High-speed test ends in accident

A high-speed test involving BYD's Yangwang U9 Xtreme resulted in an accident on November 2, with footage circulating in China showing the vehicle leaving its trajectory at high speed on a closed track before hitting a barrier.

Vehicle sustains damage but driver is unharmed

The collision caused the rear axle to be torn off, but the driver was unharmed and was able to exit the vehicle on his own. No fire broke out following the incident.

Previous speed record set in Germany

The U9 Xtreme previously set a record in September 2025, reaching 496.22 km/h on a German test track in Papenburg, surpassing the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ from 2019. BYD aims to achieve a speed of 500 km/h.

Planned record attempt in Dubai

Stella Li, executive vice president of BYD, announced a record attempt in Dubai in November, on a 15-kilometer road to be identified with local police. The U9 Xtreme is equipped with 20-inch wheels with semi-slick GitiSport tires and features an aerodynamic kit with a large rear wing.

Safety features and battery integrity

The survival cell protecting the cabin remained intact, and the driver was able to extract himself from the wreckage on his own. No fire or smoke was observed from the battery pack, which uses lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistry known for its thermal stability.

New attempt delayed by prototype scrapping

BYD had planned a new attempt in November to finally close the matter once and for all. However, the scrapping of this prototype might delay the deadline. The choice of Dubai complicates the equation, as the 2025 record was set on a private test track in Papenburg.

Logistical challenges for Dubai attempt

Stella Li aims for a street that will need to be closed to traffic and secured. At full speed, 15 kilometers pass in less than two minutes, and the acceleration and braking from nearly 500 km/h must be accommodated. BYD has not publicly confirmed the road, the permissions, or the date of the attempt.