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BYD Yangwang U9 Xtreme sets world speed record in Abu Dhabi
BYD’s luxury sub-brand, Yangwang, has set a new world speed record with its Yangwang U9 Xtreme electric hypercar. During a high-speed test on November 1, 2026, the vehicle reached 503.17 km/h (312.17 mph) on a closed section of the Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed International Road in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The achievement, recognized by both the FIA and Guinness World Records, makes the U9 Xtreme the first production car in history to surpass the 500 km/h barrier. It holds two Guinness titles: the fastest production car and the fastest electric production car in a single-direction run. German racing driver Marc Basseng piloted the vehicle, which features four electric motors producing over 3,000 horsepower and a 1,200-volt architecture.
Following an initial attempt that reached 490 km/h, engineers adjusted the car’s aerodynamics, suspension, and tire pressure to secure the record. The U9 Xtreme is a track-focused version of the standard Yangwang U9, utilizing a specialized Blade Battery and semi-slick tires developed with Giti Tire. Only 30 units of this hypercar are planned for production.
In a separate announcement in Abu Dhabi, Yangwang also unveiled the Altior, an ultra-luxury electric sedan designed to compete with high-end models like the Rolls-Royce Phantom. The Altior features a range exceeding 1,000 km, advanced interior materials such as Hetian jade, and technical capabilities including the ability to perform tank turns and rotate in place.
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Abu Dhabi · BYD · FIA · Guinness World Records · Marc Basseng · Yangwang · Yangwang U9 Xtreme