Yangwang, BYD’s luxury brand, has unveiled the Altior (an ultra-luxury electric vehicle) in Abu Dhabi. Expected to be available for pre-order in China at around $311,540 (2,080,000 yuan), the new vehicle features rear-hinged coach doors, a four-seat cabin, and a range of bespoke interior and exterior features.

Also known as the ‘Dingyao,’ the Altior is positioned to compete with other ultra-luxury vehicles like Rolls-Royce Ghost, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, and Maextro S800.

The Altior measures around 18.4 feet (5.6 meters) long and is effectively a four-seat executive limousine. But unlike competitors like Rolls-Royce, BYD’s new ultra-luxury car has one main competitive edge: its electric drivetrain and control systems.

Its main selling points include four independent electric motors, one on each wheel. This should give the Altior precise traction and vehicle movement.

It also reportedly comes with active suspension, meaning the vehicle uses cameras to detect approaching objects and other obstacles such as bumps. This allows the car’s suspension to anticipate rather than react to road conditions ahead.

The Altior has a claimed range of 621 miles (1,000 km), though this is based on China’s Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) testing. A more realistic range under the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) puts the range at something closer to 500 miles (805 km), though this has not been officially certified.

The Altior reportedly supports charging from 10 percent to 70 percent in approximately five minutes using megawatt-capable chargers, although BYD has yet to confirm the vehicle’s full charging specifications. The Altior’s drivetrain reportedly allows tank turns, crab walking, and stability control following tire blowouts.

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