The BYD YangWang U9 Xtreme has set a new world record for the fastest production car, achieving a top speed of 496.22 km/h (308.4 mph) at Germany’s ATP Papenburg test track. This unprecedented feat overtakes the previous record held by the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+, which reached 490.48 km/h (304.77 mph) in 2019. The milestone highlights the growing dominance of electric hypercars in high-speed automotive performance.
BYD YangWang U9 Xtreme Breaks Speed Record
On September 14, 2025, the BYD YangWang U9 Xtreme set a groundbreaking new speed record by hitting 496.22 km/h (308.4 mph) at Germany’s ATP Papenburg test track. This electric vehicle (EV) has now claimed the title of the world’s fastest production car, surpassing the previous record of 490.48 km/h (304.77 mph) held by the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+. The achievement marks a significant milestone for electric mobility and further blurs the lines between traditional combustion-engine hypercars and electric alternatives.
The YangWang U9 Xtreme not only claimed the title of the fastest production car but also showcased the immense potential of high-performance electric powertrains. It exceeded its own prior top speed of 472.41 km/h (293.54 mph), further pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle engineering.
How the YangWang U9 Xtreme Compares to the Bugatti Chiron
| Feature | YangWang U9 Xtreme | Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ |
|---|---|---|
| Top Speed | 496.22 km/h (308.4 mph) | 490.48 km/h (304.77 mph) |
| Power Output | 2,977 hp (2,220 kW) | 1,600 PS (1,176 kW) |
| Motors | Four electric motors | Quad-turbocharged W16 engine |
| Battery System | 1,200 V Blade Battery | 8.0 L W16 engine |
| Weight | 2,480 kg | 1,975 kg |
| Record Type | One-way run | One-way run |
| Track | ATP Papenburg, Germany | Ehra-Lessien, Germany |
The YangWang U9 Xtreme outperforms the Chiron Super Sport 300+ in several key areas, notably in power output and top speed. Equipped with a 1,200 V electrical system and Blade Battery technology, the U9 Xtreme delivers an impressive 2,977 horsepower (2,220 kW) via a quad-motor setup. In comparison, the Chiron’s W16 engine, while a technological marvel, produces a lower 1,600 PS (1,176 kW).
Moreover, the U9 Xtreme’s weight of 2,480 kg is notably heavier than the Chiron’s 1,975 kg, though the added weight is attributed to the U9’s extensive battery and electrical systems. Despite this, the U9’s superior acceleration and power output helped it surpass the Chiron’s top speed.
Technological Innovations Driving Speed
The YangWang U9 Xtreme’s remarkable performance is made possible by a combination of cutting-edge technologies. The vehicle features a quad-motor setup that delivers instant torque and powerful acceleration. This electric powertrain setup is a significant improvement over traditional internal combustion engines, enabling the U9 to achieve extraordinary speeds while maintaining a relatively lower environmental footprint.
The Blade Battery, developed by BYD, is another breakthrough technology at the heart of the U9 Xtreme. The battery not only powers the vehicle’s motors but also ensures better thermal management, contributing to improved overall performance during high-speed runs.
Additionally, the U9 Xtreme is equipped with semi-slick tires and an active suspension system, both of which enhance stability and control at extreme speeds. This high-tech setup allows the car to remain stable even during high-speed maneuvers, providing a level of performance that was once reserved for gas-powered hypercars.
The Future of Electric Hypercars
The performance of the BYD YangWang U9 Xtreme signals a major shift in the automotive industry, as electric vehicles continue to challenge the dominance of traditional combustion-engine hypercars. With electric vehicles now capable of reaching speeds previously reserved for gas-powered cars, the future of high-performance automotive engineering seems poised for a dramatic transformation.
The U9 Xtreme’s achievement also underscores China’s growing influence in the global automotive market. BYD, which is already a leader in electric vehicles, has proven that it can compete at the highest levels of automotive performance. As companies like Tesla, Lucid Motors, and now BYD lead the charge, the electric hypercar industry is set for significant growth in the coming years.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the BYD YangWang U9 Xtreme has not only secured its place in history as the fastest production car but also demonstrated the capabilities of electric vehicles at the highest echelons of speed and performance. With the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ now dethroned, the race for supremacy in the hypercar industry is increasingly tilted towards electric technology. As advancements in battery technology, aerodynamics, and powertrains continue to accelerate, the next few years promise to be exciting for automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
