BYD Yangwang ALTIOR debuts in Dubai, estimated at RM 1.22 million – how luxurious can a Chinese EV get?

BYD's ultra-luxury brand Yangwang has officially introduced the Yangwang ALTIOR (Known as Dingyao in China) to a global audience, with the flagship making its world premiere in Dubai on 7 November.

Drawing inspiration from the Chinese ding (鼎), an ancient ritualistic tripod or four-legged cauldron, the new model combines imposing proportions with an elaborate design and a four-seat luxury cabin. The ALTIOR is expected to cost over RMB 2 million (approximately RM 1.22 million).

Alongside the standard model, Yangwang has also opened pre-orders for the exclusive ALTIOR Shanhe Dingyun Limited Edition, which requires an RMB 300,000 (approximately RM 183,000) deposit and will be offered in limited numbers worldwide.

Exterior

The ALTIOR's design centres on a bold, upright front end, with a grille and lighting signature resembling a Chinese ding.

The grille features a dense arrangement of gemstone-like elements, gradually changing in size and layout to create a distinctive light-catching effect.

The headlights are made up of numerous crystal lighting elements, arranged to reinforce the same design theme. Together, they give the front end a distinctive appearance that sets the flagship apart.

Along the sides, the flagship limousine adopts rear-hinged coach doors, with the front doors opening to 80 degrees and the rear doors to 90 degrees for easier access to the cabin.

The ALTIOR measures 5,600mm long, 2,030mm wide and 1,590mm tall, with a 3,500mm wheelbase.

At the rear, the broad C-pillars and separate triangular quarter windows give the car a substantial presence while helping maintain space and visibility for rear passengers.

Interior

Inside, the ALTIOR features a brown-dominant colour scheme and a four-seat layout. 

The dashboard has a symmetrical design, with a wide panoramic display taking centre stage. A two-spoke steering wheel and a centre console with wireless phone charging and physical controls complete the front cabin.

The rear seats are the highlight of the cabin. Both feature a zero-gravity design, extensive powered recline and electric leg rests. The front passenger seat can also fold forward to create additional legroom for the rear passenger.

The rear centre armrest incorporates a crystal-style control dial and dedicated champagne glass holders. Even the door panels have been carefully considered, with built-in umbrella storage adding a practical touch to the otherwise opulent cabin.

Powertrain and chassis

The ALTIOR is expected to draw on Yangwang's flagship technologies, including BYD's e⁴ four-motor independent drive system and DiSus intelligent body control system.

The combination is intended to deliver the ride comfort expected of an ultra-luxury car and advanced handling capabilities. The model is also fitted with an emergency flotation function, designed to help the vehicle remain afloat in water.

Shanhe Dingyun Limited Edition

Making its debut alongside the standard ALTIOR, the Shanhe Dingyun Limited Edition takes the flagship's bespoke approach a step further with a series of exclusive design details.

Its exterior pairs brown and gold paintwork with twin amber-gold lines running 4.8 metres along the sides. The cabin adopts a brown-and-white colour combination, with limited-edition markings on the bodywork, door sill plates and dedicated badges.

Other bespoke touches include cloud-pattern engravings on the door panels, gold-finished speaker grilles and air vents incorporating gemstone and Hetian jade details.

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