The automotive world is abuzz with anticipation as BYD’s Yangwang U9 Xtreme prepares for another record-breaking attempt. Following its impressive run of 496.22 km/h last September, the electric supercar is set to return to the Automotive Testing Papenburg (ATP) in Germany this November, aiming to surpass the 500 km/h mark.
This announcement comes on the heels of a revealing conversation between BYD’s Stella Li Vice President, and Li Yunfei Brand and PR Manager, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The discussion highlighted the untapped potential of the U9 Xtreme, which left the team eager for a second attempt.
The Quest for 500 km/h
The U9 Xtreme’s first record-breaking run left some performance on the table. Data from the test revealed that pilot Marc Basseng had approximately 1.5 seconds of full-throttle time remaining before he had to decelerate. This margin of untapped speed has fueled the team’s determination to push the boundaries further.
The ATP test track, a 12.3 km high-speed oval with two 4 km stretches of straight track, will once again serve as the stage for this high-stakes performance. The track’s unique layout, combined with the U9 Xtreme’s advanced engineering, makes it the ideal setting for this record attempt.
The Engineering Marvel Behind the U9 Xtreme
The Yangwang U9 Xtreme is a high-performance variant of the Yangwang U9 supercar. It boasts extensive aerodynamic upgrades, including a large carbon front splitter a rear diffuser a dual-channel hood and a tall swan-neck rear spoiler. These enhancements are designed to optimize airflow and maximize speed.
Powering this engineering marvel is BYD’s quad-motor e4 platform which delivers a staggering 2,220 kW (or 2,977 hp). This translates to an impressive 1,200 hp per ton. The vehicle’s torque vectoring system adjusts up to 100 times per second ensuring precise control and stability at extreme speeds.
The U9 Xtreme also features BYD’s signature Blade Battery technology, combined with dual-layer cooling. This advanced battery system can sustain track sessions with discharge rates of up to 30 C making it a reliable powerhouse for high-performance driving.
The Road Ahead for Yangwang
As BYD’s flagship halo brand, Yangwang continues to make waves in the automotive industry. Despite not focusing on large-scale production, the brand has seen consistent year-on-year growth of over 100% each month. In June 2026 alone, Yangwang delivered 455 units domestically, a testament to its growing popularity.
The upcoming record attempt in November is not just about Breaking barriers; it’s about showcasing the potential of electric supercars. As the automotive world watches, the Yangwang U9 Xtreme stands ready to redefine the limits of speed and performance.
