A New Speed King Emerges from China
As a car buff who’s always on the lookout for the next big thing, I was buzzing with excitement when I heard about the YangWang U9 Track Edition’s stunning achievement just 12 hours ago at 10:13 AM IST on August 27, 2025. Built by BYD, this Chinese electric hypercar clocked an incredible 293.54 mph at a German test track, outpacing the Koenigsegg Agera RS. This 2025 EV speed record, set on August 8, marks a bold entry for YangWang, BYD’s luxury performance arm, into the hypercar elite. Let’s unpack this milestone, its cutting-edge tech, and what it means for the future.
A Striking Design for Record-Breaking Speeds
The U9 Track Edition stands out with its aggressive makeover. Ditching the standard model’s large rear wing, it sports a sleek carbon-fiber front splitter to slash drag, helping it hit those mind-boggling speeds. The bodywork is optimized for aerodynamics, while the DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System keeps it glued to the road with rapid suspension tweaks, even allowing dramatic jumps—a party trick that wows onlookers. Paired with a track-focused semi-slick tire from Giti Tire, featuring a unique tread and knurling treatment to minimize slippage, this hypercar is built to dominate.
Driven by German racer Marc Basseng, a veteran of endurance racing, the U9 conquered the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg track—the same venue where the Corvette ZR1 hit 233 mph. This design evolution signals BYD’s intent to rival European giants like Bugatti and Koenigsegg.
Power That Pushes Limits
Under the hood—or rather, the battery pack—the U9 Track Edition packs a quad-motor electric powertrain, each unit pumping out 744 horsepower for a total of over 2,959 hp. That’s a massive leap from the standard U9’s 1,287 hp, thanks to motors spinning up to 30,000 rpm. This torque-vectoring setup adjusts power to each wheel 100 times per second, ensuring razor-sharp handling at extreme velocities. While BYD hasn’t spilled all the secrets on motor durability—think Tesla’s Model S Plaid carbon-fiber rotors—the result speaks for itself.
This power surge helped the U9 eclipse the Rimac Nevera R’s 268 mph and the Aspark Owl’s 272 mph, set in 2024, claiming the fastest EV crown. The run was one-directional, unlike the averaged 277.9 mph of the Agera RS, but the raw speed is a statement.
Tech That Defies Gravity
The DiSus-X system is the star here, dynamically adjusting suspension to maximize tire grip during acceleration and cornering, minimizing pitch and roll. It’s the tech behind those viral jumps, showcasing BYD’s engineering flair. The Giti Tire collaboration adds stability with a compound tailored for high-speed runs, while the lack of detailed motor survival insights leaves us intrigued—perhaps a nod to proprietary innovation.
Compared to the Corvette ZR1’s 233 mph at the same track, the U9’s performance is a leap forward, hinting at China’s growing EV prowess.
Value and Future Impact
Pricing isn’t public yet, but with the standard U9 starting around $233,000, the Track Edition will likely command a premium. Its 293.54 mph feat, achieved on August 8, 2025, positions YangWang as a contender, though the one-way run might spark debate among purists. Still, it’s a bold move by BYD, signaling a challenge to Western hypercar dominance.
My Take: A Game-Changer in the Making
The YangWang U9 Track Edition’s 293.54 mph run as of August 27, 2025, is a wake-up call for the industry. Its blend of power, design, and tech makes it a thrilling prospect, though questions linger about motor longevity and record legitimacy. I’m eager to see if BYD can sustain this momentum—watch this space for more! (Image Source- byd.com)
