BYD Yangwang U9 Xtreme reaches 503.17 km/h in Abu Dhabi

BYD’s electric Yangwang U9 Xtreme recorded a top speed of 503.17 km/h (312.66 mph) on a closed Abu Dhabi highway, with the run recognized by the FIA and Guinness World Records. Coverage agrees on the record-setting speed but differs in how much attention it gives to the run’s conditions and qualifications.

• The U9 Xtreme reached 503.17 km/h (312.66 mph) in Abu Dhabi on November 1; the FIA and Guinness World Records recognized the run.· 2 sources
• The attempt took place on a closed section of the E11 highway in Al Dhafra, including a seven-kilometer straight.· 2 sources
• Racing driver Marc Basseng drove the record run. Electrek reports that the record followed adjustments to the rear wing, damping and tire pressures after a first-day attempt.· 2 sources
• Electrek says the Guinness titles for this attempt specify a single-direction run and contrasts that with the traditional two-direction average used for production-car speed records.· 1 source
• The car uses four electric motors and a 1,200-volt architecture; BYD plans to build 30 units.· 2 sources