Chinese BYD EV Sets World Production Speed Record at 472 km/h

Chinese automaker BYD, through its luxury arm Yangwang, has set a new world speed record for electric vehicles with the U9 Track Edition supercar, reaching a verified top speed of approximately 293.5 to 294 mph at Germany's ATP proving grounds. This quad-motor vehicle delivers over 3,000 horsepower and features advanced aerodynamics and a unique suspension designed for stability at extreme speeds, positioning it as the fastest production-based EV to date. The record-breaking run was achieved by German driver Marc Basseng and challenges previous EV speed records held by the Rimac Nevera, while nearing the top speed of combustion-engine supercars like the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+. BYD's U9 Track Edition highlights the rapid ascent of Chinese EV technology, demonstrating capabilities not only in affordability and technology but also in high-performance supercar territory. Despite this achievement, Tesla's upcoming Roadster is projected to surpass the U9 in acceleration, top speed, and range, suggesting a competitive and evolving landscape at the top end of electric vehicle performance. BYD's accomplishment underscores China's growing influence in the global automotive industry, particularly in the high-performance electric vehicle segment.