Yangwang U9: China's Super Car is a Good First Effort

Design: Where Aerodynamics Meets ArtistryU9 presents a striking balance between form and function with its 4,965mm length and 2,900mm wheelbase. The body incorporates active aerodynamics including a deployable rear spoiler and adaptive underbody diffuser that automatically adjusts between stability and cooling configurations. Despite its supercar proportions, the U9 maintains practical elements like its innovative multi-hinge dihedral doors that function in tight spaces while preserving structural integrity through advanced carbon fiber construction.

Interior: Super Car Outside, Hyundai Inside

When you make a super car that undercuts the competition by tens of thousands of dollars, something has to give, and it seems clear that the U9 isn’t going to provide the same level of material quality you’d find in a much more expensive Ferrari. Real carbon fiber mixes with plenty of plastic, but the experience is elevated by the combination of a well-designed center screen and small knob with LED display. The question that remains is, will the U9 be able to pull a Corvette and offer a driving experience that makes up for the plasticky interior?

Quad Power: Big Power, but Big Weight

At the core of the U9's performance lies a sophisticated quad-motor powertrain delivering 960 kW (1,287hp) and 1680 Nm of torque (1245 lbs.-ft) through four independent permanent magnet synchronous motors. The 800V electrical architecture supports 500kW peak charging capability, allowing it to charge its 80-kWh LFP blade battery pack from 30-80% 10 minutes. The official CLTC range is a claimed 450 km.

The U9's quad motor system enables it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 2.36 seconds, a mighty quick time, but one that still puts it behind the Tesla Model S Plaid and Xiaomi SU7 Ultra. One reason for that is certainly weight. Despite its carbon fiber construction, the U9's curb weight of 2,475 kg makes it 110kg heavier than the Xiaomi and almost 300kg heavier than the Tesla.

DISUS-X: A Jumping Super Car

One reason for that weight is the Yangwang's less power dense LFP battery chemistry, but another is its ridiculous suspension tech. DISUS-X is a fully active setup uses predictive algorithms analyzing multiple vehicle parameters in real-time with 40ms response times. During track testing, the system demonstrated exceptional body control while maintaining ride compliance - a notable accomplishment given the vehicle's substantial mass. The hydraulic interconnected damping system works in concert with the adaptive aerodynamics to deliver stable high-speed performance.

Driving Dynamics: Weight Doesn't Ruin the Fun

The driving experience reveals careful calibration of all dynamic systems. The speed-sensitive steering provides both precision at limit and low-speed maneuverability. The braking system combines regenerative and friction components, with 420mm carbon ceramic front rotors (380mm rear) delivering consistent stopping power. While the weight is noticeable during hard braking and direction changes, the advanced torque vectoring and suspension systems work effectively to mitigate its impact on handling.

Conclusion:

The Yangwang U9 establishes China as a serious contender in high-performance electric vehicles. By combining extraordinary capability with technical innovation and practical elements, it redefines expectations for electric supercars. While the weight represents an inherent challenge of current EV technology, the U9's suspension does a convincing job of hiding it.

Specifications: Yangwang U9

Motors: Quad-motor (one per wheel)

Power: 960 kW (1,287 hp)

Torque: 1,680 Nm (1,239 lb-ft)

Battery: 80-kWh LFP

Range: 450 km (CLTC)

0-100 km/h: 2.36 seconds

Top Speed: 300 km/h (electronically limited)

Weight: 2,475 kg

Dimensions: 4,966 * 2029 * 1,311 mm

Wheelbase: 2,900 mm

Price: 1,680,000 RMB (~235,000 USD)