The BYD-backed Yangwang U9 supercar has officially delivered 100 units within five months, marking a significant milestone in the high-performance EV market. This impressive machine, priced at 1,680,000 yuan (around 229,700 USD), boasts a peak power output of 960 kW (1,287 hp) and offers a CLTC range of up to 450 km. What really sets this vehicle apart is its innovative Disus X suspension and hydraulic system, enabling it to jump and dance, a spectacle that has captivated enthusiasts and drawn considerable attention.
Sales Performance and Market Impact
The Yangwang U9 hit the Chinese market in February 2024, initially in a single trim level. Deliveries began in September, and it quickly garnered attention. According to market data, Yangwang delivered 16 units in September, 17 in October, and 24 units in both November and December. By the end of 2024, cumulative sales had reached 81 units.
On January 21, Yangwang proudly announced the delivery of its 100th U9 sports car in China, indicating 19 units were sold in January 2025 alone. This achievement places the U9 as the first Chinese supercar to reach such a sales volume, underscoring its unique position in a highly competitive segment. For context, the GAC Hyptec SSR, a rival sports car starting at a lower 1,286,000 yuan (175,800 USD), sold only 19 units in all of 2024, making the U9’s sales performance all the more remarkable.
Engineering and Performance That Thrills
The demand for the U9 is no accident, with BYD’s marketing efforts highlighting its extreme capabilities. In November 2024, the Yangwang U9 tackled the iconic Nurburgring Nordschleife, completing a lap in an impressive 7:17.900 and hitting a top speed of 391.94 km/h. Later, in January 2025, BYD released a video showcasing the U9 autonomously jumping over road spikes, a striking demonstration of its advanced engineering and dynamic features.
At its core, the U9 is a two-door sports car measuring 4966/2029/1295 mm. Weighing in at 2,475 kg, it is substantial for a supercar. However, this weight is managed by four electric motors delivering a combined 960 kW (1,287 hp) and a massive 1,680 Nm of torque, propelling it from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 2.36 seconds. For comparison, the highly anticipated Yangwang U7 sedan also boasts impressive power figures.
Innovative Technology and Practicality
Beyond raw power, the U9 features an 80 kWh LFP battery pack, providing a 465 km range under CLTC conditions. Its 800V architecture enables rapid charging, going from 30% to 80% in just 10 minutes. The supercar also supports dual charging, allowing both charging guns to be plugged in simultaneously for even faster top-ups. However, the U9’s signature “jumping” and “dancing” functions, while thrilling, have led to fines for some drivers using them on public roads, where such actions are apparently illegal.
BYD’s commitment to advanced EV technology is further evident in its broader strategy, recently announcing its intention to expand 240 kW motors into more affordable mid-range EVs, starting from 14,150 USD. This move reflects a broader trend in the Chinese market, where Chinese automakers are rapidly advancing EV technology and pushing boundaries.
The Yangwang U9 truly embodies a new era of performance and technological innovation in the supercar segment, and its initial sales success signals a strong future for high-end Chinese EVs.
