BYD’s YangWang U8 withstands repeated palm-tree drops and remains operational
BYD has carried out an unusual durability demonstration involving its flagship YangWang U8, releasing a large palm tree onto the SUV’s roof multiple times to highlight the vehicle’s structural strength. The test, staged as part of a promotional campaign, has generated attention for the extreme nature of the impact.
During the demonstration, the tree was lifted vertically and allowed to fall on the long-wheelbase U8L three times from progressively greater heights. According to figures shared by YangWang, the most severe drop produced an impact energy of 50.4 kJ, a force well beyond levels typically used in regulated safety testing. Chinese media compared the force to that of a heavy appliance falling from a high-rise building.
Despite the intensity of the impacts, the U8L’s core structure remained intact. The upper section of the bodywork above the doors sustained visible dents, but the roof maintained its shape, all windows stayed intact and the driver’s door continued to operate normally. The vehicle also remained mechanically functional and was driven away after the final drop.
YangWang noted that the objective of the demonstration was to show that the cabin can remain accessible after a severe, unpredictable impact, allowing occupants to exit and enabling rescue teams to reach them if needed.
The palm-tree drop adds to a series of public tests highlighting the U8’s capabilities, which have previously included tank-turn manoeuvres, short-distance water flotation and multi-directional movement enabled by its quad-motor hybrid powertrain that delivers over 1180 HP.
BYD has not indicated what further tests it plans to conduct, but the brand continues to position the U8 as a high-end SUV with an emphasis on extreme durability and advanced mobility features.
