD's latest Diwudai DM Jishu. Official data indicates that the 2.0T engine in Z9GT achieves a thermal efficiency of 44.13%, with a fuel consumption of 5.6 liters per 100 kilometers under NEDC conditions when the battery is depleted. The pure electric version also demonstrates excellent energy efficiency, with an official figure of 15.8 kWh per 100 kilometers under CLTC conditions.

Additionally, Yisanfang can handle dangerous extreme driving scenarios. For instance, official data shows that in the event of a tire blowout, DENZA Z9GT can safely brake to a stop at speeds up to 140 km/h.

In terms of exterior design, following the D9, N7, and N8, DENZA has introduced a new design language on the Z9GT.

The Z9GT’s front fascia is called the 'Corona Front,' and the official statement says its design inspiration comes from the vitality of a sunrise. A more distinctive feature is that, on the side, DENZA designed a 'Z'-shaped decorative line for the Z9GT, which echoes the Z9GT's name and increases the Z9GT's recognizability.

Overall, the Z9GT presents a dynamic and sharp stance. Combined with its D-segment dimensions, this further amplifies its visual impact.

Inside, the Z9GT’s cockpit layout closely resembles that of the N7, featuring a row of instrument cluster, central infotainment, and passenger screens across the dashboard. The steering wheel is also largely identical to the N7’s.

However, the center console features a completely new arrangement for the wireless charging pad, gear selector, and vehicle control buttons. Notably, the Z9GT’s wireless charging pad is motorized, rising and lowering to enhance the cabin’s overall premium feel.

Interestingly, in addition to the wireless charging pad supporting deployment and retraction, the Z9GT's Diwalei sound system also features deployable speakers. When occupants enter the vehicle, three Diwalei speakers on the dashboard slowly rise, creating a sense of ritual upon entry.

Quick Review:

The launch of the DENZA Z9GT marks BYD’s new attempt in the high-end electric vehicle market. With striking design, strong performance, and rich intelligent configurations, the Z9GT leverages high-performance electric motors and advanced driver assistance systems to improve power output, driving convenience, and safety. Positioned precisely in the RMB 350,000 new energy shooting brake segment, it fills a gap in this niche market. Compared to the Zeekr 001 and NIO ET5T, the Z9GT holds competitive advantages in pricing and configuration. Backed by BYD’s extensive experience and technical accumulation in the EV sector, the Z9GT is poised to achieve strong market performance.

Baojunyunhai Pre-sale Price Announced

On August 22, 2024, Baojun Auto officially opened pre-sales for its first intelligent long-range SUV, the Baojunyunhai. The Baojunyunhai is available in four models with pre-sale prices ranging from RMB 121,800 to RMB 145,800, covering both plug-in hybrid and pure electric versions. Specific trims and prices are as follows:

60km plug-in hybrid version: priced at RMB 121,800

140km plug-in hybrid version: priced at RMB 135,800

500km pure electric version: priced at RMB 135,800

600km pure electric version: priced at RMB 145,800

The Baojunyunhai comes standard with advanced driver assistance features across all trims, including highway navigation assist, city memory navigation, and full-scenario intelligent parking. During the pre-sale period, users who place an order of RMB 2,000 through official online channels can enjoy a nine-part gift package valued at RMB 51,888. These gifts include deposit expansion, lifetime free access to the autonomous driving features, and trade-in subsidies.

Baojunyunhai adopts Tengyun design aesthetics, with a stylish and grand overall appearance. Specific design highlights include:

Front fascia: The distinctive Tengyun design aesthetic gives the front end high recognizability.

Side profile: The body boasts a golden-ratio width-to-height ratio of 1.17, with smooth lines.

Interior design emphasizes comfort and technological sophistication. Specific highlights are as follows:

Instrument cluster: Equipped with floating smart dual screens measuring 8.8 inches and 15.6 inches.

Seats: The driver’s seat supports six-way electric adjustment, with optional front-seat ventilation and heating; the passenger seat also features electric adjustment.

Space: A wraparound cabin design with a 64% space utilization rate.

