BYD Yangwang Altior electric sedan unveiled as luxury rival to Rolls-Royce Phantom

China’s BYD has launched the Altior, the first flagship sedan from its ultra-luxury sub-brand Yangwang. The model, whose name derives from the Latin word for “higher,” is positioned to compete with high-end electric sedans such as the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

The exterior design references the ancient Chinese bronze vessel known as a “ding,” with a jewelled grille and LED lighting that activates as the vehicle approaches. The sedan rides on 21-inch wheels and features coach-style doors that open up to 80 degrees in the front and 90 degrees in the rear, with rear-hinged rear doors and bespoke umbrellas inspired by the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.

Measuring 5,600 mm in length, 2,030 mm in width and 1,590 mm in height, the Altior offers a spacious cabin for four passengers. Interior materials include Hetian jade-derived accents, Suzhou embroidery, full-grain leather, pure wool floor mats and natural wood trim. A full-width touchscreen dominates the dashboard, while the second-row seats are aviation-style zero-gravity seats equipped with a four-head massage system. Additional amenities comprise a 39-speaker Dynaudio audio system, a 21.4-inch overhead entertainment screen, compact refrigerators in the front and rear, and 532 litres of boot space.

Powered by BYD’s second-generation “Blade” battery on the e4 platform, the Altior claims a CLTC range of more than 1,000 km and supports fast “Flash Charging,” though specific charging times were not disclosed. The vehicle features an independently controlled motor for each wheel, a “tank-turn” capability that allows 360-degree rotation on the spot, and a water-float and steering function for emergencies. Advanced systems include the next-generation DiSus active body control and a “God’s Eye A” navigation suite.