The BYD Yangwang U9 Extreme is preparing for another high-speed attempt, with the electric hypercar targeting speeds above 310 mph in Dubai in November. The planned run would build on its verified 308 mph top-speed record as BYD seeks to push the limits of electric vehicle performance.
BYD Yangwang U9 Extreme Aims to Go Faster
The Yangwang brand represents BYD’s top offerings in technology, efficiency and performance. Its U9 Extreme hypercar showcases the company’s efforts to advance electric vehicle speed and capability.
The U9 Extreme has already recorded a verified top speed of 308 mph. Its powertrain delivers 3,000 horsepower, while its electric motors can reach speeds of up to 30,000 rpm.
BYD is now preparing to pursue an even higher speed. Executive Vice President Stella Li said the company plans to attempt another run in November, aiming to exceed 500 km/h, or approximately 310 mph, in Dubai.
BYD Searches for a Suitable Location in Dubai
The planned attempt requires a stretch of road at least 15 kilometers long. Li said the team is working with local authorities to identify a suitable location.
The company has not yet announced the exact venue or date. The latest announcement also differs from an earlier plan involving Germany’s Automotive Testing Papenburg, known as ATP.
It remains unclear whether BYD will conduct separate high-speed attempts in Germany and Dubai or has decided to move the planned run from Germany to the United Arab Emirates.
How the Yangwang U9 Extreme Compares With Other Cars
The Yangwang U9 Extreme’s 308 mph run puts it ahead of several other high-performance vehicles in top-speed comparisons.
The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300 reached 304 mph with an internal combustion engine and no electric assistance. In 2017, the Koenigsegg Agera RS recorded a top speed of 277 mph.
BYD’s next attempt could push the U9 Extreme beyond 310 mph, extending its lead over the speeds recorded by those vehicles.
Engineering Challenges at More Than 310 MPH
Reaching speeds above 310 mph presents substantial engineering challenges. At such extreme velocities, the vehicle must maintain safe operation while managing the physical demands of high-speed driving.
The planned attempt will test how far BYD can push the U9 Extreme beyond its existing 308 mph record. The company has not yet confirmed the exact date or location of the proposed Dubai run.