Smart Cockpit: Theater-grade immersive surround sound system.

In terms of battery and range, Baojunyunhai offers two choices: a pure electric version and a plug-in hybrid version. The pure electric version has a range of up to 600 kilometers, supports 2C DC fast charging, and can replenish 300 kilometers of range in 20 minutes (from SOC 30% to 80%). It also comes standard with 6.6kW slow charging and 3.3kW vehicle-to-load discharge capabilities. The plug-in hybrid model uses the Lingxihundongxitong, achieving a combined range of up to 1100 kilometers, with a WLTC fuel consumption of only 4.96L/100km when the battery is depleted, and it supports DC fast charging.

In terms of power performance, the Baojunyunhai delivers a maximum power output of 150 kW, accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 7.8 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 170 km/h.

Baojunyunhai is equipped with the Lingmouzhijia 2.0 Max system for driver assistance, supporting urban memory navigation, highway intelligent navigation, and intelligent driving functions. The Lingmouzhijia 2.0 Max system has undergone testing across more than eighty million kilometers of complex road conditions nationwide, covering more than twenty provinces and more than two hundred cities.

Quick Review:

The pre-sale price of Baojunyunhai ranges from RMB 121,800 to RMB 145,800, covering both plug-in hybrid and pure electric versions, which can well meet the needs of users in mainstream price segments. In particular, the 600km pure electric version and the 140km plug-in hybrid version are priced identically, making consumer choice simpler. Moreover, Baojun retains its intelligent advantages in entry-level products on Yunhai. Although smart driving has become one of the important decision factors for more and more consumers when purchasing a car, the Lingmouzhijia 2.0 Max system in Baojunyunhai should add considerable points to it.

AVATR 012 Pre-sale: RMB 700,000

On August 21, 2024, the AVATR Brilliant Night event was held with great ceremony. Executives from Changan, Huawei, and CATL attended in person to jointly empower AVATR to open a new chapter. Meanwhile, the limited co-branded Future Intelligent Luxury Sedan AVATR 012 made its global debut, with a pre-sale price of RMB 700,000 and a global limit of 700 units. At the same time, the suggested guide price for the AVATR 11 & 12 Royal Theater Edition is RMB 450,000.

CHN New Era, Empowering the First Brand of New Luxury

Zhu Huarong, chairman of Changan Automobile and AVATR Technology, stated: "The next three years will be a critical period for AVATR to build its 'first new luxury brand.' As a milestone leap, AVATR has become the first company to invest in Huawei Yinwang. The industry-leading 'HI' model is further upgraded to the new 'HI Plus' model. The optimal resources of CHN will empower AVATR, driving its leapfrog development and fully building an AVATR that participates in global competition as a new luxury brand."

At the event, senior executives from the CHN alliance praised the AVATR 012 highly and pledged that CHN would provide its latest technologies and optimal resources to AVATR. Chi Linchun, Vice President of Huawei’s Intelligent Automotive Solution BU, stated: "Looking ahead, all of Huawei’s intelligent automotive solutions will be open to AVATR. Together with CATL, we aim to help AVATR become a leading brand in high-end smart electric vehicles, delivering an even better mobility experience." Gao Huan, CTO of CATL’s Domestic Passenger Vehicle Division, remarked: "If Huawei gives AVATR a smart brain, then CATL provides it with a 'strong heart.' The AVATR 012 is equipped with CATL’s Qilinchaochongdianchi battery, empowering the vehicle with top-tier product capabilities.",

A Masterpiece of Art and Technology: AVATR 012 Defines the Global Peak of Automotive Aesthetics

As the second high-luxury collectible work in the 0 series, the AVATR 012 was co-led by Nader, Chief Design Officer of AVATR, and Kim Jones, Creative Director of Dior Men and Artistic Director of Fendi Women’s Couture. It continues the value vision of 'New Emotional Luxury,' creating a unique luxury experience. As Kim Jones’ first automotive collaboration, he applies a century of exquisite craftsmanship from luxury fashion to the futuristic AVATR 012, achieving a harmonious blend of style and innovation.

