BYD’s Denza Z9 and Z9GT now offer up to 1,068 km and 1,036 km CLTC range, respectively, thanks to new 122 kWh battery options revealed in Chinese MIIT filings. These updates position Denza as a leader in long-range luxury EVs, challenging premium brands with family-friendly wagons that exceed 1,000 km on a single charge under CLTC testing. For EV buyers seeking maximum range without frequent stops, this sets a new benchmark in the premium segment.
Background
Denza, a premium brand under BYD launched in 2022, has rapidly climbed China’s EV market with models blending luxury, tech, and performance. Backed by BYD’s Blade Battery tech and e-Platform 3.0, Denza targets affluent buyers with vehicles like the Z9 series—shooting brake-style wagons offering sedan dynamics and SUV practicality. The Z9 debuted in late 2025, with the Z9GT following as a high-performance variant. Recent MIIT filings confirm battery upgrades, boosting range significantly while maintaining Denza’s focus on advanced driver aids like crab-walk steering on the YiSanFang platform.
BYD’s vertical integration gives Denza an edge in battery scaling, with production at scale enabling larger packs like the 122 kWh unit. This positions Denza ahead of rivals in range wars, though real-world figures under WLTP or EPA remain unconfirmed.
Key Specifications
| Model | Battery | Range (CLTC) | Powertrain | Power (hp) | 0-100 km/h |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Z9 (RWD) | 102 kWh | 905 km | Single-motor | 496 | Not specified |
| Z9 (RWD) | 122 kWh | 1,068 km | Single-motor | 496 | Not specified |
| Z9GT (AWD) | 102 kWh | 880 km | Tri-motor | 1,140 | 3.4 s |
| Z9GT (AWD) | 122 kWh | 1,036 km | Tri-motor | 1,140 | 3.4 s |
| Z9GT PHEV | 63.82 kWh | 400 km EV | 2.0T + Tri-motor | 858 | 3.6 s |
Dimensions (Z9GT): 5,180 x 1,990 x 1,500 mm; Wheelbase: 3,125 mm; Weight: ~2,875 kg. Top speed: 240-270 km/h. Charging: Up to 270 kW DC.
Powertrain and Battery Upgrades
The star is the new 122 kWh Blade Battery, pushing Z9 to 1,068 km CLTC—over 660 miles—ideal for cross-country drives in China. Z9GT reaches 1,036 km, balancing hypercar power (1,140 hp from 230 kW front + dual 310 kW rear motors) with endurance. Base single-motor setups deliver 496 hp across both models. The PHEV Z9GT’s 63.82 kWh pack yields 400 km pure EV range, doubling prior versions for hybrid flexibility.
Design and Tech Features
Exterior tweaks include roof-mounted LiDAR for better ADAS visibility and Z9GT’s active rear spoiler. Inside, dual fridges (front: 4L to -6°C; rear: 10L), panoramic glass roof, and 128-color ambient lighting define luxury. YiSanFang chassis enables crab-walk and tank turns with a 4.62m turning radius.
Performance Analysis
With 1,140 hp, Z9GT outpowers most supercars (0-100 km/h in 3.4s), yet its 2,875 kg curb weight demands sophisticated torque vectoring. Range claims shine under CLTC, but highway tests may show 20-30% less. Unanswered: Real-world efficiency, WLTP figures, and global pricing.
Comparison
| Model | Range (CLTC equiv.) | Power (hp) | Price Est. (China) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denza Z9GT | 1,036 km | 1,140 | TBC |
| Zeekr 001 | 620 km | 1,000 | ~$50,000 |
| Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo | 500 km (WLTP) | 1,019 | ~$130,000 |
| Mercedes EQS SUV | 660 km (WLTP) | 516 | ~$120,000 |
Z9GT crushes on range and power at likely half the price of Europeans, though build quality and software maturity lag.
Verdict
The updated Denza Z9 duo redefines long-range luxury wagons, perfect for Chinese families wanting supercar thrills and 1,000+ km range. Tech enthusiasts and performance seekers will love it, but global buyers await export confirmation and independent tests. Strong buy for range-focused EV adopters; watch for real-world validation.
