Powerful Reasons The Yangwang U9 Xtreme Redefines Hypercar Performance

The Yangwang U9 Xtreme has rewritten the rulebook. On 14 September 2025, at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg track in Germany, it hit an official top speed of 308.4 mph (496.22 km/h). That figure makes it the world’s fastest production car, ahead of both electric and petrol rivals.

This landmark moment marks the first time an EV has claimed the crown outright. For a brand launched only in 2023, that’s an astonishing rise to the very top of performance car history.

From U9 Track Edition to U9 Xtreme

The record-breaker is an evolution of Yangwang’s U9, already on sale in China. Initially known as the U9 Track/Special Edition, it is now confirmed for production as the Yangwang U9 Xtreme, or U9X.

Engineers upgraded almost every part of the hypercar to reach this level:

• Powertrain: 1200V ultra-high-voltage system (up from 800V)
• Battery: Lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery with a 30C discharge rate
• Motors: Four units spinning up to 30,000rpm, delivering over 3000PS combined
• Tyres: Semi-slicks developed for circuit-level grip
• Suspension: DiSus-X active system tuned for extreme stress at high speeds

The result is a hypercar that does not simply add speed to sustainability, but blends both into one extraordinary package, including the features of the Yangwang U9 Xtreme.

The People Behind the Record

Driving duties fell to German racing veteran Marc Basseng, whose CV includes GT and endurance racing. He praised the car’s stability and response:

“This record was only possible because the U9 Xtreme has incredible performance. With electric motors there are no load changes, no distractions. That allows me to focus fully on the track.”

BYD’s Executive Vice President Stella Li echoed that pride:

“This is a proud moment for the entire R&D division. YANGWANG refuses to accept limits, and the U9X proves what’s possible. The world’s fastest production car is now electric.”

More Than a Speed Machine

Yangwang is producing only 30 units worldwide, turning the U9X into an ultra-exclusive model. Even its name has meaning:

• ‘Extreme’ symbolises the ultimate limits of performance
• ‘X’ hints at the unknown, the spirit of discovery and innovation

It’s a philosophy that mirrors Yangwang’s wider aim – to combine luxury, cutting-edge technology, and sustainability in their U9 Xtreme model.

Redefining the Hypercar

With this record, Yangwang has done more than prove speed. It has placed electric power firmly at the centre of the hypercar conversation. Supported by BYD’s commitment to innovation and green technology, the U9 Xtreme offers a driving experience that is both thrilling and responsible.

Final Thoughts

An EV now holds the crown as the world’s fastest production car. The Yangwang U9 Xtreme has shown what’s possible when performance and sustainability work together.

But here’s the question: will speed fans embrace an all-electric hypercar as the ultimate symbol of automotive performance? Or will the roar of petrol power always hold the edge in their hearts?

Let us know what you think in the comments below.

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