The BYD Leopard 8, also known in some markets as the Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8, is BYD’s flagship full-size plug-in hybrid SUV. It blends luxury, family utility, and advanced intelligent off-road capability, positioning it as a significant competitor to traditional rugged SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser.
Powertrain and Performance
The vehicle operates on a powerful plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system, utilizing a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine in combination with dual electric motors. This setup generates a substantial combined power output of up to 550 kilowatts, which equates to approximately 738 horsepower. It delivers an impressive maximum torque of 760 Newton-meters and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 4.8 seconds.
The Leopard 8 has a total combined range of up to 1,200 kilometers (CLTC standard). For pure electric driving, it offers a range of approximately 100 kilometers (WLTC standard) or 125 kilometers (NEDC standard), powered by a 36.8 kilowatt-hour battery pack.
Platform and Off-Road Capability
Built on BYD’s DMO (Dual Mode Off-road) platform, the Leopard 8 is engineered for robust performance. It features a sophisticated dual-motor four-wheel-drive system and an “intelligent three-lock system” with electronic front and rear differential locks, ensuring optimal traction and control across diverse terrains. Higher trim levels are equipped with the advanced DiSus-P hydraulic body control system, allowing the driver to adjust the ground clearance up to 310 millimeters for enhanced off-road versatility.
Advanced Technology
The Leopard 8 represents a major technological leap for BYD, being the first model to incorporate Huawei’s sophisticated intelligent driving assistance systems, specifically the Qiankun ADS 3.0 solution. This system includes features like a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor for advanced autonomous driving capabilities, such as urban Navigate on Autopilot (NOA).
The cabin is designed for a premium experience, featuring a three-screen cockpit that includes a large 17.3-inch central infotainment system and a 12.3-inch passenger screen. A high-resolution, 50-inch augmented reality head-up display (HUD) is also available. Luxury amenities include an 18-speaker audio system, optional cooling compartment, and massage seats.
Dimensions and Availability
The Leopard 8 is a large vehicle, measuring over 5 meters in length (5195 mm), offering flexible seating configurations for six or seven passengers.
Charging is efficient, supporting 120 kW DC fast charging that can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in about 16 minutes.
The vehicle is slated for market launch in late 2024 in China, with exports to markets like the UAE planned for 2025.