Electric Speedster from BYD Outsprints Rimac to Hold Title as Quickest Electric Vehicle Globally
In a groundbreaking achievement, German racing driver Marc Basseng has set a new record for the highest speed of an electric vehicle (EV). On August 8, 2025, at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg facilities in Germany, Basseng piloted the Yangwang U9 Track Edition to a top speed of 472.41 km/h (293.54 mph).
The Yangwang U9 Track Edition, a high-performance variant of the original Yangwang U9, is equipped with quad electric motors, each generating a peak power of 744 hp (555 kW / 755 PS). This makes it the first mass-produced 1200V ultra-high-voltage vehicle platform.
The record-breaking speed of the Yangwang U9 Track Edition has solidified its position as the fastest EV in the world, surpassing the previous record held by the Rimac Nevera R, which reached 431.45 km/h (268.2 mph).
To prepare for the record attempt, the vehicle was fitted with a set of track-focused semi-slick tires developed in collaboration with Giti Tire. These tires featured optimized compound materials, a bespoke tread design, high-viscosity lubricant, and a special knurling treatment between the tire and the rim for minimizing relative slippage.
To further enhance its performance, the Yangwang U9 Track Edition utilizes advanced torque vectoring abilities and the e4 Platform's DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System for maximum grip. The model also features an optional redesigned carbon fiber splitter and does without the swan neck rear wing.
In an interesting twist, the record-breaking EV was adorned with duct tape on the panel gaps for improved aerodynamics.
The record-breaking run was not Basseng's first at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg facilities. He previously held the record with the regular Yangwang U9.
The Yangwang U9 Track Edition made its first appearance earlier this month through China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. With its impressive power-to-weight ratio of 1,200 hp per tonne and a combined output of over 2,960 hp (2,207 kW / 3,000 PS), the EV is poised to redefine the boundaries of electric vehicle performance.
This record-breaking achievement is a testament to the growing potential of electric vehicles and the innovative steps being taken to push their performance limits. As the world continues to transition towards sustainable transportation, milestones like these serve as a beacon of what is possible in the future of EV technology.
