CHINESE manufacturer BYD has unveiled a new all-electric luxury limousine with a claimed range of more than 621 miles, reclining executive seats and technology designed to rival some of the world’s most expensive chauffeur-driven cars.

BYD has taken a significant step into the ultra-luxury market with the unveiling of the Yangwang Altior, a 5.6-metre electric limousine designed to compete with established names including Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Mercedes-Maybach.

Revealed in Abu Dhabi, the new four-seat flagship includes independently controlled electric motors at all four wheels, active suspension that anticipates road conditions and a rear passenger compartment designed around comfort and privacy.

Perhaps most surprising is the manufacturer’s claimed electric range of more than 621 miles, although this is measured under China’s CLTC testing procedure rather than the European WLTP standard. Real-world range, particularly at motorway speeds, is likely to be lower.

A new contender in luxury travel

At 5,600mm long and 2,030mm wide, the Altior is larger than many traditional executive saloons, with a 3,500mm wheelbase providing substantial interior space.

Its rear-hinged coach doors open to 90 degrees, allowing easier access to the passenger compartment, while umbrellas are incorporated into the doors.

Inside, the Altior features two individual executive rear seats with electrically operated leg rests, reclining functions and mechanical massage systems.

A relaxation mode automatically adjusts the seating position, closes the sun blinds and changes the cabin lighting and fragrance settings.

Rear passengers also benefit from a 21.4-inch overhead entertainment screen, which supports conference calls and screen sharing, along with a 39-speaker Dynaudio sound system.

A refrigerated compartment is incorporated into the rear centre console, while a separate refrigerator is provided at the front.

The cabin combines semi-aniline leather, wool carpeting and natural wood with traditional Chinese design elements, including jade detailing and embroidered upholstery.

Luggage capacity is quoted at 532 litres.

Technology beyond conventional luxury

Underneath its distinctive bodywork, the Altior uses BYD’s e⁴ electric platform, with four motors independently controlling power delivery to each wheel.

The system can adjust torque distribution more than 100 times per second, helping maintain stability in challenging driving conditions.

It also incorporates an active suspension system that reads the road ahead and adjusts the vehicle’s body control to reduce the effects of uneven surfaces.

Unusually, BYD claims the Altior can perform a tank turn, allowing it to rotate within a restricted space, and has an emergency flotation capability should it accidentally enter deep water.

These are unlikely to be everyday requirements for a chauffeur-driven limousine, but they demonstrate the engineering technology BYD is bringing to the luxury sector.

The Altior also features advanced assisted-driving technology, including motorway navigation assistance and automated parking functions.

Will it be available in the Europe?

Although the Altior has made its international debut in the Middle East, BYD has yet to confirm whether the limousine will be sold in Britain or elsewhere in Europe.

The company’s Yangwang luxury brand is expected to expand into European markets, potentially including the UK, but no official European launch date or pricing has been announced for the Altior itself.