BYD’s luxury electric Denza Z9 GT is taking on a 9,300-mile journey from Rome to Hong Kong, retracing the historic route of Marco Polo. The trip aims to demonstrate the capabilities of BYD’s latest electric vehicle technology, including rapid charging and long-range performance.
Denza Z9 GT Leads the Marco Polo Drive
The Denza Z9 GT, a flagship model from BYD’s premium sub-brand, is at the center of a 43-day, 15,000 km (~9,300 miles) expedition known as the Marco Polo Drive. The journey, inspired by the legendary explorer’s route, is designed to promote sustainability, electric mobility, and global connectivity.
BYD has partnered with Patrick Zhong, Founding Manager of M31 Capital, and Professor Jeffrey Sachs, Director of the Center for Sustainable Development, to undertake this ambitious drive. The launch ceremony took place at the Palazzo Orsini Taverna in Rome, where BYD’s executive vice president Stella Li highlighted the significance of connecting cultures and advancing electric mobility.
Showcasing Advanced EV Technology
The Denza Z9 GT stands out for its technical achievements. It is powered by a 122.49 kWh Blade Battery and features BYD’s Flash Charging system. According to Denza, the Z9 GT is the “world’s longest pure electric driving range electric vehicle.”
The vehicle offers a CLTC range of up to 1,036 km (~643 miles) and a WLTP range of up to 599 km (~372 miles) on a single charge. With Flash Charging, the Z9 GT can charge from 10% to 70% in just five minutes, and a full recharge (10% to 97%) takes only nine minutes.
BYD describes the Z9 GT as bringing several “world-first and class-leading functions.” The electric version is equipped with three motors—one at the front and two at the rear—delivering a combined 1,140 hp (850 kW) and enabling 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) acceleration in 2.7 seconds.
Luxury and Connectivity Inside
Inside, the Denza Z9 GT features a floating 17.3-inch central touchscreen, two 13.2-inch driver and passenger displays, and a 50-inch augmented reality head-up display. The system is powered by BYD’s DiLink intelligent cockpit, which includes Google integration and an AI-powered companion.
The Z9 GT is built on BYD’s e3 platform and is available in both pure-electric and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions.
European Launch and Charging Infrastructure
Orders for the Denza Z9 GT opened in Europe in April, with a starting price of $133,231 (~AUD 188,586) (including VAT). Initial markets include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, with plans to expand to 30 countries by the end of 2026.
To support the Marco Polo Drive and future customers, BYD opened its first Flash Charging station in Italy and plans to deploy 3,000 Flash Chargers across Europe and another 300 in the UK by year’s end.
Why this matters
The Marco Polo Drive serves as a high-profile demonstration of the Denza Z9 GT’s real-world capabilities, particularly its long-range and rapid charging technology. BYD’s initiative highlights the growing viability of electric vehicles for long-distance travel across continents.
With the deployment of new charging infrastructure and expansion into European markets, BYD is positioning itself as a leader in both EV technology and global electric mobility.
What this means for buyers
Buyers in Europe and other regions can expect the Denza Z9 GT to offer a combination of luxury, performance, and advanced charging capabilities. Those considering a high-end electric vehicle with long-range and fast-charging features may find the Z9 GT a compelling option as BYD expands its availability and charging network.
Key Specs
- Battery: 122.49 kWh Blade Battery
- CLTC Range: 1,036 km (~643 miles)
- WLTP Range: 599 km (~372 miles)
- Charging (10% to 70%): 5 minutes (Flash Charging)
- Full Recharge (10% to 97%): 9 minutes (Flash Charging)
- Power Output: 1,140 hp (850 kW)
- Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 2.7 seconds
- Starting Price (Europe): $133,231 (~AUD 188,586)
Source
Images sourced from: electrek.co, topgear.com, wcevcar.com
