Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD has unveiled its first-ever electric supercar, Yangwang U9.
The world’s largest EV company recently surpassed Tesla to become the world’s largest EV manufacturer.
The high-performance electric supercar is priced at a competitive US$233,400 (equivalent to approximately Ksh 33,575,476).
The Yangwang U9 is positioned to rival petrol-guzzling options offered by rivals such as Ferrari and Lamborghini.
A comparable model like the petrol-powered Ferrari Roma is priced at 2.76 million yuan, while a Lamborghini Huracan sells for 2.54 million yuan, 64 per cent and 51 per cent higher than the U9, respectively.
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.
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According to the EV manufacturer, the Yangwang U9 supercar can clock a top speed of 309 kmph and accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 2.36 seconds. The performance is better than that of certain supercars powered by 12-cylinder engines.
The Yangwang U9 is equipped with four electric motors, each generating 240 kW of peak power for a combined peak capacity of 960 kW.
BYD Yangwang U9: Dual-Charging Technology
According to BYD the supercar has been subjected to thorough testing within a thermal management system, ensuring functionality in extreme temperatures.
It features BYD’s Blade Battery technology, enhancing both cooling efficiency and enabling rapid charging of up to 500 kW.
It features BYD’s Blade Battery technology, which not only speeds up cooling but also allows for rapid charging of up to 500 kW.
Additionally, equipped with dual charging technology featuring two charging guns, it can charge from 30% to 80% in a mere 10 minutes.
The EV maker said the supercar boasts a range of up to 450 km on a single charge.
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All-Wheel Drive Technology
BYD has also highlighted technology that allows all four wheels to be controlled separately, allowing for more stable and safe driving.
Furthermore, the supercar is furnished with 12 active and passive aerodynamic packages aimed at diminishing drag coefficients and improving heat dissipation efficiency.
In terms of design, the BYD Yangwang U9 exudes an aura of futurism, characterized by sleek lines and distinctive gullwing doors.
This two-seater masterpiece measures 4,966 mm in length, 2,029 mm in width, and 1,295 mm in height, with a wheelbase spanning 2,900 mm.
The sleek design also includes slim LED headlights and a large front grille. The alloy wheels measure 20 inches.
