BYD's Track-Oriented Hypercar Outpaces Rimac to Become the Fastest EV in the World | Carscoops
The most powerful version of the Yangwang U9 is equipped with four electric motors, each producing 744 hp, resulting in a total output of 2,960 hp.
Recently, the Yangwang U9 Track Edition achieved a top speed of 472.41 km/h (293.54 mph) at the Papenburg test track, marking it as the fastest electric vehicle in the world, surpassing the previous record set by Rimac.
This high-performance edition boasts a combined power exceeding 2,960 hp from its quad electric motors.
Chinese manufacturer BYD has confirmed that the Yangwang U9 Track Edition reached this remarkable speed on August 8, during a test at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg facilities, with professional driver Marc Basseng at the controls. The previous record was held by the Rimac Nevera R, which reached 431.45 km/h (268.2 mph) in July 2025. Additionally, the Track Edition offered a significant boost over the standard Yangwang U9, which achieved 391.94 km/h (243.54 mph) in November 2024.
The Track Edition features four electric motors, each delivering a peak power of 744 hp (555 kW / 755 PS). BYD states that the total output exceeds 2,960 hp (2,207 kW / 3,000 PS), providing an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 1,200 hp per tonne. In comparison, the Nevera R offers 1,989 hp (1,571 kW / 2,017 PS) with a ratio of 978 hp per tonne.
To manage this substantial power, the EV is equipped with advanced torque vectoring technology and the DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System from the e4 Platform, which automatically adjusts the suspension for optimal grip. It is also said to be the first mass-produced vehicle to use a 1200V ultra-high-voltage platform, combined with a thermal management system designed for extreme environments.
The Yangwang U9 Track Edition made its debut earlier this month through China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The record-setting model was observed with duct tape on the panel gaps to enhance aerodynamics and features a redesigned carbon fiber splitter, omitting the swan neck rear wing.
This record-breaking electric vehicle is fitted with a set of track-oriented semi-slick tires developed in collaboration with Giti Tire, incorporating optimized compound materials and a bespoke tread design. The tires also utilize a high-viscosity lubricant and a special knurling treatment between the tire and rim to minimize slippage.
Basseng, who was also behind the wheel during the previous record attempt with the standard Yangwang U9, remarked, "Last year, I believed I had reached my limit. I never anticipated breaking my own record so soon – but here we are, at the same track, with new technologies that have made it achievable."
Other articles
Why Canadians Pay Higher Prices for the Nissan Leaf Compared to Americans | Carscoops
In reality, the US-spec and Canadian-spec Leafs are not the same.
Porsche is now contemplating the use of artificial gear shifts in its electric vehicles after previously opposing the idea.
Porsche has indeed created an EV prototype featuring simulated gear shifts fine-tuned by PDK specialists; however, it has not been revealed to the public yet.
The EV Truck Trend Is Expanding, But Mazda Is Taking a Different Path | Carscoops
The Mazda BT-50 will not have a fully electric variant, unlike its closely related counterpart, the Isuzu D-Max.
Redesigned Peugeot 308 Loses the Fangs but Gains New Features | Carscoops
The compact model makes a comeback with a more defined design, innovative technology, and electric options, demonstrating that hatchbacks and estates still have a bright future ahead.
The Smallest Ioniq Yet Might Turn Out to Be Hyundai’s Biggest Surprise | Carscoops
The Korean brand is set to launch a new subcompact electric vehicle featuring modern design and an affordable price.
Here’s Why Porsche Uses Large Headlight Camouflage on Its Prototypes
If you've been curious about why Porsche covers real headlights with fake ones on its test vehicles, we received in-depth insight from the individual in charge.
BYD's Track-Oriented Hypercar Outpaces Rimac to Become the Fastest EV in the World | Carscoops
The most powerful variant of the Yangwang U9 is equipped with four electric motors, each producing 744 hp, which results in a combined output of 2,960 hp.