The premium BYD brand, Denza, has officially launched in the European market. The company, which has already significantly expanded its global presence, is initially launching in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom, with plans to cover 30 countries on the continent by the end of 2026.
Two Key Models for Launch
For its European debut, Denza has chosen two models: the D9 DM-i minivan and the Z9GT Shooting Brake estate-coupe. The launch of these cars is synchronized with the international rollout of BYD’s new Flash Charging fast-charging system. It is planned that within the next 12 months, the company will install 3,000 such stations in Europe and another 3,000 in other markets outside of China.
Power and Technology of the Z9GT
The Z9GT Shooting Brake has long been on sale in China and is considered one of the most interesting family models. The fully electric version, built on the e³ platform, is equipped with a 122.49 kWh battery and three electric motors: one at the front (308 hp) and two on the rear axle (416 hp each).
The total system output is 1,139 hp and 1,210 Nm of torque, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.7 seconds. The top speed is 269 km/h.
The WLTP-estimated range is 599 km. Thanks to the 1,500 kW Flash Charging system, the battery can be charged from 10% to 70% in five minutes, and from 10% to 97% in nine minutes.
Hybrid Alternative
The plug-in hybrid version of the Z9GT combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine (170 hp) with three electric motors. The total power is 765 hp, and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 3.6 seconds.
This version has a 63.82 kWh battery, providing up to 203 km of range in pure electric mode or up to 805 km in a mixed cycle using the engine.
Both Z9GT versions come with standard equipment including ceramic brakes, rear-wheel steering, and dual-action DiSUS-A air suspension. The car is also capable of towing up to 2,000 kg. A rear-wheel-drive electric version with a longer range is expected later this year.
Minivan for the Family
The second model, the D9 DM-i, is an all-wheel-drive minivan with a hybrid powertrain. It offers up to 209 km of electric range and a combined range of up to 950 km, and also supports Flash Charging fast-charging technology.
Details regarding prices for the new Denza models for specific European markets have not yet been announced, but they are expected to be disclosed in the near future.
Denza’s entry into the European market is another step in BYD’s global expansion and indicates growing competition in the premium segment, especially in the electrified vehicle category. The success of these models will depend not only on technical specifications but also on the speed of fast-charging infrastructure deployment and the formation of trust in the new brand among demanding European consumers. Particular interest is sparked by the Z9GT, which, with its characteristics and shooting brake body style, is attempting to occupy a unique niche at the intersection of high-performance and practical cars.