California Gov. Newsom Test-drove Impressive YangWang U8 In China, Wants To Take Two Back To U.S

California governor Newsom test-drove impressive BYD’s YangWang U8, wants to take two of the ‘incredible SUV’ back to U.S.

During his weeklong tour of China, Newsom also met Chinese President Xi to promote cooperation in curbing climate.

The governor of California, Gavin Newsom, met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Wednesday during his weeklong tour of China to promote cooperation in curbing climate change.

Ahead of his meeting with Xi, Newsom traveled to Shenzhen on Tuesday, where he test-drove BYD’s eco-friendly Yangwang U8 luxury SUV and experienced its autonomous driving.

“This is another leap in technology, the next-level leap and I did not expect and I appreciate this technology,” he told reporters while behind the wheel of the BYD U8 electric SUV.

“Incredible, absolutely, and a beautiful car. The design, functionality, weight, and weight distribution.”

When asked if he wanted to take the $150,000 Yangwang U8 SUV back to Sacramento with him, Newsom jokingly said, “I want two of them.”

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BYD’s YangWang U8

The Governor of California test-drive of the U8 comes weeks after BYD Auto’s luxury electric car brand, YangWang, launched the Land Rover-inspired five-seater SUV into the market and announced that delivery will start this October.

U8 will be available in two versions : the Off-road Master Edition as well as Premium Edition – the latter priced at $150,000 (1,098,000 yuan), making it China’s most expensive mass-produced EV.

The 1,100-horsepower SUV already boast one of the best off-roading features in a car, including its ability to drive sideways and as well as ability to afloat on water like flash floods for up to 30 minutes.

In addition, the rugged U8 off-roader can also do 360-degree tank turn, plus the ability to keep driving at up to 75 mph (120 km/h) with a flat tyre – a feature that is seen on the run-flat tyres.

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