In a significant achievement for electric vehicle engineering, the Yangwang U9 Xtreme hypercar has reached a verified top speed of 496,22 km/h. The run took place recently at the ATP test track in Papenburg, Germany.
This result establishes a new global record for a production vehicle. It surpasses previous benchmarks set by both electric and petrol-powered models. The car is the new flagship model from Yangwang, the luxury division of the electric vehicle manufacturer BYD.
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The U9 Xtreme, also referred to as the U9X, is based on the technical architecture of the standard U9 model but incorporates several key advancements. These include an upgraded 1200V ultra-high-voltage electrical system, a high-discharge lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery, and four individual motors that collectively produce more than 3 000 PS. The vehicle was also equipped with track-focused semi-slick tyres and a specially tuned suspension system to manage the demands of high-speed driving.
BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li acknowledged the effort of the research and development team and the driver, Marc Basseng. She noted the achievement reflects the brand's focus on innovation and the possibilities of electric mobility.
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Basseng, a German racing driver with extensive experience in sports car competition, was behind the wheel for the record attempt. He commented on the car's performance, noting the characteristics of the electric powertrain, such as its smooth power delivery and quiet operation, allowed for a focused driving experience at high speed.
Production of the Yangwang U9 Xtreme will be limited, with no more than 30 units scheduled to be built for customers. The model's name is intended to embody its position at the limit of performance and exploration. This milestone is seen as a step forward in defining the potential of high-performance, sustainable vehicles.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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