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China’s BYD has taken a bold step in redefining the electric hypercar landscape with the introduction of the Yangwang U9 Xtreme. This vehicle has not only captured the imagination of car enthusiasts but also set new benchmarks in automotive performance. The U9 Xtreme, which made its debut in a live online event, has quickly gained attention for its remarkable speed and engineering. Certified by Germany’s Automotive Testing Papenburg, the car achieved a jaw-dropping top speed of 308.4 mph, making it the fastest production car to date. With production limited to just 30 units globally, this hypercar is poised to become a coveted collector’s item.
U9 Xtreme Outpaces Bugatti and Leaves Aspark Owl in the Dust
The Yangwang U9 Xtreme by BYD has set new standards in speed, surpassing the previous record held by the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+. Driven by Andy Wallace in 2019, the Bugatti reached a speed of 304.77 mph. In contrast, the U9 Xtreme has now achieved a certified speed of 308.4 mph. Meanwhile, Japan’s Aspark Owl, once considered a competitor, has been outperformed with its best speed at 272.7 mph.
Even the highly anticipated Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut, known for its computer-simulated speed capabilities, has yet to match the U9 Xtreme’s achievements. The Jesko Absolut did set a new record for acceleration and braking, going from 0 to 249 to 0 mph in August 2025, but it remains untested in real-world top speed trials.
Marc Basseng, a German GT racing driver, played a crucial role in achieving this feat with the Yangwang U9 Xtreme. According to Basseng, the car’s exceptional engineering and electric drivetrain are key factors in its success. He highlighted the hypercar’s design, which allows for unmatched stability and control, enabling drivers to maintain focus on the track. This achievement is not just about speed; it’s a testament to the evolution of automotive technology.
Four-Motor BYD U9 Xtreme Delivers 2,220 kW and Lightning-Fast Torque Control
The Yangwang U9 Xtreme is a testament to BYD's engineering prowess. The hypercar's aggressive aero package and 20-inch dual five-spoke wheels, fitted with GitiSport e·Gtr2 Pro semi-slick tires, ensure stability even at speeds approaching 310 mph. These tires, co-developed with Giti, are specifically designed for high-speed stability.
The U9 Xtreme is powered by a four-motor setup utilizing BYD’s Yi Sifang system, which runs on a 1,200-volt silicon-carbide platform. Each motor generates 555 kW, culminating in a combined output of 2,220 kW, or nearly 3,000 horsepower. This results in an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 1,217 ps per ton. The vehicle's stopping power is equally impressive, with titanium calipers and upgraded carbon-ceramic rotors.
One of the standout features of this hypercar is its advanced torque vectoring system, capable of making over 100 adjustments per second. This system sends power to each wheel independently, ensuring maximum grip and precision. The U9 Xtreme is not merely a vehicle; it represents a leap forward in automotive innovation, setting a new standard for what electric hypercars can achieve.
Limited Production and Global Impact
With only 30 units of the Yangwang U9 Xtreme slated for production, BYD has created a hypercar that is not only a marvel of engineering but also a rare collector's item. The decision to limit production underscores the exclusivity and high value of this vehicle in the global market.
This limited run also highlights BYD’s strategic approach to positioning the U9 Xtreme as a pinnacle of luxury and performance. Each unit represents a fusion of cutting-edge technology and meticulous craftsmanship, appealing to discerning buyers worldwide.
The global impact of the U9 Xtreme extends beyond its speed records. It serves as a symbol of the shifting automotive industry, where electric vehicles are increasingly dominating conversations once reserved for traditional supercars. The U9 Xtreme challenges conventions, proving that electric powertrains can offer unmatched performance and driving experiences.
Future of Electric Hypercars
The introduction of the Yangwang U9 Xtreme marks a significant milestone in the evolution of electric hypercars. This vehicle not only sets new performance benchmarks but also paves the way for future innovations in the industry. BYD’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology is evident in the U9 Xtreme’s design and engineering achievements.
The hypercar's success raises important questions about the future of automotive performance. As manufacturers continue to explore the potential of electric powertrains, the U9 Xtreme serves as a reminder that the limits of speed and engineering are constantly being redefined.
This hypercar prompts industry leaders and enthusiasts alike to consider how electric vehicles will continue to evolve. Will the next generation of hypercars embrace electric technology entirely, or will they find a balance with traditional powertrains? The Yangwang U9 Xtreme suggests that the future of speed is electric, challenging automakers to keep pace with this new paradigm.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the introduction of the Yangwang U9 Xtreme raises compelling questions about the future of hypercar technology. BYD has demonstrated that electric powertrains can achieve feats once thought impossible, setting new benchmarks in speed and performance. How will other automakers respond to this challenge, and what innovations will emerge from this new era of electric hypercars? The answers may shape the future of automotive engineering and redefine our expectations of speed and performance.
Did you like it? 4.4/5 (29)
Wow, 308 mph? Is the U9 Xtreme even street legal? 🤔
Wow, 308 mph! That’s insane. How do they manage to keep the car stable at such speeds? 🤔
How does it compare in terms of price to the Bugatti Chiron?
Are there any plans to release this car to the general public, or is it strictly limited to collectors?
👏 Kudos to BYD for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with electric vehicles.
Electric cars are really taking over! Can’t wait to see what comes next. 🔋🚗
Only 30 units? I’m guessing those are already sold out. 😅