Denza Z9 GT comes closer to launch after ADR approval

Key highlights:

• Denza Z9 GT clears ADR approval ahead of its late 2027 local launch
• Tri-motor powertrain delivers 850kW, 1210Nm and 2.7-second 0–100km/h
• Australian pricing could top out at $180,000, making it China’s priciest local car

The high-performance ultra-luxury Denza Z9 GT electric wagon with a “shooting brake” body shape recently cleared Australian Design Rule (ADR) approval last month, which removes the major regulatory hurdle standing between BYD’s premium wagon and its Australian launch.

The 850kW electric grand tourer was already scheduled for an Australian release in the third quarter of 2027, and its ADR approval now reveals several previously unconfirmed details, including its dimensions, weight and ground clearance.

Denza positions the Z9 GT against established performance cars such as the Porsche Taycan, BMW M5 Touring and Audi RS6 Avant.

Denza Z9 GT clears Australian certification

The Z9 GT will become the first model sold in Australia to use BYD’s next-generation Blade 2.0 battery and “Flash” charging technology.

The ADR documents confirm the Z9 GT’s previously reported 850kW tri-motor output, along with its dimensions and mass.

Massive power, but comfort comes first

Z9 GT EV’s tri-motor setup produces 850kW and a huge 1,210 Nm of torque, which helps the electric shooting brake sprint from 0–100km/h in a claimed 2.7 seconds.

The ADR approval documents do not reveal the battery capacity or driving range, but Denza has previously stated that the Z9 GT will use a 122.5kWh LFP battery and achieve a claimed 1036km CLTC range, which will be much less in WLTP.

Denza claims the Flash system can charge the battery from 10 to 97%in just nine minutes.

In May, BYD chief operating officer Mark Harland said Flash technology would eventually spread to other Denza models, “and further in the future, probably BYD”.

The first parts of the Australian FLASH charging network are being installed at Denza dealerships in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.

Despite those numbers, Denza is not pitching the Z9 GT purely as a sports car and puts greater emphasis on comfort, technology and refinement, while also aiming to undercut its European rivals on price.

Also read: 2027 Audi Q6 e-tron price cut brings more equipment

Spacious, high-quality cabin

The luxurious Z9 GT has a spacious, high-quality interior and features:

• Leather upholstery
• Wood trim
• Large rear-seat space helped by the 3125mm wheelbase
• Built-in refrigerator
• Massaging seats

The combination gives the Z9 GT a stronger focus on long-distance comfort rather than outright performance alone.

Advanced DiSus-A suspension debuts

The Z9 GT will also introduce Denza’s advanced DiSus-A air suspension system, which can even manage a tyre blowout at highway speeds by lifting individual wheels independently.

BYD also claims the suspension can increase stiffness by up to 200% in demanding situations such as high-speed cornering.

Australian model will be all-electric

The Z9 GT is offered in China with two main powertrain choices, BEV and PHEV, and these options branch into roughly five to six configuration variants, depending on the trim level.

Australia will initially receive only one pure electric powertrain. The PHEV version will not arrive at launch, but Denza Australia said it continues to evaluate the hybrid for a possible later release.

BYD’s premium subbrand has also not revealed Australian Z9 GT pricing, but it is expected to become one of the most expensive Chinese-made vehicles sold locally, with speculation putting its price between $110,000 and $180,000 before on-road costs.

That would potentially make the Z9 GT the most expensive Chinese-branded vehicle ever sold in Australia.