Shenzhen, China, September 16, 2024 — BYD has once again made waves in the automotive market with its new brand Fang Cheng Bao, as the company prepares to launch its flagship hybrid SUV, the Leopard 8. The highly anticipated vehicle, which has already drawn comparisons to the Toyota Land Cruiser 300, promises even more impressive off-road capabilities according to its developers.
The company revealed the Leopard 8’s interior for the first time, showcasing a futuristic design inspired by space travel. Equipped with a powerful plug-in hybrid system, the SUV combines cutting-edge technology with environmental consciousness. The vehicle is expected to hit the market before the year’s end, with a starting price around $70,000.
The Leopard 8 continues the bold design elements of its predecessor, the Fang Cheng Bao 5. Its rugged appearance, highlighted by an angular body and massive bumpers, evokes a sense of classic SUVs. At the rear, the spare wheel is mounted on the boot lid alongside rectangular taillights, completing its distinctive look. The SUV’s dimensions are equally impressive: a length of 5159 mm (excluding the spare wheel), width of 1994 mm, height of 1875 mm, and a wheelbase of 2920 mm. With a roof rack, the height reaches 1905 mm.
Shorter drivers may find exiting the vehicle challenging due to its height, but the inclusion of electric side steps ensures convenience. Buyers will have the option of 20 or 21-inch wheels, enhancing the SUV’s commanding presence and off-road agility. Fang Cheng Bao has fitted the Leopard 8 with its innovative Dual Mode Off-road (DMO) truck platform, first tested on its junior model.
The Leopard 8 boasts a front longitudinal engine and a fully independent suspension system with double wishbones in the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. It offers all-wheel drive and several off-road features, including low-range gearing, three differential locks, and the Yangwang U8’s Dissus-P intelligent hydraulic system.
This advanced system allows for a 140 mm variation in ride height and automatically adjusts suspension height based on speed and driving conditions, with a minimum ground clearance of 220 mm. The intelligent suspension system also offers three levels of stiffness adjustment and continuous active damping, using lidar and cameras to detect road conditions and predict potential road loads. The approach and departure angles of 30 and 29 degrees respectively ensure strong off-road performance.
In addition to its off-road prowess, the Leopard 8 is a technological marvel. It comes equipped with lidar for advanced driver assistance systems. A strategic partnership between BYD Fang Cheng Bao and Huawei will introduce Huawei’s Smart Driving ADS 3.0 system in the SUV, bringing new levels of intelligent driving.
Under the hood, the Leopard 8 uses a 2.0-liter gasoline turbo engine producing 272 hp, which primarily functions as a generator to charge the traction battery. It can also power the front wheels via an electromechanical CVT, offering greater flexibility. The main propulsion comes from two electric motors: the front delivering 272 hp and the rear delivering 408 hp, together embodying the cutting edge of SUV innovation.
The Leopard 8 also features BYD’s Blade battery, with a 36.9 kWh capacity providing up to 100 km of electric range. Weighing in at 3305 kg with a gross weight of 3900 kg, the SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, with a top speed of 180 km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.9 liters per 100 km, and with a fully charged battery and full tank, the vehicle has a range of approximately 1,200 km. It can also tow up to 2.5 tons, making it ideal for long-distance travel.
Inside, the Leopard 8 reflects both elegance and innovation. A 15.6-inch central multimedia screen offers intuitive control of the vehicle’s features, supported by two additional 12.3-inch screens: one for the digital instrument panel and another for the front passenger. The cabin is designed for comfort, with two wireless charging stations and a retractable gear selector referred to as a “starship control lever.” The second row offers the option of two captain’s chairs with electronic adjustments or seating for three, while the third row provides two additional seats.
Passengers have access to a climate control system and multimedia options via two screens located in the central tunnel. The soft light brown leather upholstery and panoramic roof add a luxurious touch, while the 1100-liter trunk capacity (with the third row folded) ensures ample storage space for long journeys.
Fang Cheng Bao’s Leopard 8 is set to hit the market by the end of the year, with its main competitors being the flagship models from the Tank brand. With a blend of advanced technology, robust performance, and sophisticated design, the Leopard 8 aims to make its mark on the global automotive stage.
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