If you haven’t heard of Denza, you’re not alone. Unless you’re a regular reader of niche automotive columns, this name might be new to you. Denza, a subsidiary of the electric vehicle giant BYD, made headlines at the recent Munich Auto Show with its D9, but it’s still a relatively unknown brand outside of China. However, that might change soon with the introduction of its latest model, the Z9 GT, a high-end electric station wagon that’s catching the attention of car enthusiasts worldwide.
A Station Wagon with Astonishing Capabilities
Denza has been steadily expanding its lineup, which includes the N7 crossover, introduced earlier this year. But the real showstopper is the Z9 GT, a premium electric station wagon that was first unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show and officially showcased in July. This vehicle is designed to compete with heavyweights like the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, positioning itself as a serious contender in the high-performance EV market.
What sets the Z9 GT apart from its competitors is its use of the e3 platform, featuring three independent electric motors—one at the front and two at the rear. This configuration allows the vehicle to have rear-wheel steering, a feature that provides a significant advantage, particularly in tight spaces. In a video shared on Denza’s official Weibo account, the Z9 GT is shown navigating a narrow, winding road. Despite its substantial length of 5.18 meters, the vehicle maneuvers effortlessly, adjusting its rear end to align with the curves without the need for additional steering adjustments.
This innovative technology is particularly useful for making tight parking maneuvers in urban settings. While the rear-wheel steering system isn’t entirely new—BYD’s Yangwang U8 and U9 models also feature this capability—it’s still a rare and highly practical feature that enhances the Z9 GT’s appeal.
Nearly 1,000 Horsepower in an Electric Station Wagon
Beyond its impressive maneuverability, the Z9 GT is a powerhouse. According to the brand’s website, this electric station wagon can also move sideways like a crab, although it’s unclear if it can perform a complete 360-degree turn like the Yangwang U8. The Z9 GT comes in both plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions, but it’s the latter that truly stands out. Boasting a staggering 952 horsepower, the Z9 GT is poised to compete with the likes of the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra in the high-performance EV segment.
The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, according to Car News China. While the top speed hasn’t been officially confirmed, the Z9 GT is equipped with a Blade LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) battery, offering a range of up to 630 kilometers on the Chinese CLTC cycle, which translates to roughly 535 kilometers under the European WLTP standard. Charging times remain undisclosed for now, adding a layer of mystery to this already intriguing vehicle.
Pricing and Market Outlook
The Denza Z9 GT starts at 359,800 yuan (approximately 45,350 euros at the current exchange rate) for the fully electric version. However, this price is expected to increase significantly when the vehicle enters the European market, due to higher import tariffs on electric cars and the lack of ecological bonuses in countries like France. The first deliveries are set to begin in China in September.
As Denza prepares to launch the Z9 GT, it’s clear that this vehicle has the potential to shake up the EV market. With its blend of cutting-edge technology and raw power, the Z9 GT is not just a competitor to Tesla—it’s a glimpse into the future of high-performance electric vehicles.
My name is Noah and I’m a dedicated member of the “Jason Deegan” team. With my passion for technology, I strive to bring you the latest and most exciting news in the world of high-tech.