- Denza’s Z EV could feature three electric motors with over 900hp.
- Prototype was caught testing at the ‘Ring with semi-slick Giti tires.
- Fixed rear wing and diffuser suggest serious aerodynamic performance.
BYD isn’t content with simply selling affordable EVs and plug-in hybrids to the masses. Through its high-end Denza brand, the company is out to challenge Europe’s luxury carmakers, with vice president Stella Li even claiming its vehicles are “ten times better” than those from Porsche and BMW.
Read: BYD Boss Brags Z9 GT Is ‘Ten Times Better’ Than Premium Euro Rivals
Well, those words will soon be put to the ultimate test as Denza is preparing a new sports car targeting the likes of the upcoming Porsche 718 Electric and even the 911.
The upcoming model, known simply as the Z, has already been spotted at the Nürburgring, where a prototype of the all-electric coupe is undergoing testing. The question now is, what exactly can we expect from it?
Denza has been working on this sports model for quite some time, and earlier this year, unveiled it in concept guise. This prototype, despite the camouflage, looks virtually identical to the show car, which is a good thing.
It may not be the most beautiful two-door sports car on the market, but it definitely looks unique and should pack some serious performance.
Concept Car Looks
From a visual standpoint, the front end includes two large air intakes, a small central grille, and LED headlights. There’s also a prominent front splitter to aid in the aerodynamics, as well as a pair of small aero flaps below the bumper. Viewed from the side, the Z looks quite long and has Porsche RS-like louvers on the front wheel arches.
Baldauf
These spyshots also show it sitting on a set of sticky GitiSport GTR3 semi-slick tires, measuring a massive 325/30 at the rear and 275/35 at the front. Clearly, Denza is targeting top-notch performance, necessitating the use of semi-slick tires like these.
The rear of the car is the most intriguing. It features a massive fixed rear wing, a prominent diffuser housed within the bumper, and LED taillights.
What’s Underneath?
Many important technical details about the Z remain under wraps. Denza never specified what kind of powertrain the concept had, but local media speculates the production model will feature a triple-motor system.
The existing Z9 GT already uses this setup and delivers 952 hp. Some sources had suggested power for the Z would be capped at 536 hp, but we’d be surprised if Denza wanted its sleek estate to have more power than its first proper sports car.
If the Z has upwards of 900 hp, it’ll probably be able to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3 seconds or less. But, as evidenced by it being tested at the Nurburgring, it won’t just be about straight-line performance. This prototype has a massive set of brakes and will also include Denza’s trick suspension system.
This setup will include a double-wishbone setup at the front with magnetorheological shocks that can change the damping force in 10ms. We have no doubt this will work wonders on a demanding circuit like the Nordschleife.
A Tech-Focused Cabin
The cabin of the Denza Z should be similar to the concept. That likely means a digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment screen, and a small display for the passenger. There will also be loads of plush Alcantara and leather to ensure it has a really premium feel.
Stephen Hancock
