Yangwang U9 Track Edition Breaks World EV Speed Record at 472.41 kmph

Yangwang, BYD's high-end luxury division, has shattered the global electric vehicle speed record, achieving an unprecedented 472.41 kmph at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg facility in Germany. The remarkable feat was accomplished on August 8, 2025, by German professional driver Marc Basseng, who previously held the EV speed record in 2024. 

Record-Breaking Performance and Technology

The Yangwang U9 Track Edition achieves this milestone through its revolutionary e⁴ Platform, featuring the world's first quad-motor system with 30,000 rpm high-performance motors. Each motor delivers 744 bhp peak power, creating a combined system output exceeding 3,000 bhp and establishing an extraordinary power-to-weight ratio of 1,200 bhp per tonne. 

The vehicle's DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System works in perfect harmony with the e⁴ Platform, performing rapid suspension adjustments at ultra-high frequency - exceeding 100 times per second - to maintain absolute control over body posture even at extreme speeds. This system actively optimises tire contact patches with the road surface, maximising grip and ensuring superior stability during high-speed runs. 

How It Compares to Other Speed Champions

The Yangwang U9 Track Edition now leads a competitive field of electric speed demons. Previously, the Aspark Owl SP600 held unofficial records with a top speed of 438.7 kmph, while the Rimac Nevera officially dominated with 415 kmph and an impressive collection of 23 performance records set in a single day. 

The Nevera, priced at €2 million (approximately ₹17.84 crore in India), generates 1,914 bhp from its quad-motor setup. Meanwhile, the Aspark Owl SP600, recognised by Guinness World Records as the fastest battery-powered electric prototype hypercar, produces 2,012 bhp. The Yangwang U9's superior performance stems from its advanced 1200V ultra-high-voltage platform combined with optimised thermal management systems. 

Auto Expo Showcase and India Presence

BYD showcased its luxury YANGWANG brand at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, though it displayed the U8 SUV rather than the U9 supercar. The U8, featuring 1,200 bhp output and tank-turn capabilities, won Acko Drive's Best Technology Showcase award at the event. This premium SUV demonstrated YANGWANG's technological prowess with its ability to float on water for 30 minutes and perform 360-degree rotations. 

Will the U9 Come to India?

While BYD has not officially confirmed the Yangwang U9's launch in India, the company's growing presence suggests potential future availability. BYD currently offers models ranging from ₹24.99 lakh to ₹54.90 lakh in India, establishing a solid foundation for premium offerings. However, the U9 would represent a significant leap into the ultra-luxury segment. 

Expected Pricing in India

If launched in India, the Yangwang U9 would command astronomical pricing. The standard U9 is priced at 1.68 million yuan (approximately ₹2 crore) in China. However, the Track Edition's advanced technology and record-breaking performance would likely push Indian pricing significantly higher. 

Considering India's luxury car market, where the most expensive vehicles reach ₹10.50 crore (Ferrari Purosangue), the U9 Track Edition could potentially be priced between ₹8-12 crore. This estimate factors in India's high import duties, luxury taxes, and the vehicle's exclusive positioning above current premium electric offerings like the Rimac Nevera, which costs approximately ₹17.84 crore internationally. 

The pricing would place it in direct competition with established luxury supercars from Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren, while offering the distinction of being the world's fastest production electric vehicle. For context, other ultra-luxury EVs like the MG Cyberster are priced at ₹75 lakh, while the upcoming Tesla Model Y ranges from ₹59.89-67.89 lakh. 

The Yangwang U9 Track Edition represents more than just a speed record - it demonstrates China's emerging dominance in electric vehicle technology and BYD's commitment to redefining sustainable high-performance automotive engineering.