A Yangwang U9 Xtreme crashed during a closed-track attempt to approach 500 km/h, with video and photos of the wreck circulating in China on November 2. The car reportedly veered off course and hit a barrier, tearing away its entire rear axle. Despite extensive damage, the driver got out unaided and was not injured. The report values the vehicle at US$3 million.
The crash has drawn attention to the U9’s safety structure. Its central cabin monocoque is made from aerospace-grade T700 12K carbon fiber, and the roof is said to withstand more than 11 tonnes of lateral compression. The battery is integrated into the chassis as a structural component, intended to strengthen the car in side impacts as well as help weight distribution.
The Xtreme is the latest development of Yangwang’s U9, first shown at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show. It has four electric motors producing a combined 3,000 hp and a 1,200-volt electrical architecture. At 2,480 kg, the car has a reported weight-to-power figure of 0.82 kg per horsepower. The brand plans to continue pursuing 500 km/h, with its next attempt scheduled for the United Arab Emirates.