Yangwang U9 Track Edition: 3,000-HP Chinese EV Achieves Unprecedented Speed Record
Yangwang has unveiled the U9 Track Edition, asserting its position as the fastest electric vehicle globally. This high-performance model from BYD's premium sub-brand shattered previous EV speed records with its astounding 3,000 horsepower, signaling a formidable challenge to traditional gas-powered supercars.
On August 8th in Germany, the U9 Track Edition, equipped with four powerful motors, reached an impressive speed of 293.54 miles per hour. This achievement surpassed the 2024 speed record previously held by the Aspark Owl, which had clocked in at 272.6 mph.
The Track Edition is built on the same foundation as the commercially available U9 but incorporates several enhancements. BYD boasts of utilizing the world’s first mass-produced 1,200-volt ultra-high-voltage platform in this model, complemented by an upgraded thermal management system to ensure optimal performance under extreme conditions.
The vehicle's exceptional capabilities stem from its quad-motor arrangement, with each motor delivering up to 30,000 rpm and generating 744.26 horsepower. Collectively, the motors produce a total output exceeding 2,958 hp, positioning the U9 Track Edition among the most powerful cars on the planet.
Advanced Handling and Control Systems
The U9 Track Edition is equipped with the DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System, a technology that allows the vehicle to perform dynamic maneuvers such as hopping or operating on three wheels. For track-focused scenarios, Yangwang has refined the system’s body posture control, enabling real-time suspension adjustments at each wheel to enhance handling precision.
Additionally, the EV features a sophisticated torque-vectoring system capable of preventing wheel slip and maintaining traction at high velocities. This system can adjust torque distribution up to 100 times per second, ensuring stability and control during rapid acceleration and cornering.
Design Upgrades and Tire Collaboration
Visually, the Track Edition forgoes the standard rear wing of the U9 in favor of a carbon-fiber front splitter, which is now in mass production. This not only improves aerodynamic efficiency but also gives the car a more aggressive stance.
In collaboration with Giti Tire, Yangwang has developed a specialized semi-slick tire tailored for track performance. These high-performance tires feature a unique tread pattern and an optimized rubber compound to provide superior grip and durability during high-speed runs.
Competitive Landscape and Future Prospects
The new speed record set by the U9 Track Edition eclipses the previous mark established last year by Japan’s Aspark Owl, which reached 272.6 mph, and the Rimac Nevera at 268.2 mph.
With Yangwang's latest achievement, the possibility of an electric vehicle breaking the 300 mph barrier seems increasingly attainable. Following a prior attempt that achieved 243 mph, the advancements in technology and performance engineering suggest that surpassing the 300 mph milestone may not be far off.
As electric vehicle technology continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of speed and performance remains a key area of focus for manufacturers aiming to dominate the high-performance automotive market.
