The race for the fastest electric car has reached a new milestone. Chinese automaker BYD (Build Your Dreams) has etched its name in history with the Yangwang U9 Track Edition, which clocked a jaw-dropping 472.41 km/h, smashing the previous record of 431.45 km/h set by the Rimac Nevera R in July 2025.
Where Was the Record Set?The record-breaking run took place at the Automotive Testing Papenburg (ATP) track in Germany—the same venue where Rimac had set its record earlier. On this very track, BYD has now claimed the crown of the world’s fastest electric car.
Standard vs Track Edition-
Standard Yangwang U9 top speed (Nov 2024): 391.94 km/h
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Yangwang U9 Track Edition: 472.41 km/h
That’s nearly an 80 km/h leap, thanks to significant aerodynamic and technical upgrades.
Power and Performance-
Driven by German racing driver Marc Basseng.
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Equipped with four electric motors, each producing 555 kW (755 PS).
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Combined output: 2,207 kW (3,000 PS).
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Power-to-weight ratio: 1,200 PS per tonne (vs Rimac Nevera R’s 978 PS per tonne).
Clearly, the U9 Track Edition not only surpasses Rimac in speed, but also in raw power.
Tech That Makes It Possible-
Built on BYD’s e4 platform.
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Features DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System, which dynamically adjusts suspension, damping, and ride height for stability at extreme speeds.
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Advanced torque vectoring ensures precise power distribution across all four wheels.
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First car in the world with a 1200V ultra-high voltage platform.
Surprisingly, the hypercar does not have a rear wing. Instead, it uses track semi-slick tyres co-developed with Singapore’s Giti Tire. These tyres are crafted from a special compound and tread design, ensuring maximum grip even without conventional downforce aids.
