The YANGWANG U9 Track Edition has achieved what many thought impossible: it set a new global electric vehicle top-speed record of 472.41 km/h. The run took place at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg facility in Germany on August 8, 2025, confirming the U9 Track Edition as the fastest EV in the world.
Engineering foundations of the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition
The record-breaking model is based on the YANGWANG U9 currently available in China. It retains the e4 Platform and DiSus-X technical architecture, but adds further advancements. A 1200V ultra-high-voltage platform, the first of its kind in mass production, is combined with a cooling system designed for extreme performance. These innovations enable the Track Edition to operate at levels rarely seen in electric supercars.
Power and performance that break barriers
The U9 Track Edition is powered by four high-performance 30,000rpm motors, each delivering 555kW. Combined, the system produces more than 3,000PS. This results in a staggering power-to-weight ratio of 1,217PS per tonne, placing the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition at the very top of the performance spectrum. Accelerating to nearly 500 km/h demands precision, and this supercar demonstrates remarkable stability even under extreme loads.
Control and stability at extreme speeds
Beyond raw numbers, control is critical. The e4 Platform’s quad-motor torque vectoring system continuously adapts torque delivery to each wheel more than 100 times per second. This ensures traction and prevents slip, even at record-breaking velocities. Meanwhile, the DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System constantly adjusts the suspension, keeping the car level and maximising grip. Together, these systems allow the car to remain composed and safe when others would struggle.
Advanced aerodynamics and track-ready design
The Track Edition retains the aerodynamics of the production U9, enhanced with an optional carbon-fiber splitter to improve downforce. Every detail has been tested to withstand extreme conditions. To support such speeds, YANGWANG partnered with Giti Tire to develop a semi-slick tyre with unique materials and design. Special knurling at the rim interface and high-viscosity lubricant reduce slippage, torque loss, and wear, ensuring the tyres perform reliably under unprecedented stress.
A driver’s record-breaking moment
German racing driver Marc Basseng was behind the wheel, repeating history after setting the previous EV record in 2024. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “Last year, I thought I had peaked. I never expected to break my own record so soon , but here we are, at the same track, with new technologies that made it possible.”
Summary
The YANGWANG U9 Track Edition is more than a record-holder; it redefines what an electric supercar can be. With unmatched speed, advanced control systems, and sustainable innovation from BYD, it demonstrates that the future of high performance belongs to electric power.
Disclaimer: Specifications and performance figures for the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition are based on testing conditions and may vary in other environments.
Source: BYD UK
