Despite the export success of the YW 531 (Type 63), NORINCO went on to developed a dedicated export version, the YW 531H (Type 85). Compared to the Type 63, the Type 85 has a lengthened hull and is heavier, and also features additional firing ports and periscopes (three on the left hull side) for the 13 fully-laden troops. Structurally, both vehicles share a nearly identical layout, the main visual difference being the addition of a fifth roadwheel on the Type 85. An NBC protection system is also added, as is night vision equipment while the Type 63's amphibious capability was retained. Aside from the basic APC version a myriad of other variants were produced for numerous roles. Despite this, the Type 85 had much less export success than its predecessor, being adopted only by Myanmar and Thailand. However, it is believed that a large quantity ended up being taken over by the PLA although sources may have it confused with the YW 534 (Type 89), a similar development destined for domestic use.

The basic YW 534 (Type 85) was followed in service by a myriad of different variants, although many of them may have been only experimental. Among these was the YW 309 IFV which incorporated the turret of the YW 501 with a 73-mm gun, but troop carrying capacity was reduced to eight. Other variants included the WZ 702 armored command post, WZ 751 armored ambulance, HJ-62C armored scout vehicle, as well as 85- and 105-mm self-propelled mortars and a 122-mm self-propelled howitzer. Recovery, maintenance and artillery command post vehicles have also been developed. The similar YW 534 (Type 89) was developed concurrently for PLA use and is described separately.