At the heart of the Yangwang U9 Track Edition is a quad-motor system, with each motor producing 744 horsepower, culminating in a total output of over 3,000 PS (2,959 hp). This setup, operating at an unprecedented 30,000 rpm, delivers a power-to-weight ratio of 1,217 PS per tonne, outstripping Ferrari’s SF90 Stradale (986 hp) and even the Bugatti Chiron (1,479 hp). In a historic feat, the U9 shattered the global EV speed record at Germany’s ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg track, reaching 293 mph (472.41 km/h)—a 20% improvement over the previous record. This achievement underscores BYD’s engineering prowess and signals a new era for electric performance vehicles.
Engineered for Track Excellence
The U9 Track Edition is built on BYD’s advanced e4 platform, paired with the DiSus-X intelligent suspension system, which allows the car to adapt dynamically to track conditions. Aerodynamic features, including vortex generators, a carbon-fiber rear wing, and an active diffuser, optimize airflow to maintain stability at high speeds. The car’s hydraulic body control system enables unique capabilities, such as “dancing” or jumping over obstacles, a feature that went viral with the standard U9’s debut. These innovations make the U9 not only a track beast but also a visual spectacle, capable of captivating audiences with its blend of form and function.
A Cockpit That Redefines Smart
Inside, the U9 Track Edition boasts what BYD calls “the smartest supercar cockpit.” A 12.8-inch curved center display anchors the infotainment system, complemented by a 23-inch driver display and optional 6-inch entertainment screens for passengers. Powered by BYD’s DiLink system and integrated with DeepSeek AI, the cockpit offers a racing assistant mode that analyzes track data with 0.01-second precision, learning from top drivers to optimize performance. This level of connectivity and intelligence sets the U9 apart, offering a user experience that blends luxury with cutting-edge functionality, rivaling the interiors of premium supercars.
Affordability Without Compromise
Priced at approximately $233,000 (1,680,000 yuan) in China, the Yangwang U9 Track Edition is a relative bargain in the supercar world. Ferrari’s SF90 Stradale starts at $525,000, and the Bugatti Chiron commands $3.3 million, yet the U9 delivers superior power and advanced features. BYD sweetens the deal with a lifetime warranty on the battery, motors, and electric control system, addressing concerns about long-term reliability. This pricing strategy challenges the exclusivity of traditional supercars, making high-performance EVs more accessible to enthusiasts and signaling a democratization of the segment.
Charging and Range for Real-World Use
The U9 Track Edition leverages BYD’s 1,200V ultra-high-volt platform for rapid charging and efficient power delivery. While exact range figures are not disclosed, the car’s 100 kWh Blade Battery is designed to balance performance with practicality, offering sufficient range for track days and spirited drives. The battery’s thermal management system ensures consistent performance under high loads, a critical feature for a vehicle pushing the boundaries of speed and power. This focus on usability makes the U9 a versatile option for both track enthusiasts and collectors.
Reshaping the Supercar Landscape
BYD’s entry into the supercar market comes at a pivotal moment. The global market for foldable smartphones may be slowing, but high-performance EVs are gaining traction. The U9’s 3,000-hp output and record-breaking speed challenge the dominance of internal combustion engine (ICE) supercars, forcing legacy brands to accelerate their electric transitions. Ferrari, set to launch its first fully electric supercar in 2025, faces pressure from BYD’s rapid innovation. European automakers, as noted by Ferrari’s CEO, must respond to Chinese manufacturers’ advancements or risk falling behind. The U9’s projected sales of 500 units in its first year may seem modest, but its influence could reshape consumer expectations for performance vehicles.
Global Ambitions and Challenges
BYD’s success with the U9 Track Edition reflects its broader ambitions to compete globally in premium segments. The company’s partnerships with high-profile figures like former Ferrari designer Wolfgang Egger, who contributed to the U9’s sleek aesthetic, demonstrate its commitment to excellence. However, challenges remain, including navigating export markets and meeting stringent safety regulations outside China. Despite these hurdles, BYD’s ability to deliver a supercar that outperforms rivals at half the price positions it as a formidable player in the global automotive industry.