China: BYD's electric hypercar hits 293 mph to set new world record

China’s BYD sub-brand Yangwang has set a new world record for electric vehicles (EVs) with its U9 Track Edition hypercar, reaching a top speed of 293.54 mph on August 8 in Germany. This 3,000-horsepower quad-motor car surpasses the previous EV speed record of 272.6 mph held by Japan’s Aspark Owl in 2024, demonstrating that electric hypercars can now outperform many traditional combustion-engine rivals. The U9 Track Edition builds on the standard U9 platform but features significant upgrades, including a pioneering 1,200-volt ultra-high-voltage system and advanced thermal management, enabling it to sustain immense power without overheating. The vehicle’s four electric motors each produce 744.26 horsepower and can spin up to 30,000 rpm, collectively delivering nearly 3,000 horsepower. It incorporates Yangwang’s DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System for exceptional handling, allowing maneuvers like driving on three