BYD has filed a design patent in India for its rugged BYD Leopard 8, hinting at a possible future entry in the country. The design application was originally filed in September 2024 and has now been approved on April 24, 2026. Although the patent does not confirm the launch, it does secure the design of the SUV for the Indian market.At first glance, the Leopard 8 has a bold and honest design approach. The overall stance is long and square, with a flat bonnet, straight lines and a large windshield. In terms of initial appearance, it falls into the same visual space as the Land Rover Defender 110.It has a simple grille with horizontal elements, flanked by wide, rectangular headlamp units. The bumper is thick and layered. From the side, the design continues with boxy wheel arches, thick cladding and a high ground clearance stance. The straight shoulder line and flat panels give it a very functional and solid look. A tailgate-mounted spare wheel is also available at the rear.
Another highlight is the presence of three roof-mounted LiDAR sensors. Inside, the Leopard 8 is expected to get a triple-screen layout, consisting of a large 17.3-inch central touchscreen and two 12.3-inch displays for the driver and front passenger. The cabin also features a four-spoke steering wheel and a feature-rich center console.Globally, the SUV is offered as a plug-in hybrid with a body-on-frame chassis. In one version, it combines a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with electric motors to produce up to 578 hp and 760 Nm. It can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 4.8 seconds and offers an all-electric range of 100 km. However, these figures may change if this model is introduced in India.Once launched, the Leopard 8 could take on established rivals in the segment. Unlike the monocoque setup of the Defender, the BYD SUV will stand out with its ladder-frame construction and plug-in hybrid technology. This could also mark BYD’s first PHEV offering in India, where the brand currently sells only electric vehicles.
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