BYD unveils Yangwang U9 Xtreme, hits 496.22 km/h, world’s fastest production car
BYD’s Yangwang brand unveiled the U9 Xtreme, a track-focused electric hypercar, previously known as the Yangwang U9 Track Edition. Debuting in a livestream, it was verified at Germany’s Automotive Testing Papenburg in September 2025 with a top speed of 496.22 km/h (308.4 mph), making it the fastest recorded production car ever. Yangwang also reported a Nürburgring Nordschleife lap of 6:59.157, surpassing the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra’s 7:04.957 production EV record. Production will be limited to 30 units for global markets.
The U9 Xtreme surpassed the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ record of 490.5 km/h, while the Aspark Owl (438.7 km/h) remains far behind. Koenigsegg’s Jesko Absolut has only simulation figures so far, though it set a 0–400–0 km/h record in August 2025.
The U9 Xtreme is based on the existing U9 and fitted with extended aerodynamic equipment, including a larger carbon fibre front splitter, dual-channel hood design, and a prominent swan-neck rear wing. Its dimensions are 4,991 mm long, 2,029 mm wide, and 1,351 mm high, with a 2,900 mm wheelbase. The car runs on 20-inch dual five-spoke wheels paired with GitiSport e·Gtr2 Pro semi-slick tyres, developed jointly with Giti for speeds up to 500 km/h. Braking is handled by titanium callipers and upgraded carbon-ceramic discs.
At the rear, the car incorporates a dual-layer diffuser for ground effect, layered rear glass, and a split taillight structure connected by the Yangwang logo. The interior features a fully digital instrument cluster, a T-shaped centre console with a vertical touchscreen, and extensive use of carbon fibre and Alcantara materials. Bucket-style seating and a multifunction steering wheel further emphasise performance focus.
Power comes from a four-motor setup using BYD’s Yi Sifang system, operating on a 1,200V silicon carbide-based platform. Each motor delivers 555 kW, combining for 2,220 kW (close to 3000 hp). The system provides a power-to-weight ratio of 1,217 ps per ton. Torque vectoring adjustments occur over 100 times per second, distributing power independently to each wheel.
The chassis integrates BYD’s DiSus-X active body control system, which employs dual-valve suspension to adjust vertical wheel motion in real time, enhancing traction during acceleration, braking, and cornering. The U9 Xtreme also debuts a track-grade lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery with dual-layer cooling, capable of 30C discharge rates for improved thermal management.
U9 Xtreme’s blade battery supports 30C high-rate discharge with dual-layer cooling.
