BYD unveils its new electric behemoth: 3.1 tons, 130.15 kWh battery, 960 km range, and a 208-liter frunk

10/09/2026 13:30

Updated to

10/09/2026 13:30

BYD’s premium division continues to expand its lineup of electric vehicles as it grows its international presence. Denza is already available in Europe with its initial models, with more models set to follow soon. On September 14th, the fully electric version of the Denza N8L will make its commercial debut. This large, six-seater SUV is designed to compete directly with models like the Aito M9 EV and NIO ES8 in China’s competitive premium market.

Unlike alternatives that rely on extended-range thermal solutions to manage weight, Denza’s new model focuses on full electrification through a high-capacity battery and efficient use of the company’s mechanical and technological resources. By eliminating the combustion engine in the front, this design creates a front trunk, also known as a frunk, with 208 liters of capacity—far exceeding the typical front cargo spaces in its class.

130 kWh electric architecture with LFP chemistry

Beneath the massive and sleek body of the Denza N8L lies a second-generation lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack with a net capacity of 130.15 kWh, supplied by the FinDreams division. This energy reserve enables a theoretical range of 960 kilometers under China’s CLTC testing cycle, with an approved energy consumption of 15.3 kWh per 100 kilometers traveled. This is an exceptional figure considering the N8L’s size and, especially, its weight.

The inclusion of a battery of such size puts the N8L’s capacity 28% higher than that of rivals like the NIO ES8 and 30% higher than the Aito M9. However, this level of energy storage poses a serious issue when examining its technical specifications. Denza reports an empty weight of 3,110 kilograms, with a permissible gross weight reaching up to 3,430 kilograms. This figure is significantly higher than that of its plug-in hybrid version.

370 kW rear motor and impressive performance metrics

To move such a massive weight effectively, the electric N8L relies on a configuration with a single motor installed on the rear axle. It delivers 370 kW of power, equivalent to 504 horsepower. This powertrain enables the vehicle to reach a top speed electronically limited to 240 km/h. In the future, BYD plans to introduce more mechanical versions with up to three motors—two on the rear axle and one on the front. However, the initial offering includes only this rear-wheel-drive version.

In terms of dimensions, the N8L fits comfortably in the E-SUV segment: it measures 5,200 millimeters in length, 1,999 millimeters in width (without mirrors), 1,820 millimeters in height, with a wheelbase of 3,075 millimeters. Despite these generous exterior dimensions, the chassis features active steering on the rear axle, resulting in a compact turning radius of just 4.58 meters, which facilitates maneuvering in tight spaces. It may not be the easiest car to park, but it will at least be manageable in small areas.

Reference Prices and Market Strategy

The final price of the battery-powered version will be announced during its official launch on September 14. However, the initial reference model is the plug-in hybrid N8L, available at local dealerships starting at 319,800 yuan, which is equivalent to around 41,000 euros. Given that its direct competitors start at 498,000 yuan, roughly 64,000 euros at the current exchange rate, BYD may lower this price slightly to make the N8L the cheapest in the all-electric category. Its release coincides with a favorable market period for this series, which ended July with 4,460 units registered and a 11.4% monthly growth rate, strengthening Denza’s position in the luxury segment.