What Is It?

It is an Engineering Masterpiece.
On 14 September 2025, at Germany’s ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg, the YANGWANG U9 Xtreme (U9X) hypercar shattered the production-car top-speed record with a breathtaking run of 496.22 km/h (308.4 m/h).

The U9 Xtreme is not merely a fast car; it is a rolling showcase of extreme engineering. Obliterating the long-standing top speed record previously held by the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+, it proved electric powertrains can dominate ultimate performance metrics. This feat is even more impressive considering the car’s record was set by professional driver Marc Basseng, who achieved the speed in just three thrilling laps.

The Marvel of Its Engineering

What makes the U9 Xtreme a true marvel is not just its speed, but how it achieves it. Unlike the Bugatti Chiron, which relies on a massively complex quad-turbocharged W16 combustion engine, the U9 Xtreme uses a sophisticated quad-motor electric powertrain. The Bugatti’s engine is a masterpiece of mechanical engineering, but the U9 Xtreme represents a digital revolution. Its four independent motors allow for torque vectoring—precisely adjusting power to each wheel over 100 times per second—a level of instantaneous control impossible for a mechanical differential. Furthermore, its 1200-volt electrical architecture is a first for a production car, enabling immense power transfer with greater efficiency and less heat than the standard 800V systems used by other EVs. This high-voltage system, combined with its unique Blade Battery composition, allows it to sustain colossal power outputs where other electric systems might fail.

Performance Specifications

The heart of this beast is a quad-motor powertrain on a revolutionary 1200-volt ultra-high-voltage platform. The four motors combine to produce a colossal 2,978 horsepower, more than double the output of the standard U9. This immense power is managed by an advanced torque vectoring system that adjusts power to each wheel over 100 times per second for stability. The powertrain is supported by a specially developed Blade Battery with a lithium iron phosphate chemistry that allows for extremely high discharge rates and maintains power even at a low state of charge. To handle the incredible stresses, the car features a sophisticated active suspension system, smaller 20-inch wheels fitted with specialist Giti semi-slick tires, and aerodynamic tweaks like the addition of a carbon fibre splitter and the removal of the large rear wing to reduce drag.

Purpose Built Cockpit

While details of the interior are not extensively covered in press releases and videos, the car’s purpose is clear: speed. The cabin is undoubtedly driver-focused, built around the essentials for high-performance driving. It is designed to be as light as possible, with the total kerb weight kept to 2,480kg, although heavy by ordinary Combustion Engine car standards, a mere 5kg more than the standard model, which is already a beast of a car, suggesting a spartan and race-oriented environment. The presence of a professional driver for the record attempt signifies that the interior is configured for maximum control and safety at extreme velocities.

Final Thoughts

Many EVs are rising through the ranks. Many EVs are competitive in their price ranges and performance ranges. Many EVs may even be the best at certain things in their class. This car is not like those EVs.
It Is The Worlds Fastest Car.

News Courtesy: Car and Driver + Top Gear
Image Courtesy: BYD + Yangwang + Car Magazine