The YangWang U9 Xtreme from BYD has redefined the hypercar segment with its staggering performance and exclusivity. Powered by four electric motors, the U9 Xtreme generates a record-breaking 2,978 horsepower and achieves a top speed of 308.4 mph (496.22 km/h).

This limited-run hypercar is priced at over 20 million yuan (approximately $2.92 million at current exchange rates), making it one of the most expensive production cars ever offered by BYD. For comparison, the standard YangWang U9 starts at just 1.8 million yuan ($263,000).

First Buyers Emerge at the Beijing Auto Show

Li Yunfei, BYD Group’s branding and PR lead, confirmed via social media that several orders for the U9 Xtreme were secured during the Beijing Auto Show. Among the buyers is Australian billionaire Nick Politis, estimated to be worth over AU$4.5 billion ($3.2 billion). Politis’ U9 Xtreme will be the only one delivered in Australia, with delivery expected in early 2025.

Exclusivity and Cutting-Edge Technology

The U9 Xtreme is limited to just 30 units, ensuring extreme exclusivity. Its powertrain features a 1,200-volt platform, a first for production vehicles, and delivers unmatched power output. The hypercar also boasts a 1,200-volt architecture, enabling rapid charging and high-performance efficiency.

Track Performance: Dominating the Nürburgring

Last year, the U9 Xtreme set a benchmark on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, completing a lap in 6:57.147. This time beat competitors like the Rimac Nevera and Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, though it remains slower than a Porsche 911 GT3 RS and nearly 20 seconds behind the Ford Mustang GTD Competition.

Speed Records and Industry Impact

The U9 Xtreme’s top speed of 308.4 mph surpassed the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ (261 mph) and the SSC Tuatara (282.9 mph), though official two-way average records remain unconfirmed. Whether customer cars will achieve these speeds or be software-limited for practicality is yet to be disclosed.

Why the U9 Xtreme Stands Out

  • Unprecedented Power: The first production car to feature a 1,200-volt platform, delivering 2,978 hp.
  • Record-Breaking Speed: Top speed of 308.4 mph, outperforming established hypercar brands.
  • Exclusivity: Only 30 units will be produced, ensuring rarity and prestige.
  • Premium Pricing: Priced at over $2.92 million, rivaling brands like Koenigsegg and Bugatti.

As BYD continues to push boundaries in electric mobility, the YangWang U9 Xtreme represents a bold statement in the hypercar market—combining extreme performance, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled exclusivity.

Source: CarScoops