BYD is enlisting cinematic icon Daniel Craig to spearhead the European launch of its high-end Denza Z9 GT, a luxury electric shooting brake designed to redefine performance standards. Boasting a revolutionary “Flash Charging” system that provides 500 kilometers of range in just five minutes, the Z9 GT aims to dominate the premium EV segment. With nearly 1,000 horsepower and a record-breaking driving range, this new flagship model represents BYD’s aggressive expansion into the global luxury market as it continues to outpace major competitors like Tesla in regional registrations.
The partnership with Daniel Craig, best known for his 15-year tenure as James Bond, signals BYD’s intent to position the Denza Z9 GT as a sophisticated, high-performance alternative to traditional European luxury brands. Scheduled for its European debut on April 8, 2026, the Z9 GT is a tri-motor powerhouse delivering approximately 960 PS (nearly 1,000 hp). This massive output allows the vehicle to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than three seconds, placing it firmly in the territory of elite supercars.
At the heart of the Z9 GT is the new 122 kWh Blade Battery 2.0, which enables a driving range of up to 800 kilometers under WLTP standards for the rear-wheel-drive version. In its domestic Chinese market, the vehicle is rated for an even higher 1,036 kilometers under CTLC conditions, which the company claims makes it the longest-range pure electric vehicle currently in production. Beyond capacity, BYD has focused heavily on safety, recently demonstrating that the battery remains stable without thermal runaway for 24 hours even after being heated to 700°C.
The most significant technological leap featured in the Denza Z9 GT is the “Flash Charging” infrastructure. Utilizing stations capable of delivering 1,500 kW of power, the system operates on a “Ready in 5, Full in 9” principle. This allows the vehicle to charge from 10% to 70% in only five minutes—adding roughly 500 kilometers of range in the time it takes for a brief rest stop. Even in extreme weather conditions as low as -30°C, the vehicle can reach a 97% charge in just 12 minutes.
This launch comes as BYD continues its rapid ascent in the global automotive hierarchy. Last year, the company sold over 4.6 million new energy vehicles, surpassing Ford to become the sixth-largest automaker in the world. In Europe, the brand’s momentum is particularly strong, having recently overtaken Tesla in monthly registration numbers. Stella Li, BYD’s executive vice president, noted that the Z9 GT represents a milestone for the Denza brand, merging emotional driving dynamics with the industry’s most advanced charging and battery technology.