CarteaNewsCar Buyer's GuideChina Surpasses Bugatti with the Yangwang U9 Xtreme at 496 km per hour

China Surpasses Bugatti with the Yangwang U9 Xtreme at 496 km per hour

Ahd Kamal
Ahd Kamal
2025-10-18
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In a historic milestone that reshaped the world of speed, Yangwang, the luxury division of China’s BYD Group, announced a new global record in September 2025 with its all electric hypercar U9 Xtreme. The car reached a top speed of 496.22 km per hour at the ATP proving ground in Papenburg, Germany. This astonishing achievement dethroned the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+, which had held the record since 2019 with 490.484 km per hour. With this victory, China now holds the title of the fastest production car in the world, marking a turning point in the history of electric performance.

A Record That Redefines Speed


German driver Mark Basseng piloted the U9 Xtreme during an officially documented test in Germany, reaching 496.22 km per hour in front of international media coverage. The event was not just a new number on paper, it was a powerful statement of how far Chinese electric engineering has come, challenging long standing European dominance in hypercar performance.

Key Performance Highlights:

  • Recorded top speed: 496.22 km per hour

  • Total power output: around 3000 hp

  • Drive system: independent quad motor all wheel drive

  • Voltage system: high performance setup for maximum stability at extreme speeds

  • Test location: ATP proving ground, Papenburg, Germany

  • Driver: Mark Basseng (Germany)


This record not only secured Yangwang the title of the world’s fastest production car but also marked China’s first global speed crown in the electric vehicle category. While Bugatti had held the throne for years, the U9 Xtreme proved that the era of electric power has surpassed traditional combustion engines at the highest levels of performance, ushering in a new chapter in the global race for speed.

The Electric Power That Changed the Game


The Yangwang U9 Xtreme is built on an advanced electric platform developed by BYD, featuring the renowned Blade battery known for its high efficiency and superior thermal management that maintains peak performance even under extreme pressure at high speeds. The car’s quad motor all wheel drive system distributes torque instantly to each wheel, ensuring perfect balance and exceptional stability on the road.


Technical Specifications:

  • Battery: BYD Blade battery

  • Voltage system: High voltage setup with intelligent cooling capability

  • Suspension: Electronically adaptive system for road and speed response

  • Tires: Semi slick performance tires designed for maximum speed

  • Acceleration (0–100 km/h): 2.3 seconds

  • Top speed (Xtreme version): 496 km/h

  • Production units: Limited to 30 cars worldwide


The standard U9 reaches a top speed of 309 km/h, while the Xtreme version was engineered exclusively to push the limits of Chinese electric performance. Its aerodynamic design, intelligent power distribution, and luxurious identity all played a role in achieving this record. Surpassing cars like the SSC Tuatara, which recorded 455.3 km/h in 2021, the Yangwang U9 Xtreme firmly establishes itself as a new icon in the world of hypercar performance.

UAE Becomes the New Hub for Electric Hypercars


Supercars have always held a special place in the UAE’s culture of luxury and performance, symbolizing prestige and cutting edge engineering. With Yangwang officially entering the GCC market through BYD’s established network, the U9 Xtreme is expected to attract strong attention from speed enthusiasts and tech driven drivers across the Emirates.


Key Highlights of Yangwang’s Presence in the UAE:

  • Limited availability of the exclusive U9 Xtreme for collectors seeking rarity

  • Specialized maintenance services and continuous software updates

  • Ultra fast charging infrastructure aligned with the UAE’s advanced facilities

  • Full compatibility with the region’s hot climate through intelligent battery cooling systems

  • Software customization options tailored to local driving preferences


This milestone marks a defining moment for performance lovers in the GCC, positioning the electric hypercar as a true rival to European legends like Bugatti and Koenigsegg. While Bugatti remains an icon of mechanical elegance and sound, Yangwang U9 Xtreme introduces a new definition of speed, one powered by silent strength, clean energy, and sustainable innovation.

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Ahd KamalAhd Kamal
Chief editor information:

My passion for cars began long before my journey into automotive journalism in 2015. Even though I'm originally a pharmacist, the thrill of speed, elegant designs, and roaring engines has always had my heart. Today, I channel this passion by exploring the newest cars and sharing my experiences with fellow car enthusiasts across the GCC.