Denza OTA update boosts towing, off-road capability for NZ B5 and B8 owners

Denza has confirmed its first major over-the-air (OTA) software update for New Zealand customers, delivering new towing, off-road, safety, and convenience features to its Denza B5 and Denza B8 SUVs.

Unlike some OTA updates that focus primarily on infotainment systems, Denza says their first update, Version 1.1.0, introduces meaningful and functional upgrades designed to improve real-world capability, particularly for owners who tow or venture off-road.

The update is being rolled out remotely to vehicles across New Zealand, allowing owners to receive the latest enhancements without visiting a dealership.

Recognising the importance of towing capability for customers, Denza has expanded towing functionality across both models.

For the B5, the update adds cruise control while towing to help reduce fatigue on long-distance journeys, alongside a dedicated towing mode switch that allows drivers to quickly activate or deactivate towing settings. Owners can also now select trailer weight categories, enabling the vehicle to adjust performance parameters to improve stability and safety.

The larger B8 receives cruise control functionality in towing mode as well, while also gaining dynamic range estimation designed to provide more accurate driving range predictions when towing.

Denza has also refined the Dual Mode Off-Road (DMO) platform underpinning both SUVs following testing conducted at Queensland’s notoriously challenging Beer O’Clock Hill off-road course.

According to the company, data gathered during the testing program allowed engineers to revise traction control management algorithms, improving the coordination of wheel speed and motor torque. The result is said to be improved off-road performance, greater stability, and enhanced flexibility in sandy terrain.

Safety and convenience updates form another key part of the OTA package. Both the B5 and B8 now feature turn signal displays within the head-up display, improving driver awareness without requiring drivers to glance away from the road.

A new driver password lock has also been introduced across both models to enhance vehicle security.

The B8 receives an additional safety enhancement for its second- and third-row seats, with upgraded anti-jam functionality designed to stop the folding process if resistance or an obstruction is detected.

Denza Australia chief operating officer Mark Harland said the update demonstrates the brand’s commitment to listening to customer feedback and continuously improving its vehicles after purchase.

“We are listening to customer feedback, not only through our local engineering team but also through real-world experiences shared by owners,” said Mr Harland.

“Whether it’s improved towing capability, greater off-road confidence or enhanced convenience and safety features, these updates are designed to deliver meaningful improvements that customers will notice in everyday driving.”

The update arrives as Denza continues to expand its presence in New Zealand. The brand currently offers two models locally, the B5 and B8, with a people mover expected to join the lineup soon.

Denza has also confirmed plans to introduce the high-performance Z9GT wagon, which is expected to become the most powerful Chinese-made vehicle offered in New Zealand once it arrives.

While local timing for the Z9GT remains unconfirmed, it is set to debut BYD’s next-generation Blade Battery 2.0 technology and ultra-fast charging capability.