The Yangwang U9, the electric sports car with which BYD aims to reach 500 km/h, suffers a catastrophic accident

The BYD Yangwang U9 Xtreme, currently regarded as the most powerful and fastest production car in the world, was involved in an accident during what appears to have been an attempt to set a new speed record. The company had previously confirmed its intention to break through the 500 km/h barrier (its previous record was 496.22 km/h).

According to CarNewsChina, the accident occurred on a closed track in China. The vehicle lost control at high speed and collided with a barrier. Although the rear axle was completely detached, the driver remained unharmed; in fact, he exited the car on his own. No further details about the incident are available at this time.

It is interesting to note that, according to previous reports from several BYD executives, the record attempt was supposed to take place in Dubai. It is unclear whether these plans have changed, or if the accident occurred merely during a test. At first glance, everything suggests that the record attempt will be made coinciding with the launch of the Yangwang Altior, BYD’s new luxury vehicle.

Stella Li, BYD’s executive vice president, announced a few days ago that the company aims to exceed 500 km/h this very month. Hu Xiaoqing, general manager of Yangwang’s sales division, later confirmed this goal.

The Yangwang U9 Xtreme delivers over 3,000 horsepower

The Yangwang U9 Xtreme is BYD’s technological jewel, playing a role similar to that of the Bugatti Veyron for Volkswagen Group two decades ago. Its propulsion system consists of four electric motors with a combined total power of 3,018 HP (2,220 kW). The difference compared to other electric hypercars is simply enormous.

Its LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) battery offers a discharge rate of 30C. It has a capacity of 80 kWh, which is not much for a vehicle of these specifications; however, it is assumed to be compatible with the Flash Charging 2.0 ultra-fast charging system, which allows it to go from 10% to 70% in 5 minutes and from 10% to 97% in 9 minutes.

The U9 Xtreme is equipped with the DiSus-X active suspension system; it also features a custom body kit consisting of a front carbon fiber splitter and a dual rear diffuser. Its 20-inch wheels are fitted with GitiSport e.GTR2 Pro semi-slick tires, while the braking system includes titanium calipers and carbon ceramic discs.

Source | CarNewsChina