Leaked spy shots reveal China’s answer to the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo, but project status remains unclear
Fresh spy shots of the BYD Yangwang U7 GT have surfaced online, revealing what could have been China’s most potent luxury shooting brake. Based on the Yangwang U7 sedan, the GT variant transforms the four-door into a sleek shooting brake targeting the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo and Panamera Sport Turismo.
BYD Yangwang U7 GT camouflage removed by AI. Credit: Sugar Design
Shooting Brake Sophistication
The low-camouflage images reveal an extended roofline flowing into a hatchback-style rear section with frameless doors, flush handles, and a distinctive parabolic window line. The rear features a split spoiler, full-width LED taillights, and integrated diffuser—all emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency and sporting intentions.
Tech-Forward Interior and Monstrous Power
Inside, a triple-screen configuration includes a large vertical touchscreen flanked by displays for instrumentation and passenger functions. Premium materials like suede underscore the luxury positioning.
The real story lies underneath: BYD’s e⁴ quad-motor system produces a staggering 960 kW (1,300 horsepower) and 1,584 Nm of torque from four 240kW motors. That’s more power than a Bugatti Chiron, with sophisticated torque vectoring for optimal handling.
Revolutionary Suspension Technology
BYD’s DiSus-Z electromagnetic suspension replaces traditional dampers with four independently controlled actuators making 50 adjustments every 10 milliseconds. The system’s regenerative damping converts road energy back into battery charge—a brilliant engineering solution improving both efficiency and ride quality.
Competitive Positioning and Uncertain Future
With dimensions of 5,265mm long by 1,998mm wide, the U7 GT would compete directly against established European luxury shooting brakes. Reports suggest it included three lidar sensors and BYD’s “Eye of the Gods” autonomous driving platform.
However, according to automotive blogger @SugarDesignSugarDesign who published the leaked images, the U7 GT program may have been cancelled before production. This highlights the challenges facing Chinese manufacturers attempting to establish luxury credibility in niche segments.
Market Reality vs. Engineering Achievement
While the U7 GT represents impressive engineering—combining supercar performance, electromagnetic suspension, and advanced autonomous features—market realities may have prevented production. The shooting brake format appeals to enthusiasts but lacks broad market appeal necessary for manufacturing justification.
The Bottom Line
The BYD Yangwang U7 GT demonstrates that Chinese manufacturers possess engineering capabilities to compete with established European luxury brands. Whether cancelled or delayed, it showcases tremendous technical potential while highlighting the complex business realities of bringing ultra-luxury vehicles to market.
If the program has been shelved, it’s a loss for automotive enthusiasts who would have welcomed another high-performance option in the luxury EV space. The U7 GT’s combination of shooting brake practicality, supercar performance, and cutting-edge technology could have been genuinely compelling.
Earlier spy shots of the Yangwang U7 GT