BYD’s luxury electric hypercar, Yangwang U9 Xtreme shatters records at Germany’s ATP Papenburg track, claiming titles for both overall and EV top speeds
The Yangwang U9 Xtreme made history. It clocked 308.4 miles per hour at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg track in Germany. German racer Marc Basseng drove it. He pushed the limits with skill. This electric beast from BYD now holds two crowns. First, it is the fastest production car ever. Second, it leads all electric vehicles too. Moreover, it beat the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+’s 304.5mph mark from 2019.
BYD launched Yangwang as its premium sub-brand in 2022. The company focuses on new-energy vehicles. In fact, BYD stopped making fossil-fuel cars first among majors. Now, the Yangwang U9 Xtreme showcases this vision. It packs four electric motors. They deliver over 2,978 horsepower. Additionally, a 1,200-volt system boosts power flow. This setup uses BYD’s Blade Battery tech. It raises energy density by 170%. Thus, the car handles 30C discharge rates easily.
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Engineering Marvels Behind the Record-Breaking Run
Engineers tweaked the Yangwang U9 Xtreme for this run. They fitted semi-slick track tyres. These grip at insane speeds. Next, they adjusted the DiSus-X suspension. It keeps the car stable on the oval. Furthermore, narrower 20-inch wheels help aerodynamics.
Basseng noted the smooth power delivery. Unlike petrol engines, electrics avoid gear shifts. So, drivers focus purely on the road. However, the track’s short 2.5-mile straights limited the full potential. Basseng braked early for the banked turn. Yet, the run proved the car’s might.
This success highlights Chinese auto prowess. BYD outsells rivals in new-energy cars in China for a decade. Now, it eyes global markets. The Yangwang U9 Xtreme costs more than the standard U9’s $270,000. But only 30 units will roll out. Each one targets enthusiasts worldwide. Meanwhile, Tesla’s Roadster delays loom. Elon Musk must respond to this challenge.
Charting the Path for Electric Hypercar Evolution
What does this mean for the future? The Yangwang U9 Xtreme accelerates EV adoption. It proves electrics match or beat petrol in speed. Thus, buyers see sustainability without compromise. Moreover, high-voltage tech could trickle down. Everyday EVs might charge faster and go farther. In addition, BYD plans more records. Perhaps a 500km/h push next. This sparks competition. Rivals like Rimac or Koenigsegg will innovate harder.
Safety improves too. The car’s stability at 308.4mph sets benchmarks. Regulators may update rules for such speeds. Yet, road limits stay low. So, tracks become the playground. For consumers, benefits abound. Cleaner air from widespread EVs. Lower costs over time. And thrilling drives that inspire.
In summary, the Yangwang U9 Xtreme redefines speed. It blends power, green tech, and bold design. As BYD expands, expect more disruptions. The auto world just got faster and smarter.
