With the launch of its electric Z9 GT shooting brake (which resembles a Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo), Denza, the luxury division of Chinese manufacturer BYD, is making its debut on the European market. The aim is to serve as a technological showcase and win market share, particularly against German specialists. This is a major challenge for this very young brand, which has no track record to speak of apart from promising performance both on the road and in terms of charging power.
A sleek sports car to kick off the campaign
Amidst the gilded splendour of the Palais Garnier, which houses 150 years of French cultural and architectural history, Denza, a new brand from China, is determined to showcase its technological prowess to Europe. The setting is sumptuous for this launch, first in front of the media and then at a gala dinner bringing together leading business figures and hand-picked guests. Denza, an acronym for Diverse, Elegant, Novel, Zenith and Aspirational, embodies the premium division of BYD, the Chinese leader that sold over 4.5 million vehicles in 2025. To tackle the European market at the very top of the range, here is the Z9 GT, a dynamic 5.18-metre-long saloon with a shooting brake silhouette that is aesthetically reminiscent of the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo, the benchmark for electric sports cars.
A tech-savvy and connected welcome
The interior is designed to be luxurious and tech-savvy, centred around a huge 17.3-inch central screen, flanked by two 13.2-inch side screens. The seats are ventilated, feature a massage function, are heated and offer eight-way adjustment; they also incorporate active lateral support powered by the vehicle’s pneumatic system to provide better support when cornering. The flat floor does not compromise the limousine-style legroom, particularly as the wheelbase is generous (3.12 m). The infotainment software features Google and AI assistance. The audio system from French brand Devialet delivers 2000W through 20 speakers.
100% electric or Super hybrid
Under the bonnet, there are two powertrains: a DM-i Super Hybrid with 776 hp and a fully electric range of 203 km, and a 100% electric powertrain whose technical specifications are on a par with the best sports cars in its class. Thanks to its three electric motors and all-wheel drive, maximum power reaches 1,156 hp and 1,210 Nm of torque! The WLTP-rated range is not exceptional (600 km), but acceleration promises to be blistering: 0 to 100 km/h in 2.7 seconds (on a par with the Porsche Taycan Turbo Sport Turismo) and a top speed of 270 km/h. Manufactured by BYD, the second-generation Blade battery uses LFP (lithium iron phosphate) chemistry and Cell-to-Body technology, meaning it is integrated into the chassis, which allows for optimal balance and weight distribution. With a capacity of 122.49 kWh, the battery powers a 313 hp front motor and two rear motors positioned at the wheels, each producing 422 hp. A rear-wheel-drive version of the Z9 GT will complete the range by the end of 2026 with an announced range of 800 km.
Flash Charging system: record-breaking charging power
On the face of it, the technical specifications do not seem particularly extraordinary. However, Denza is introducing a charging system never before seen in a mass-produced car: FLASH Charging. A pure BYD innovation, the charging power can reach 1,500 kW via a single connector. At this power, the battery recharges from 10% to 70% in 5 minutes; from 10% to 97% in 9 minutes, and in just 12 minutes if the outside temperature drops to -30°C. These times are comparable to the time needed to fill up with petrol. Such a ‘lightning-fast’ charging system allows the driver to cover long distances with greater peace of mind. The spirit of sporty grand tourers is very much present in the Z9 GT. However, the number of FLASH Charging stations delivering such power is still scarce in Europe. Denza promises to develop 3,000 such points.
Agility and sideways movement
Whilst the Z9 GT promises to be at home on the open road and during charging, manoeuvring in town and in tight spaces will be made easier thanks to the independent steering of the rear wheels, which can turn up to 5°. The turning circle is significantly reduced, allowing the car to park in a tight space and even move sideways in ‘crab mode’. This electronic control system offers remarkable manoeuvrability for a car of this size… and promises some amazing demonstration videos in winding alleyways.
Unbeatable prices
By offering such features on its flagship model, Denza aims to quickly catch up with German premium brands such as BMW, Mercedes and Porsche. Whilst the technology still needs to be tested over the long term, it appears ready; however, the perceived quality, the attention to detail in the interior finish and the car’s overall styling remain a step below the European benchmarks. On the other hand, the Chinese prices are unbeatable. Prices start at €115,000 for the electric Z9 GT and €101,000 for the Super Hybrid version. Orders are now open, whilst the first Denza showroom is set to open in the coming days in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, in the Paris region.
