On June 30, the Shen-Zhong Canal (also known as the Shenzhong Link) was put into operation, a crucial milestone in China’s Greater Bay Area. After overcoming seven years of engineering challenges, it will stretch over 24 km and connect Shenzhen and Zhongshan (cities in Guangdong province) with a sea link that will include a tunnel that will be among the largest and widest submerged tunnels in the world. This will reduce the previous 120-minute travel time to just 30 minutes. It will cost about 50 billion yuan (6.87 billion USD).
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BYD, headquartered in Shenzhen, gathered a convoy of 130 BYD Yangwang U8 (see specifications) on the opening day of Shen-Zhong Channel. More than 80% of the participants were entrepreneurs, partners or senior executives, highlighting their role as supporters and colleagues in China’s manufacturing sector. The U8’s journey on Shen-Zhong Channel symbolizes China’s determination to overcome technological barriers in new energy vehicles.
Built on BYD’s 20 years of innovation, the Yangwang U8 features advanced technologies. The e4 platform with DiSus suspension can perform tank turns and float on water. The luxurious interior includes leather, a 70” AR HUD and multiple screens, including a 23.6” instrument cluster and a 12.8” primary monitor.
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Powered by a 4WD system with four motors delivering 880 kW (1,180 hp) and 1,280 Nm of torque, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds. Equipped with a 49.05 kWh battery with a CLTC range of 180 km and a combined range of 1,000 km, it charges from 30% to 80% in just 5 minutes. With 38 sensors, including lidars, radars and satellite communications on board, it ensures connectivity even in remote areas, with an optional drone docking station.
The U8, priced at 1,098,000 yuan (USD 151,000) with more than 7,000 units sold, is China’s most expensive mass-produced car, a testament to the industry’s progress.
For the Shen-Zhong Canal, construction began on the Western Artificial Island in December 2016 and the Eastern Artificial Island in December 2017. Construction of the bridge and tunnel followed in the following years, with milestones such as completing the E7 tube section and topping out the Zhongshan Bridge tower in 2021. The project culminated in 2024 with the completion of paving, inspections, and the name change of the Shen-Zhong Bridge.
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More than 220,000 vehicles visited the Shen-Zhong Canal in the first two days of operation, underscoring its significance in showcasing China’s development. While the U8 represents luxury and intelligence, and embodies the courage to explore new frontiers.