Chinese Electric Car Sets New World Speed Record
Chinese automaker BYD has announced that the Yangwang U9 Track Edition model reached a top speed of 472.41 km/h on a test track in Germany. This makes it the fastest electric car in the world.
Details of the Record Run
The run took place on August 8th at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg facilities with professional driver Mark Basseng at the wheel. The previous record belonged to the Rimac Nevera R, which achieved 431.45 km/h in July 2025. Furthermore, the track version proved to be significantly faster than the standard Yangwang U9, which reached 391.94 km/h in November 2024.
Technical Features of the Model
The track version is equipped with four electric motors, each with 744 hp. According to BYD, the total power output is over 2960 hp, providing an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 1200 hp per ton. For comparison, the Nevera R has 1989 hp and a ratio of 978 hp per ton.
To control such power, the electric car uses advanced torque vectoring capabilities and the DiSus-X intelligent body control system, which automatically adjusts the suspension for maximum traction. Additionally, it operates on the world’s first mass-produced platform with an ultra-high voltage of 1200 V, combined with a thermal management system optimized for extreme conditions.
Design Overview and Collaboration
The Yangwang U9 Track Edition debuted earlier this month through China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The record-setting model had improved aerodynamics thanks to special tape on the panels, as well as an optional redesigned carbon splitter and the removal of the swan-neck rear wing.
The record-breaking electric car is fitted with a set of semi-slick tires developed in collaboration with Giti Tire. They feature an optimized material composition, a custom tread design, a high-viscosity lubricating material, and special treatment between the tire and rim to minimize slippage.
Mark Basseng, who also participated in the previous record with the standard Yangwang U9, noted: “Last year I thought I had reached the peak. I never expected to break my own record so soon – but here we are, on the same track, with new technologies that made it possible.”
This success of the Yangwang U9 Track Edition demonstrates the rapid development of the Chinese automotive industry, particularly in the high-performance electric vehicle segment. Growing competition among manufacturers fosters innovation and sets new standards in the industry, which could lead to further technological breakthroughs in the future. Moreover, such achievements may help popularize electric cars among auto enthusiasts who were previously skeptical about their performance.