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BYD Yangwang U9 XTreme Sets New Production Car Speed Record at 503kmh
BYD Yangwang U9 XTreme Sets New Production Car Speed Record at 503kmh
BYD’s luxury sub-brand Yangwang has officially set a new world record for the fastest production vehicle, with the U9 XTreme reaching 503.16kmh during high-speed runs in Abu Dhabi. The achievement marks the first time a production car has exceeded the 500kmh threshold, cementing its status as the fastest electric vehicle globally.
BYD’s high-performance luxury brand, Yangwang, has established a new benchmark for production vehicles by exceeding the 500kmh barrier for the first time. During a series of high-speed runs on Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed International Road in Abu Dhabi, the UAE, the Yangwang U9 XTreme reached a verified top speed of 503.16kmh (312.65mph). The record-breaking run was executed by Marc Basseng, a former winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The new figure surpasses the previous record set by the same model last year, which stood at 308.33mph (approximately 496kmh). By crossing the 500kmh threshold, the U9 XTreme has secured a Guinness World Record for the fastest production car. The achievement also cements its status as the fastest electric production vehicle globally. This title remains secure even if Koenigsegg successfully challenges the record with its Jesko Absolute model, as Yangwang retains the specific distinction of being the fastest electric variant.
The successful attempt followed a rigorous preparation process involving road closure and surface maintenance. Approximately six miles of the highway were shut down to facilitate the runs. Because the desert location was previously used by regular traffic, the asphalt had to be swept clean to remove potential debris or fluid residues that could compromise safety at speeds exceeding 300mph.
Initial attempts on October 30 did not breach the 500kmh mark, with the highest recorded speed reaching 490kmh (304mph). The breakthrough occurred on November 1 after technical adjustments were made to the vehicle. Engineers modified the software for the adaptive dampers to increase rebound damping, allowing the car to better manage road undulations at extreme velocities. Additionally, the angle of the rear wing was adjusted to generate increased downforce.
The U9 XTreme’s performance is driven by four electric motors that produce a combined output nearing 3,000rpm. The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 62mph in just 2.36 seconds. Production of the record-breaking model is strictly limited to 30 units.
The record-setting efforts coincided with reports of a separate incident involving the U9 XTreme during high-speed testing in China. Video footage emerged showing the vehicle losing control and sustaining significant damage. According to local media reports, the driver involved in that crash was unharmed.
While it remains unclear if the Yangwang U9 will be available for sale in the UK, the brand has confirmed its entry into the British market in some capacity. Yangwang also produces the U8 SUV, a model noted for its ability to turn on the spot, though it does not approach the speed capabilities of the U9 XTreme.
N.Wilson--SFF
