"BYD’s YANGWANG U9 Track Edition Shatters Speed Records: The World’s Fastest Electric Supercar Hits 293.54 mph!"

BYD Unveils the World’s Fastest Fully Electric Supercar: The YANGWANG U9 Track Edition

In a groundbreaking achievement for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Chinese automaker BYD has officially set a new world record for the fastest fully electric supercar. The YANGWANG U9 Track Edition reached an astonishing top speed of 293.54 mph (472.41 km/h) on August 8, 2023, at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg test track in northern Germany. This remarkable feat surpasses the previous record of 268.2 mph (431.62 km/h), held by the Rimac Nevera R, which was set just a month prior.

Engineering Marvel

The YANGWANG U9 Track Edition boasts an impressive 2,960 horsepower and a power-to-weight ratio of 1,341.5 horsepower per ton (1,217 horsepower per tonne). This extraordinary performance is made possible by its innovative engineering, which includes four independent electric motors and a sophisticated four-wheel torque control system. These features allow for unparalleled acceleration and handling, enabling the vehicle to maintain stability at high speeds.

The car’s design retains a family resemblance to the standard YANGWANG U9, which was launched last summer with a respectable 1,300 horsepower. However, the Track Edition has been meticulously optimized for performance, incorporating advanced aerodynamics and a body control system that minimizes body roll during acceleration, deceleration, and cornering.

Battery Technology

At the heart of the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition is BYD’s proprietary lithium iron phosphate "Blade Battery." This battery design features a flat rectangular shape that enhances cooling efficiency and increases energy density. According to BYD, the battery can be charged from 30% to 80% in just half an hour, making it both powerful and practical for high-performance applications.

To achieve the record-breaking speed, BYD engineers implemented a temperature control system tailored for extreme conditions, ensuring that the battery and motor operate optimally even under stress. Additionally, the vehicle is built on what BYD claims is "the world’s first mass-produced 1200V ultra-high-voltage vehicle platform." This innovative platform allows for an average voltage of 1200 volts across the battery, motor, power supply, and other components, significantly enhancing performance and efficiency.

Driver’s Perspective

Marc Basseng, the professional racing driver who piloted the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition during the record-setting run, expressed his astonishment at the achievement. "Last year, I thought I’d peaked. I never expected to break my own record so soon," he stated. "But here we are, at the same track, with new technologies that have made it possible."

Implications for the EV Market

This new record not only positions BYD as a formidable player in the supercar market but also signals a significant shift in the capabilities of electric vehicles. With the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition now within striking distance of traditional gasoline-powered supercars, the landscape of high-performance vehicles is evolving rapidly. Currently, the fastest road-legal cars include the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut, which is estimated to reach a top speed of 310 mph (500 km/h), and the SSC Tuatara, which has achieved a speed of 295 mph (475 km/h).

Conclusion

BYD’s YANGWANG U9 Track Edition is a testament to the rapid advancements in electric vehicle technology. As the automotive industry continues to embrace electrification, the boundaries of performance are being pushed further than ever before. With this record-setting achievement, BYD not only showcases its engineering prowess but also sets a new benchmark for the future of electric supercars.