BYD has opened its all-terrain circuit in Zhengzhou, marking one of China’s first facilities designed specifically for new-energy vehicles. The company plans to open additional circuits in Hefei and Shaoxing as part of its expansion strategy.
The Zhengzhou facility features eight distinct zones including an indoor sand dune, low-friction ring, wading pool, racetrack, off-road park and camping area. The indoor sand dune stands 29.6 meters high with a 28-degree slope and has been certified by Guinness World Records as the highest and largest dune-climbing facility for car testing. The structure uses 6,200 tons of sand designed to replicate the granular composition of the Alxa Desert.
A 70-meter water crossing pool is designed specifically for the Yangwang U8 model, allowing visitors to observe through underwater glass as the vehicle maneuvers in water. The facility also includes safety demonstration areas such as the Kick Plate, which simulates icy road conditions using wet, polished cement and movable suction plates to recreate loss of control scenarios.
The Low Friction Circle spans 44 meters in diameter and consists of 30,000 smooth basalt bricks with a thin water covering to maintain a friction coefficient similar to ice and snow conditions. The main racetrack extends 1,758 meters and includes nine curves plus a 550-meter straight section for acceleration testing.
The dynamic paddock covers 15,300 square meters and features scenarios including standard slalom courses, moose testing and automated parking demonstrations. An off-road section offers 27 scenarios ranging from beginner to advanced levels, designed to accommodate various skill levels including urban SUV drivers using intelligent all-wheel drive systems.
BYD’s upcoming Shaoxing facility will feature a 2,000-acre off-road area positioned 500 meters above sea level. The company has partnered with the Federation of Automobile and Motorcycle Sports of China to launch the “New Track Scheme,” which aims to reach one million users and develop 100 professional racers.
“BYD Circuits will accelerate the professionalization of China’s NEV racing events and reshape China’s automotive culture,” said Guojun Zhan, president of CAMF.
The circuits serve as both testing facilities and promotional venues, allowing visitors to experience electric vehicle capabilities across diverse driving conditions while supporting the broader adoption of new-energy vehicle technology in China.
