Denza has released its first major over-the-air (OTA) software update for its B5 and B8 SUVs in the New Zealand market, but rather than just updating infotainment controls or silencing annoying driver alerts, the latest update actually brings significant upgrades to the vehicles' towing systems, off-road management software, and interior safety features.
The update introduces specific towing functionalities designed for different requirements in each model. For the B5, the software now includes cruise control for use while towing, a dedicated manual toggle to enter or exit towing mode, and a trailer weight selection feature that allows the vehicle to adjust performance parameters based on the load.
The B8 update adds cruise control for towing mode and a dynamic range estimation tool intended to provide more specific range data during transit.
Denza has also revised the traction control management algorithms for the Dual Mode Off-Road (DMO) platform used in both vehicles. These changes follow data collection and testing conducted at the formidable Beer O’Clock Hill in Queensland, Australia, and the updated algorithms are designed to better coordinate motor torque and wheel speed to affect stability and performance when driving in sandy conditions.
In-cabin technology updates include the integration of turn signal indicators into the Head-Up Display and the introduction of a driver password lock for both the B5 and B8. The B8 specifically receives a modification to the anti-jam resistance sensors for the second- and third-row folding seats, which is intended to stop the folding process if an obstruction is detected.
Denza currently has both the B5 and B8 on sale in New Zealand, with the D9 people mover on the way. The company also recently confirmed it will be offering the formidable Z9GT, a shooting Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo-style sport wagon that packs 850kW, a triple motor powertrain, and will hammer to 100km/h in 2.7 seconds.
While no on-sale date has been announced yet, the Z9GT will be the first vehicle sold in NZ to feature BYD’s next-generation Blade Battery 2.0 technology and "Flash" ultrafast charging, which has 1500kW peak capacity and is capable of charging the car from 10-97% in just 9 minutes.