BYD has unveiled its new Yangwang ALTIOR luxury car, complete with reclining massage seats, a 39-speaker sound system and a claimed range of more than 620 miles, as Chinese manufacturers target Europe’s most prestigious motoring brands

Chinese car giant BYD has unveiled an electric limousine designed to take on Rolls-Royce, complete with a four-seat luxury cabin, built-in refrigerators and technology that could keep it afloat in an emergency.

The new Yangwang ALTIOR, revealed at a lavish launch in Abu Dhabi, is being positioned as a rival to the Rolls-Royce Ghost and Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, marking another step in China’s challenge to Europe’s most exclusive carmakers.

Measuring 5.6 metres long, the chauffeur-focused saloon is slightly longer than a standard Rolls-Royce Ghost and features rear-hinged doors, elaborate interior decoration and two reclining rear seats with built-in massage systems.

BYD claims the fully electric vehicle can travel more than 620 miles on a single charge under China’s official testing system, although that figure has yet to be independently established under European standards.

The ALTIOR also features technology designed to help it remain afloat if accidentally driven into water, alongside a system allowing it to turn almost on the spot.

Its four electric motors independently control the power delivered to each wheel, making adjustments more than 100 times a second to improve stability and handling.

The company says the technology can also help drivers maintain control following a tyre blowout at speed.

Inside, the ALTIOR is designed more like a private lounge than a conventional car, with rear passengers given their own entertainment, climate and seating controls.

The two rear seats offer a zero-gravity reclining position, leg rests and mechanical massage functions, while a relaxation mode automatically adjusts the lighting, blinds, music and even the cabin fragrance.

A 39-speaker Dynaudio sound system features tweeters that rise and rotate when the car starts, while a 21.4-inch overhead screen allows passengers to watch films or take part in video conferences.

There are refrigerators in both the front and rear, with the rear compartment capable of cooling or warming drinks and refreshments.

BYD has also incorporated traditional Chinese craftsmanship throughout the interior, including jade detailing, hand-embroidered upholstery, natural wood and pure-wool carpets.

The exterior design is said to draw inspiration from ancient Chinese ceremonial bronze vessels, while the elaborate front grille and illuminated welcome sequence are intended to give the car the presence associated with established luxury marques.

According to reports, the luxury car will cost in the region of £230,000 when it goes on sale in Britain.

Stella Li, BYD’s executive vice president, said: “ALTIOR brings together the depth of Chinese culture and our ambition to create something extraordinary for the people who will experience it.”

She added: “ALTIOR represents our vision for the future of Chinese luxury.”

READ MORE: China’s BYD overtakes Tesla as world’s largest electric car seller. The Chinese carmaker sold more battery-electric vehicles than its US rival in 2025 for the first time, as European and global markets tilt further towards lower-priced Chinese EVs.

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_{Main image: The new Yangwang ALTIOR, unveiled in Abu Dhabi, measures 5.6 metres long – slightly longer than a standard Rolls-Royce Ghost – and features an imposing design inspired by ancient Chinese ceremonial vessels. BYD hopes the electric limousine will challenge Europe’s most prestigious luxury carmakers. Credit: BYD / Yangwang}