The record-breaking run took place on Sunday, November 1, along Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed International Road (E11) in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region, United Arab Emirates. The achievement represents a significant breakthrough for electric vehicle technology, demonstrating that battery-powered production cars can compete with the world's fastest combustion-engine supercars. The record was officially recognized by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport and an international federation for mobility organizations.
BYD's achievement also earned the company two Guinness World Records for the highest speed achieved by a production car and the highest speed achieved by an electric production car in a single-direction run.
German racing veteran behind the wheel
The historic attempt was completed by German racing and endurance driver Marc Basseng, who took control of the powerful electric supercar during the high-speed run. Before attempting the record, Basseng warmed the vehicle's tires and gradually increased speed along the specially prepared stretch of road. The car eventually reached 503.17 kmph, breaking the previously established production-car speed barrier and making automotive history.
The attempt required extensive preparation. BYD reportedly spent two days ensuring that the vehicle and surrounding conditions were suitable for the record-breaking run. Working with local authorities, organizers secured permission to close a 10-kilometer section of the road, which included a seven-kilometer straight designed to provide sufficient space for acceleration and high-speed testing.
Yangwang U9 Xtreme: A new benchmark for electric supercars
The Yangwang U9 Xtreme is the high-performance version of BYD's luxury electric supercar, the Yangwang U9. The vehicle features an advanced electric powertrain and sophisticated engineering designed to deliver extreme acceleration, high-speed stability, and performance.
Its achievement challenges the traditional perception that electric vehicles are primarily designed for efficiency and everyday transportation rather than extreme performance. By crossing 500 kmph, the U9 Xtreme has demonstrated the potential of advanced electric propulsion systems in the hypercar segment.
BYD strengthens its position in the global automotive industry.
The record is another major achievement for BYD, which has rapidly expanded its international presence and strengthened its position in the global electric vehicle market. The Chinese manufacturer has invested heavily in battery technology, electric powertrains, and advanced vehicle engineering. The Yangwang brand represents BYD's move into the premium and ultra-luxury automotive market, where performance, technology, and innovation are central to its strategy.
The U9 Xtreme's record-breaking performance could further increase international attention on Chinese automotive engineering and the growing capabilities of electric supercars. With a verified top speed of 503.17 km/h, the Yangwang U9 Xtreme has established a new benchmark for production electric vehicles and demonstrated how rapidly high-performance electric automotive technology is advancing.
