BYD’s Yangwang U9 Sets New Nurburgring Lap Record for Electric Hypercars

Covers F1, endurance and rally with a fan’s eye and reporter’s detail. Daily: Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce; sim racing on weeknights.
In a remarkable feat of engineering, BYD's Yangwang U9 Xtreme has shattered the Nurburgring lap record for electric hypercars. The Chinese automaker continues to push boundaries in the EV space, following its recent achievement of breaking the EV top speed record.
The automotive world was abuzz when BYD's Yangwang U9 Xtreme sped its way into the record books with a blistering Nurburgring Nordschleife lap time of 6 minutes and 59.157 seconds. This milestone not only cements the Chinese manufacturer's reputation in the hypercar segment but also showcases the rapid advancements in electric vehicle technology. The Nurburgring, known as the 'Green Hell', is one of the most challenging tracks globally, making this achievement all the more impressive. The track's demanding nature tests a vehicle's limits, and the U9's performance indicates a significant leap in EV capabilities, particularly in terms of speed and control.
The Yangwang U9 Track Edition stands as a testament to BYD's engineering prowess. Built on the innovative e4 platform, it features a groundbreaking 1200V ultra-high-voltage architecture, marking a first in mass-produced automobiles. This advanced system powers four electric motors, each capable of reaching 30,000 rpm and providing 744 hp per motor. The cumulative output of these motors propels the car to nearly 3000 hp, delivering a staggering power-to-weight ratio of 1205 hp per tonne. Such specifications not only enable the U9 to achieve breathtaking speeds but also enhance its agility and handling on the track.
This record-setting performance follows closely on the heels of another significant achievement by BYD. Just last month, the Yangwang U9 Xtreme set an electric vehicle top speed record of 294 mph, surpassing the renowned Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+. These accomplishments position BYD as a formidable player in the hypercar industry, challenging established brands and setting new standards for electric vehicle performance. The convergence of cutting-edge technology and innovative engineering has enabled BYD to redefine what electric vehicles can achieve, both in terms of speed and environmental impact.
The implications of BYD's achievements extend beyond mere records. As the automotive industry faces increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, advancements like those seen in the Yangwang U9 offer a glimpse into a future where high performance and sustainability coexist. BYD's success also highlights the shifting dynamics in the global automotive market, with Chinese manufacturers leading the charge in electric vehicle innovation. This trend is likely to spur further competition and technological development, benefiting consumers and the environment alike.

About Luca Romano
Covers F1, endurance and rally with a fan’s eye and reporter’s detail. Daily: Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce; sim racing on weeknights.