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Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD has announced the European launch of its premium sub-brand, Denza, beginning with the Z9GT model.

The debut was confirmed during Milan's Brera Design Week, signaling a bold step forward despite increasing trade tensions between China and the European Union.

The Z9GT, expected to arrive in European showrooms in late 2025, will be offered in both all-electric and plug-in hybrid versions. While pricing remains under wraps, BYD says the vehicle will showcase its latest technology and design.

The Z9GT is built on the company's e3 Platform, which includes features like independent rear-wheel steering and a unique crab-walk motion capability for tight spaces.

According to CNBC, Denza was originally formed as a joint venture between BYD and Daimler (now Mercedes-Benz Group) in 2010, with Daimler later reducing its share to just 10%.

Since 2021, BYD has controlled the brand, updating its look and expanding its lineup in China.

Now, BYD is bringing Denza to European drivers with hopes of competing against established luxury brands like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.

BYD's D9 MPV Set to Enter Europe, No Launch Date Yet

Stella Li, executive vice president at BYD, said, "We're thrilled to be introducing Denza to European customers, starting here in Milan and accelerating as 2025 progresses."

The second model planned for Europe is the D9, a seven-seat MPV, though no launch date has been confirmed.

The timing of Denza's European entry is notable. Last year, the EU imposed a 17% tariff on BYD's electric cars, accusing China of offering unfair subsidies to its automakers.

Talks between Chinese and EU officials are ongoing, focused on easing tensions in the electric vehicle supply chain.

Despite challenges, BYD's international growth remains strong. The company sold over 206,000 cars overseas in the first quarter of 2025—double the number from the same time last year.

Overall, BYD sold nearly one million new energy vehicles in Q1 alone and no longer produces traditional gas-powered cars.

With record revenue of $107 billion in 2024, BYD also surpassed Tesla in total vehicle deliveries, Wired said. While most BYD vehicles are priced below Tesla's offerings, Denza is positioned to attract premium buyers in Europe.

Although BYD has no plans to launch Denza in the U.S., its move into Europe could help counter losses from other regions affected by global trade shifts.

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Europe