BYD Leopard 8 design patent filed in India: What to expect from the PHEV SUV?

BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has filed a design patent in India for the Leopard 8. This move suggests a possible launch of the luxury off-roader in the Indian market. The Leopard 8 is a body-on-frame, plug-in hybrid SUV sold internationally under the Fangchengbao Bao 8 and Denza B8 names.

Key Highlights

• BYD files design patent for Leopard 8 SUV in India
• Leopard 8 features plug-in hybrid powertrain with 748 HP and 760 Nm output
• WLTP-certified all-electric range of 100km and total range of 1200 km claimed

Design Patent and Exterior Features

BYD submitted the design patent for the Leopard 8 in India on September 30, 2024. Authorities approved the patent on April 24, 2026. The patent images match the international version of the Leopard 8, which features a robust and muscular design. The SUV won a Red Dot Design Award in 2025 for its styling.

The Leopard 8 measures 5,195 mm in length, 1,994 mm in width, 1,905 mm in height, and has a 2,920 mm wheelbase. These dimensions are close to those of the Land Rover Defender 110. The front end includes rectangular headlights linked by a thin LED strip above a 6-slat grille. The bumper features black cladding and a prominent silver skid plate. The patent also shows three roof-mounted LIDAR sensors for the Huawei-made Qiankun ADAS suite and thick roof rails.

The side profile is boxy, with blacked-out pillars, large alloy wheels, squared-off cladding, and bulging fenders. Retractable door handles and ORVMs add to the modern look. At the rear, the Leopard 8 has a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, a flat rear windscreen, rectangular taillamps with C-shaped DRL signatures, and a bumper with heavy cladding and a large skid plate.

Interior and Powertrain Details

The interior of the Leopard 8 features advanced technology and luxury materials. The dashboard hosts a triple-screen setup, including a 12.3-inch driver’s display, a 17.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch passenger display. A four-spoke steering wheel and a centre console with storage, dual wireless charging pads, an aircraft-style gear selector, and a large armrest are also present. Additional features include ambient lighting, auto park assist, an 18-speaker sound system, and a fragrance circulation system.

The Leopard 8 is available as a 6-seater with second-row captain’s chairs or a 7-seater in most markets. In China, a 5-seater version is also offered. The SUV uses a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with a 36.8 kWh battery and a dual-motor setup.

The total output is 748 HP and 760 Nm, delivered to all four wheels through an e-CVT automatic transmission. The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in a claimed 4.8 seconds. The Leopard 8 offers a WLTP-certified all-electric range of 100 km. The total driving range is claimed at 1,200 km, based on CLTC testing.

Also Read: BYD Unveils New-Gen Atto 3 with Major Updates at Beijing Auto Show 2026

CarBike 360 Says

The BYD Leopard 8’s patent filing adds another intriguing premium SUV to India’s growing hybrid pipeline. With its rugged styling, large footprint, and high-performance plug-in hybrid setup, it could appeal to buyers looking for something more distinctive than a typical EV or ICE SUV. While a patent does not confirm a launch, it does suggest BYD is preparing for a broader premium push in India.