BYD’s premium arm Denza has unveiled its latest concept vehicle, the Denza Z, at the Shanghai Auto Show. This sleek, high-tech electric coupe appears to be gunning for the likes of the Porsche 911 and upcoming electric Cayman.
While officially still a concept, the Denza Z looks production-ready and continues the brand’s ambitious tilt at the premium electric vehicle (EV) space. Following the Z9 GT - a Panamera-sized triple-motor fastback - the Z seems tailored to stir interest among buyers looking beyond the German establishment.
Though roughly 911-sized and equipped with two rear seats, the Denza Z doesn’t mimic Stuttgart’s sports car too closely. Its dramatic styling cues draw more from Lotus and Lamborghini, featuring a low-slung front splitter, substantial rear diffuser and a towering wing, which are design elements that suggest track intent but are unlikely to appear on volume production variants.
Inside, the Z departs from tradition. Its steer-by-wire system eliminates the mechanical link between the steering and front axle. This enables a fold-away steering wheel, which tucks under the dashboard when not in use - a feature clearly aimed at users who might value workspace flexibility over traditional driver engagement.
Underneath, the concept rides on a double-wishbone front suspension and features magnetorheological dampers. These advanced shocks can alter damping force in just 10 milliseconds, adapting instantly to changing road conditions for optimal comfort and control.
No official powertrain specs have been released, but it’s likely the Z borrows from its Z9 GT sibling, whose triple-motor configuration produces a potent 710 kW. That would place the Z firmly in high-performance EV territory, assuming production plans follow through.
With Mercedes-Benz no longer involved in the brand, BYD is pushing Denza into Europe with intent. BYD executive Stella Li recently told Car Magazine the brand’s new lineup is “ten times better” than competing models. A bold claim, to be sure, but one consistent with Denza’s clear confidence in its tech-heavy offerings.
Whether or not the Denza Z reaches showrooms in its current form, it’s a statement of intent: a new player with serious aspirations in the high-performance EV segment.
