Did you know about the Douyin creator (in case you were wondering, a Douyin creator is an individual or brand that produces content for Douyin (抖音) , the Chinese version of TikTok . These creators range from casual users to professional influencers (KOLs—Key Opinion Leaders) who build audiences through short-form videos, livestreaming, and highly integrated e-commerce features) from China who is undertaking an ambitious overland journey from Hebei, China, to Southeast Asia with a Yangwang U8 luxury 4×4 vehicle that is towing a high-performance Yangwang U9 electric supercar on a trailer. 

(Interestingly, this BYD Yangwang U8 luxury SUV has been on sale in the Chinese market since late 2023. It features four electric motors with a total output of 1197 hp, a range-extending 2.0-liter engine, a 1000 km range (CLTC), and unique “tank turn” and emergency floating capability).

While the U8 handles the overland rough terrain, the U9 is showcased in cities along the route dues to its low slung design and not not so favourable driving range with its battery system.

We have been informed that the Yangwang journey began in China, passing through Central Asia and crossing into Southeast Asia, before reaching the northern city of Alor Star in Malaysia where they made a pit-stop at Hong Tai Motor (a well known BYD dealer) and ultimately heading toward Singapore.

The Yangwang U9 is an electric hypercar built by BYD’s luxury performance brand, featuring a quad-motor setup. (the headline figures for this all-electric hypercar is that it packs a combined 1,300 hp and 1,680 Nm of torque from a motor in each of its four wheels. This in turn translates to a quoted century sprint time of just 2.36 seconds, before hustling its way to a top speed of 309 km/h).

By the way, this is NOT a promotional event by BYD Malaysia to get early interest in the Yangwang range of vehicles prior to its Malaysian launch.