In the crosshairs of BYD, the Porsche 911 may start to tremble

It’s a common saying that a Porsche 911 is absolutely unafraid of any rolling vehicle. But even good customs can be lost.

BYD – the world’s leading manufacturer of electric vehicles, if that still needs to be said – is about to shake up the legendary German sports car with an electric coupe stamped Denza. The grand reveal is expected from April 18 to 25, 2025, at the Shanghai Auto Show. Yes, it’s already tomorrow!

After impressing with the exhilarating YangWang U9, BYD teased seven months ago on social media a model designed to compete with the Porsche 911. Today, we have a photo that appeared on Weibo and widely circulated on social networks showing a camouflaged prototype transported on a truck. While nothing guarantees that it is indeed the expected car and some details, like the headlights or rear bumper, are missing, the sleek and streamlined silhouette of the vehicle leaves no doubt: we’re talking about a real sports car.

This future model will be marketed under the name Denza, formerly a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz. Since BYD took full control, Denza has established itself as the spearhead of its high-end strategy. According to initial information, this sports car could seat four, similar to the Porsche 911, while sporting an aggressive and stylish design.

BYD’s stylistic shift owes much to Wolfgang Egger, a renowned designer who has worked with Audi, Lamborghini, and Alfa Romeo. His influence is evident in the prototype, inspired by the Fang Cheng Bao Super 9 coupe unveiled in April 2024. A mix of advanced technology and European refinement, this model offers a taste of BYD’s potential.

Under the hood, a tri-motor setup borrowed from the Denza Z9 is expected, delivering 952 horsepower, double the power of a hybrid Porsche 911. All at an unbeatable price: approximately 38,500 euros in China, or half the price of a basic hybrid 911. An equation that promises to revolutionize the segment.

If the launch begins in China, BYD does not hide its European ambitions. With its spectacular value-for-money ratio and bold design, this electric coupe could shake up the traditional manufacturers as soon as it hits the market. Stay tuned in April 2025 to discover this serious contender for the throne of electric sports cars.

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