Denza Z9GT: More Speed Than Substance?

Chinese automaker BYD is making a significant push into the European market with its premium Denza brand, launching the technology-laden Z9GT model. Positioned as BYD's answer to Lexus, the Denza Z9GT aims to capture the attention of discerning European consumers with a suite of innovative features and impressive performance metrics.

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On point after point, it gets jaws to drop and eyes to become as big as golf balls. Esteemed and established competitors look nervously around.

The Denza Z9GT is equipped with a front electric motor producing 313 horsepower and two rear electric motors, each generating 422 horsepower, resulting in a combined system output exceeding 1100 horsepower. This power enables a blistering acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds. The vehicle also features four-wheel steering and advanced door mechanisms, with electric assistance for opening and closing. A lidar unit on the roof prepares the car for future autonomous driving capabilities, pending regulatory approval.

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The combined system effect is a bit over 1100 horsepower and going from standstill to 100 km/h should not take more than 2.7 seconds. Blindingly fast and impressive, but also completely unnecessary.

However, the Z9GT's impressive specifications are tempered by practical considerations. The vehicle weighs a substantial 2.9 tons, significantly heavier than competitors like the Porsche Taycan. While BYD highlights features like the tight turning radius facilitated by its dual rear motors and four-wheel steering, intended for navigating confined spaces, the effectiveness of its current driver-assistance systems is questionable. The adaptive cruise control with steering assist, for instance, is described as prone to "wobbling" between lane lines and braking abruptly before curves.

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How well it will handle the driving remains to be seen, but the adaptive cruise control with steering assist that is active today leaves a lot to be desired.

BYD's European launch strategy, including the choice of the Opera Garnier in Paris as a venue, underscores the seriousness of its ambitions. Yet, the Z9GT's sheer technological density and substantial weight present a challenge. Whether this blend of cutting-edge tech and raw power, coupled with a hefty price tag, will resonate with the European market remains to be seen, especially given the current limitations of its advanced systems.

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Has we touched on the fact that the Z9GT weighs 2.9 tons? No? Well, it does.