Chinese automaker BYD has unveiled the Denza Z, an all-electric roadster with 1,000 horsepower and a 700 km range, directly challenging the long-delayed Tesla Roadster. The car targets a 2025 launch in China and could reach Saudi Arabia and the UAE by 2026.
Chinese automaker BYD has unveiled the Denza Z, an all-electric roadster with 1,000 horsepower and a 700 km range, directly challenging the long-delayed Tesla Roadster. The car targets a 2025 launch in China and could reach Saudi Arabia and the UAE by 2026.
What is the Denza Z?
The Denza Z is a fully electric roadster designed to compete with elite electric sports cars like the Rimac Nevera and Tesla Roadster. It is built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 and uses a Blade LFP battery pack with a capacity of 100 kWh. Ultra-fast charging can add 400 km of range in just 15 minutes.
How much power and performance does it offer?
The rear-mounted electric motor produces 1,000 hp (750 kW) and 1,200 Nm of torque. The Denza Z accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 300 km/h. It features rear-wheel drive and four-wheel steering for improved handling.
Key specifications
- Motor: Rear electric, 1,000 hp
- Battery: 100 kWh LFP (Blade)
- Range: 700 km (NEDC)
- Fast charging: 400 km in 15 minutes
- 0-100 km/h: 2.9 seconds
- Top speed: 300 km/h
- Weight: ~1,800 kg
How does it compare to the Tesla Roadster?
Tesla announced the second-generation Roadster in 2017 with similar specs (0-60 mph in 1.9 seconds, 1,000 km range), but it remains in development. The Denza Z is expected to reach the Chinese market in 2025, making it the first production electric hyper-roadster from China. According to InsideEVs, BYD targets a starting price of USD 200,000 (approx. SAR 750,000), putting it in direct competition with the Tesla Roadster’s expected price.
When will the Denza Z arrive in Saudi Arabia and the UAE?
BYD has not yet confirmed export plans for the Denza Z to Gulf markets. However, with BYD’s expansion in the region through partnerships with Al-Futtaim in the UAE and Abdul Latif Jameel in Saudi Arabia, the car could arrive by 2026 if a global launch proceeds. The car’s advanced battery cooling system makes it suitable for the Gulf climate, though range may drop 15-20% in extreme summer heat.
Is the Denza Z worth waiting for?
If you are an electric sports car enthusiast, the Denza Z offers exceptional specs at a competitive price. However, it is a new Chinese model with limited service network outside China. The Tesla Roadster promises longer range (1,000 km) and slightly better performance, but has been delayed repeatedly. Your choice depends on how soon you want to experience a hyper-roadster.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Denza Z be launched?
The Denza Z is expected to launch in China in 2025, with global exports including the Gulf region possibly starting in 2026.
How much will the Denza Z cost in Saudi Arabia?
The expected starting price is USD 200,000, which is approximately SAR 750,000 at the current exchange rate of 3.75 SAR per USD.
Does the Denza Z compete with the Tesla Roadster?
Yes, directly. The Denza Z offers 1,000 hp and 700 km range at a similar price to the Tesla Roadster (USD 200,000). However, Tesla promises 1,000 km range and faster acceleration (1.9 seconds), while BYD reaches the market first.
Is the Denza Z suitable for the Gulf climate?
Generally yes, thanks to an advanced battery cooling system. However, electric range may drop by 15-20% in high temperatures above 45°C. It is advisable to test the car in similar conditions before purchase.
Sources
- InsideEVs — BYD’s Denza Z Is The 1,000-HP Roadster Tesla Refuses To Build
