BYD Unveils the Yangwang U9 02 Test Car with Over 3,000 Ps Output
EV editor focused on charging, batteries and ownership costs. Drives a Kia EV6 GT and does tough winter range tests.
In a bold move that underscores its commitment to high-performance electric vehicles, BYD has unveiled a teaser for its Yangwang U9 02 test car. The prototype boasts an unprecedented power output of 2,978 horsepower, a claim that positions it as one of the most powerful electric vehicles in the world. This announcement follows the success of the U9 model, which recently set a new global speed record for electric vehicles.
The Yangwang U9 02 test car was introduced in a brief teaser video, showcasing the vehicle as it emerged from a garage. While BYD has been tight-lipped about the specific design and technical details of this prototype, the focus has been on its sheer power output. At 2,220 kW, equivalent to 2,978 hp, this vehicle promises to redefine expectations in the electric vehicle market. The Yangwang U9 series has already captured the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide, with the earlier U9 model breaking the electric vehicle speed record by reaching 472.41 km/h. This achievement was made possible through innovative technologies developed by BYD, including a new ultra-high voltage platform and advanced motor systems.
The U9 02 test car's power is derived from BYD's e4 (Yi Sifang) platform, featuring four motors that each spin at 30,000 rpm. Together, these motors produce a total system output of 2,220 kW, equating to almost 3,000 horsepower. This setup not only delivers raw power but also ensures a remarkable power-to-weight ratio, surpassing some of the most prestigious hypercars currently on the market. The use of a 1,200V ultra-high voltage platform allows the vehicle to efficiently harness and distribute energy, maintaining stability and performance even at extreme speeds.
Stability and handling are critical at high speeds, and BYD has equipped the U9 with its DiSus-X intelligent active body control system. This advanced technology continuously adapts the vehicle's posture to optimize grip and handling, ensuring safety and comfort even under demanding conditions. The car's performance is further supported by specialized high-performance tires, designed to withstand speeds of up to 500 km/h. These tires feature a semi-slick construction and a wide tread, enhancing the vehicle's contact with the road and providing necessary traction for high-speed maneuvers.
The U9's record-setting achievements have not only demonstrated BYD's engineering prowess but have also set new benchmarks in the electric vehicle industry. The car's ability to reach such high speeds has drawn comparisons to traditional supercars and hypercars, challenging perceptions of electric vehicles as being solely eco-friendly alternatives to gasoline-powered cars. These advancements signal a shift in the automotive landscape, where electric vehicles are increasingly viewed as viable contenders in performance and luxury segments.
While BYD has not released detailed specifications or a production timeline for the Yangwang U9 02, the prototype's reveal is a testament to the company's ambition in the electric vehicle market. The emphasis on high-performance electric vehicles is likely to attract attention from enthusiasts and investors alike, as the company continues to push the boundaries of what electric vehicles can achieve. With the automotive industry rapidly evolving, BYD's innovations could play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation.
About Elena Park
EV editor focused on charging, batteries and ownership costs. Drives a Kia EV6 GT and does tough winter range tests.
