A software update recently delivered to BYD Denza Z9GT owners in China added a striking new ability. Drivers draw any shape they want on the central touchscreen, then sit back while the car executes a controlled drift that traces that exact path. Videos from the demonstrations show the vehicle holding steady powerslides through circles and more complex patterns, laying down thick ribbons of rubber while tire smoke rises around it.
During these runs, a passenger can sit in the front seat while the driver’s seat is empty. As soon as the car starts, no hands seek the steering wheel or feet press the pedals. The automobile regulates the steering angle, the amount of power provided to each wheel, and the brake inputs on its own, ensuring that the slide remains balanced and on track.
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Denza envisioned the Z9GT as a grand touring vehicle based on the e³ chassis. They outfitted it with three electric motors that combine to form an all-wheel-drive system. You get a total of 1,140 horsepower and 1,210 Newton-meters of torque, allowing you to go from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.7 seconds. When designing the Z9GT, the designers picked a shooting brake style because they wanted a low, broad stance that gives you a rooted feeling… and a long roofline that reaches back while still providing a respectable amount of cargo capacity. As a result, a performance car’s sleek shape remains intact. The curved bodywork and utilitarian elements help you stay stable at high speeds while being comfortable on extended journeys.
The car is powered by a battery pack with roughly 122.5 kilowatt-hours of capacity. The range you can travel on a single charge is determined by your driving style, though the CLTC cycle appears to be extremely durable. Charging is especially notable. Under perfect conditions, you can charge from 10% to 70% in around 5 minutes, and the car performs effectively even when the battery is virtually full.
The autonomous drifting feature is primarily dependent on how well the three motors perform together. Each manages torque individually at its own wheel. There are also contemporary body control systems and sensors that constantly check the vehicle’s attitude. Once you’ve drawn the line you want to follow on the screen, the program will take care of the rest, ensuring that the automobile stays on the line and follows it smoothly. The same systems that allow you to drive normally every day also contribute to keeping the drift consistent and repeatable.
Denza sent the update over the air, revealing how much of the car’s personality can be generated after it leaves the lot. The Z9GT already had high-performance hardware and fast charging to support it. This upgrade turns it into a grand tourer capable of completing a controlled, software-steered powerslide whenever you want, as long as you’re in a safe open space. Sales in China have skyrocketed since its launch, with thousands sold in the first few months. It’s also growing more popular in international markets. When comparing prices in China with Europe, the Z9GT (approximately $39,100 to $60,900 USD) appears to be a better deal.
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