BIJIENG (Kashmir English): Chinese car manufacturer BYD’s luxury sub-brand YANGWANG has surprised the automotive industry after its U9 Xtreme (U9X) hypercar established a new record as the world’s fastest car with a record of 496.22 km/h on September 14, 2025, at Germany’s ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg facility.
The achievement bested both the petrol-powered class record holder (490.484 km/h) and the existing EV record.
This milestone reflects BYD’s expanding leadership in electric mobility. From its roots as an innovator in batteries, BYD has quickly grown to become a world EV leader, and the U9X is a breakthrough that combines speed, technology, and sustainability.
The U9X takes the U9 platform but adds revolutionary upgrades such as a 1200V high-voltage system, Blade Battery with 30C discharge, and four ultra-high-speed motors generating more than 3000PS.
Coupled with track-level tires and the DiSus-X suspension system, the vehicle was able to achieve unprecedented performance while still having zero emissions.
German racing specialist Marc Basseng, who was behind the U9X wheel during the record drive, attributed the hypercar’s silky electric power delivery to the trouble-free drive. BYD Executive VP Stella Li commended the R&D team, emphasizing YANGWANG’s dedication to redefining auto innovation.
The U9X will be produced in a limited series of 30 units, emphasizing its exclusivity and cementing its position as a collector’s item.
This feat is not only a new milestone for EVs but also raises the question: Is this the start of electric hypercars completely overtaking traditional petrol supercars in terms of speed and innovation?
