Chinese automaker BYD announced that the Yangwang U9 Track Edition has reached a top speed of 472.41 km/h (293.54 mph) at a test track in Germany, making it the fastest electric vehicle in the world.

The record run took place on August 8 at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg facilities, with professional driver Marc Basseng behind the wheel. The previous record was held by the Rimac Nevera R that hit 431.45 km/h (268.2 mph) on July 2025. Furthermore, the Track Edition proved to be much faster than the standard Yangwang U9 that reached 391.94 km/h (243.54 mph) in November 2024.

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The Track Edition is fitted with quad electric motors generating a peak power of 744 hp (555 kW / 755 PS) each. According to BYD, the combined output is over 2,960 hp (2,207 kW / 3,000 PS), translating to an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 1,200 hp per tonne. By comparison, the Nevera R has 1,989 hp (1,571 kW / 2,017 PS) and a ratio of 978 hp per tonne.

In order to control all that power, the EV utilizes advanced torque vectoring abilities, and the e4 Platform’s DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System making automatic adjustments to the suspension for maximum grip. Furthermore, it is said to be use “the first mass-produced 1200V ultra-high-voltage vehicle platform, paired with a thermal-management system optimized for extreme conditions”.

BYD

The Yangwang U9 Track Edition made its first appearance earlier this month through China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The model that achieved the record appears to have duct tape on the panel gaps for improved aerodynamics. It also features an optional redesigned carbon fiber splitter and does without the swan neck rear wing.

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The record-breaking EV rides on a set of track-focused semi-slick tires developed in collaboration with Giti Tire. These feature optimized compound materials and a bespoke tread design, along with a high-viscosity lubricant and a special knurling treatment between the tire and the rim for minimizing relative slippage.

Basseng, who was also behind the wheel of the previous record run with the regular Yangwang U9, said: “Last year, I thought I’d peaked. I never expected to break my own record so soon – but here we are, at the same track, with new technologies that have made it possible.”