BYD unveils electric supercar Yangwang U9, priced at 1.68 million RMB

The YANGWANG U9 reaches a top speed of 309.19 km/h and can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.36 seconds

BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles and power battery, unveiled the first pure electric supercar model U9 under its high-end sub-brand, YANGWANG, priced at 1.68 million RMB, and announced the delivery will start in this summer.

Adopting the “Time Gate” design language, the YANGWANG U9 embodies a distinctive aesthetic, characterized by unique proportions, tension, and power, reflecting its identity as a pure electric supercar.

The Yangwang U9 will initially be for the China market, the company said at a live-streamed event in Shanghai. The car can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.36 seconds and reach a top speed of 309.19 km/h, it said.  Besides, after rigorous track testing, the U9 has fine-tuned its thermal management system to better resist high temperatures, resulting in a 100% increase in maximum cooling capacity. The Blade Battery facilitates discharging and cooling functions and Dual Plug-in Ultra-fast charging technology boasts a maximum charging power of 500 kW. Additionally, YANGWANG U9 is equipped with 12 sets of active and passive aerodynamic packages to reduce drag coefficient and enhance heat dissipation efficiency.

The YANGWANG U9 is equipped with the DiLink150 intelligent platform, powered by customized 4nm 5G chips. Specifically designed for track driving, it boasts an intelligent racing assistantance, providing extensive track driving services with detailed information on nearly 30 racetracks across China.

Inside, the YANGWANG U9’s cockpit features two 14-way adjustable seats to offer drivers and passengers with better experience. It also boasts the Dynaudio Evidence Series high-end audio system, offering an immersive auditory experience.

BYD became the biggest EV seller globally, overtaking Tesla in the last quarter of 2023. While it is better known for making affordable EVs, the company markets its luxury models under the Yangwang and Fang Cheng Bao brands.

With a post-Lunar New Year price war looming in China, the Shenzhen-based giant is betting there remains a market for high-end products which deliver better margins. Other pricey EVs under the Yangwang brand are due to launch later this year in China including a luxury sedan that will cost around 1 million yuan.

Yangwang started delivering cars in late November. It has one production model so far, a luxury sports utility vehicle known as the U8 which costs 1.1 million yuan. The company has delivered 3,653 units as of the end of January.