BYD, the leading car manufacturer in China, recently unveiled its new flagship models, the BYD Tang L SUV and Han L sedan. These two vehicles are the brand’s pride and joy, boasting up to 1,086 horsepower. The official launch event focused on the design and features of the Tang L and Han L, emphasizing their significance as carriers of Chinese culture.
In 2024, BYD achieved the milestone of becoming the best-selling car maker in China, with sales of 4.27 million vehicles. Additionally, the company has established itself as the world’s largest manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), with exports reaching 433,000 units. He Zhiqi, the Chief Operating Officer of BYD, highlighted the company’s commitment to quality and innovation, aiming to solidify its position in the market with these new flagship models.
The BYD Han L and Tang L are part of the brand’s Dynasty series, succeeding the popular Tang crossover and Han sedan. The Tang SUV, introduced in 2015, was the second car in the Dynasty series after the BYD Qin. On the other hand, the Han sedan made its debut in 2020 and quickly became a bestseller for BYD. The Tang SUV was the first Chinese NEV to achieve a zero-to-hundred acceleration time of around 4 seconds, while the Han sedan could reach 100 km/h in just 3 seconds.
The names of the Han L and Tang L pay homage to two influential Chinese dynasties known for their prosperity. The design of these vehicles is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and history, reflecting the brand’s commitment to incorporating traditional elements into modern automotive design. Lu Tian, General Manager of the BYD Dynasty sales division, proudly announced that the cumulative sales of the Dynasty series had reached 7 million units over the past decade.
Chief Designer Wolfgang Egger described the Han L and Tang L as more than just cars – they are embodiments of Chinese culture. The new generation of these vehicles features the latest iteration of the Dynasty design language, known as Loong Face. From the Dragon Mustache grille to the Phoenix-inspired taillights on the Han L and the bamboo weaving-inspired elements on the Tang L, every detail reflects Chinese aesthetics and symbolism.
The interior of the Han L and Tang L is designed to provide a spacious and luxurious experience, drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese clothing. The vertical and horizontal layout enhances comfort and ergonomics, creating a harmonious blend of modern technology and cultural heritage.
In terms of dimensions, the BYD Han L measures 5050/1960/1505 mm with a wheelbase of 2970 mm, while the Tang L comes in at 5040/1996/1760 mm with a wheelbase of 2950 mm. Both vehicles offer ample shoulder space for passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride for all occupants.
Powering the Han L and Tang L are all-electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains, delivering impressive performance figures. The electric models offer up to 810 kW (1,086 hp) for 4WD variants, making them some of the most powerful vehicles in their class. With a starting price of around 300,000 yuan (approximately $40,950 USD), these vehicles are set to make a splash in the Chinese market before expanding overseas as ambassadors of Chinese culture and innovation.