China, LOGIC.co.id - In recent years, the global automotive industry has witnessed the unstoppable rise of electric vehicles. One standout name is BYD, the Chinese automotive giant that is now making an even bolder move by launching the BYD Yangwang U9—an electric supercar poised to challenge legendary brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Rimac. With its exceptional performance, cutting-edge technology, and unconventional features, the Yangwang U9 is more than just an electric car. It’s a declaration of China's ambition to dominate the global automotive stage. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this supercar so special.
Insane Performance: 1,287 HP and Lightning-Fast Acceleration
The BYDYangwang U9 is no ordinary electric vehicle. Powered by four electric motors—each driving one wheel—it delivers a combined output of 1,287 horsepower and a peak torque of 1,680 Nm. These figures place it in the same league as electric hypercars like the Rimac Nevera, albeit with a slightly different approach.
Speed? The Yangwang U9 rockets from 0-100 km/h in just 2.36 seconds. This puts it on par with the fastest gasoline-powered supercars in the world. During tests at the Shanghai International Circuit, it clocked a top speed of 309.19 km/h, while recent reports mention a potential top speed of 391.94 km/h under optimal conditions. For the 400-meter drag race, the U9 completed it in 9.78 seconds, outperforming many rivals in its price class, such as the McLaren Artura, which takes 10.7 seconds.
However, performance isn’t the only highlight. Weighing in at 2,475 kg, the U9 is heavier than other supercars like the Rimac Nevera (2,300 kg). Yet it remains agile thanks to its all-wheel-drive power distribution and advanced technology.
Disus-X Suspension Technology: Jumping, Dancing, and Driving on Three Wheels
One of the most striking features of the BYD Yangwang U9 is its Disus-X suspension system. This exclusive BYD innovation takes the supercar to a whole new level. It enables the car to perform feats more suited to a sci-fi movie than a mass-production vehicle:
- Jumping: In tests, the U9 could leap over obstacles like nails or potholes, covering more than 6 meters at 120 km/h. This uses active suspension that instantly lifts the vehicle’s body. • Dancing: The Disus-X suspension allows rhythmic up-and-down motion. This "dancing" effect went viral on social media and even amazed popular streamer iShowSpeed during a live demonstration. • Driving on three wheels: If one wheel fails, the U9 can still drive stably on just three wheels—a rare capability among cars.
The “tank turn” feature is another highlight. The U9 can spin 360 degrees on the spot like a tank, a feature inherited from its sibling, the Yangwang U8 SUV. This technology is more than just a gimmick; it enhances maneuverability in tight spaces, making this 4,966 mm x 2,029 mm x 1,295 mm supercar more practical than you’d expect.
Battery and Charging: Efficiency Meets Speed
The BYD Yangwang U9 is equipped with an 80 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery. It offers a range of up to 465 km based on China’s CLTC standard. While this may sound optimistic compared to the stricter WLTP standard, the LFP battery is chosen for its advantages in safety, durability, and lower production costs compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries.
Charging is another strong suit. With 800V architecture and a maximum charging power of 500 kW, the U9 can charge from 30% to 80% in just 10 minutes. A dual charging port setup even allows two chargers to be connected simultaneously for maximum speed. This smart solution minimizes downtime at charging stations.
Design and Materials: The World's Largest Carbon Monocoque
Aesthetically, the Yangwang U9 features sharp, futuristic aerodynamic lines. Its body is built using a carbon fiber monocoque, claimed to be the largest ever for a mass-produced vehicle. This material is five to six times stronger than steel and is produced at a specialized facility in Shenshan, China, where temperature and humidity are controlled to medical-grade standards for precision.
The interior is equally impressive, featuring three LCD displays. Two 10.25-inch screens serve the driver and passenger, while a central 12.3-inch screen runs BYD’s DiLink system powered by a custom 5G and 4nm chip developed in partnership with Qualcomm. The cockpit design is minimalist yet functional, with a focus on comfort and technology.
Nürburgring Performance: Real-World Proof
To prove it’s more than just a showpiece, BYD tested the U9 on the Nürburgring Nordschleife—the world’s most challenging racetrack. After six months of intense testing and over 100 technical setups and tire configurations, the U9 recorded a lap time of 7 minutes and 17.9 seconds in November 2024. This made it the fastest Chinese production car on the track, exceeding the expectations of many automotive observers.
Although it hasn't yet made the official Nürburgring list due to pending European market certification, this achievement confirms that the Yangwang U9 isn’t just about straight-line speed. It excels in stability and handling through sharp corners.
Price and Sales: Affordable Luxury?
Priced at 1.68 million yuan (around IDR 3.6 billion), the Yangwang U9 offers exceptional value compared to other electric supercars like the Rimac Nevera, which costs around IDR 31 billion or more. Since its launch in February 2024 and deliveries starting in August 2024, 100 units have been sold in China as of January 2025. This outpaces local rivals such as the GAC Aion Hyper SSR (19 units in 2024) and shows its appeal in the premium segment, even if it remains limited to the domestic market.
Challenges and the Future
Despite its impressive credentials, the U9 is not without flaws. Its considerable weight and less competitive range in the global context are noted drawbacks. However, as BYD’s first step into the supercar world, the Yangwang U9 sets a new standard for Chinese electric vehicles. With global expansion plans and further development, we may soon witness even more astonishing evolutions from the Yangwang lineup.
Conclusion: A Serious Contender in the Supercar Arena
The BYD Yangwang U9 proves that electric technology isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about extreme performance and unexpected innovation. From jumping capabilities to Nürburgring lap times, this supercar blends engineering marvels with a relatively accessible price tag. For automotive enthusiasts seeking a new alternative in the supercar realm, the U9 is a name worth remembering. Will it shake the thrones of Ferrari and Lamborghini? Time will tell. For now, the Yangwang U9 has certainly stolen the spotlight.