Unlike most vehicles in the history of global tank manufacturing, the ZTZ96B was not designed to enhance combat effectiveness; rather, it was designed to improve performance in “Tank Biathlon” competitions. The ZTZ96A participated in these competitions but showed unsatisfactory results in terms of mobility, reliability, and target engagement. Thus, it was decided to modernize the vehicle in these areas. Unveiled in 2016, the upgraded vehicle received a more powerful engine and a refined transmission to achieve higher speeds, as well as an upgraded main gun and fire control system to increase the probability of hitting the target. Due to its "sport" purpose, the ZTZ96B was produced in very limited numbers.

The ZTZ96B was introduced in Update 2.55 "Ninth Wave". The vehicle boasts good mobility and firepower, matching most of its opponents in these areas. However, its relatively slow reload time and numerous weak spots, even in the frontal armor, require careful maneuvering to be hidden. The ZTZ96B is unlikely to survive return fire due to its dense internal layout.