This is China's electric Alphard: Denza D9 sold 3,000 units in 30 minutes, available as EV or PHEV

At a quick glance, the 2022 Denza D9 is clearly inspired by none other the Toyota Alphard and it has been a hit in China, with 3,000 units booked within 30 minutes of its launch in China. 

The name Denza may not be well known among Malaysian readers, but the brand is actually a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz. 

For the Chinese market, the 2022 Denza D9 MPV is available with two powertrain options.

The first is a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid (PHEV), featuring a turbocharged 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine hooked up to front-mounted electric motor. The AWD version of the D9 MPV adds a second electric motor on the rear axle.

As for the second powertrain, it is a pure electric (BEV) version.

Now, Denza did not provide power output figures for its new MPV, but was keen to point out that the hybrid versions can offer a driving range between 970 km to 1,040 km, while the BEV version offers a range of up to 600 km. Both driving range figures are quoted under the CLTC test cycle.

On top of that, Denza also mentioned that the electric D9 MPV offers DC fast charging at 166 kW. A quick 10-minute charging will provide a 150 km range, whilst charging from 30% to 80% takes just 30 minutes.

Dimension wise, the Denza D9 MPV is 5,520 mm long, 1,960 mm wide, 1,920 mm tall, and offers a 3,110 mm long wheelbase. For context, this puts the Denza D9 larger than the Toyota Alphard in every way, down to its wheelbase.

Every variant of the 2022 Denza D9 MPV sits 7 comfortably. So much so that Denza claimed that its latest MPV is able to sit 7 180-cm tall adults in comfort, on top of 7 luggages in tow.

For those seeking a bit more exclusivity can opt for the Denza D9 Founder’s Edition. Limited to just 99 units, this variant only sit 4 occupants – much like the uber luxurious Lexus LM.

In terms of safety, the Denza D9 offers no less than 9 airbags to keep its occupants safe, as well as L2+ semi-autonomous driving.

Prices range from RMB 335,000 (~RM 220k) to RMB 445,000 (~RM 290k) for the PHEV variant, while the BEV variants are priced between RMB 390,000 (~RM 254k) to RMB 460,000 (~RM 300k). As for the D9 Founder’s Edition, it goes for an eye-watering RMB 660,000 (~RM 430k).