In terms of exterior design, the exclusive Liquid Silver paint presents an elegant beauty of flowing light and shadow; the 21-inch exclusive forged mirror-finish wheels exude composure whether in motion or at rest; the Kim Jones collaboration Logo and custom Halo screen dynamic welcome sequence are full of ceremonial prestige. Inside, the dashboard features genuine European wood panels, offering a sense of extreme craftsmanship and high customization; the four-seat layout offers more than one meter of longitudinal space for each seat, while the full-grain Nappa vegetable-tanned leather seats come with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Paired with a four-zone independent air conditioning system, it creates a cabin designed for ultimate self-indulgence. Additionally, the large inspirational Starry Sky panoramic roof, the floating sky screen in the rear cabin, and the Meridian premium audio system create a private, exclusive space. Furthermore, equipped with CATL’s Qilinchaochongdianchi battery, it becomes the sedan with the fastest charging speed globally; it also features Huawei’s Qiankun Intelligent Driving ADS 3.0, Hongmengzuocang, and the DriveONE high-voltage electric drive system.

AVATR 012, with its high-luxury aesthetic and top-tier luxury texture, has garnered attention and favor from numerous cross-boundary top-tier circles including fashion, high-end luxury, technology, and art. On the night of the dazzling event, Li Na, Asia's first Grand Slam singles champion in tennis; writer and fashion lifestyle blogger Kiya; Mei Naizi, General Manager of Xiaohongshu Commercial Marketing Center; Cao Meng, Vice President of Hangtian Yuxing; Zhang Lei, CEO of Stardust Data; Sun Hefang, founder of jewelry brand HEFANG Jewelry; Qin Zhongwei, nationally registered auctioneer; supermodel Wang Shiqing; automotive blogger and 011 owner Zhang Enbo, among other prominent figures from various circles, attended the site in person and became the first batch of AVATR 012 owners, jointly witnessing the haute couture beauty of AVATR 012.

New products are set to launch densely; AVATR is firmly committed to creating new luxury bestsellers

At the debut event, besides adding a new model to the AVATR 0 series, the Royal Theater Edition of the AVATR 11 and 12 flagship models was also showcased, with an official launch imminent. As the top-trim versions of the AVATR 11 and 12, the Royal Theater Edition embodies users' values of ultimate self-pleasing and a rich, composed lifestyle. The two-tone body color options of Obsidian Gray/Obsidian Black feature a silver star-ring waistline that highlights an elegant and dynamic posture; the Royal Theater-themed design language, paired with Merlot Red, Rose White, and Light Gold interior color schemes, vividly interprets the style of new luxury; seats and the steering wheel are covered in selected full-grain semi-aniline leather, while exclusive Royal Theater badges create a sense of personalization for users.

In the fourth quarter, the AVATR 07 will launch in both pure-electric and extended-range variants. Additionally, extended-range versions of the AVATR 11 and 12 will be introduced, offering “Tower Friends” (AVATR community members) more powertrain choices. Over the next three years, the brand plans to release a range of products including a high-end emotional intelligent new luxury sedan, mid-to-large 5-seat and 6-seat SUVs, a sports car capable of speeds exceeding 300 km/h, and an MPV, to meet diverse, all-scenario user needs.

Quick Review:

The announcement of the AVATR 012’s reservation price of RMB 700,000 likely surprised many, as it is significantly higher than the previous AVATR 011, marking another breakthrough in the brand’s highest pricing. However, as a limited-edition collaboration with Kim Jones, Dior’s Men’s Artistic Director, the vehicle features a unique liquid silver paint finish. The interior color scheme and materials exude a high level of class, and with improved rear configurations, it could serve well as an executive chauffeur-driven vehicle. Furthermore, the inclusion of CATL’s 5C Qilin battery significantly boosts charging speed.

As a new brand, it remains challenging to break through by collaborating with well-known designers, given the lack of deep cultural accumulation. Therefore, the results achieved by AVATR 012 will need to be seen. Naturally, the main sales volume will still come from the standard version priced at RMB 300,000.

Written by: Wen Tao Edited by: Wen Tao