Abu Dhabi:The city has marked a significant achievement in global automotive history with the YANGWANG U9 Xtreme electric hypercar setting a new world speed record. The record was set by Chinese automotive manufacturer BYD, which saw the car surpass 500 kilometers per hour on Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Road (E11) in the Al Dhafra Region.
According to Wam, the record-breaking event took place on November 1, 2026, with professional racing driver Marc Basseng reaching a speed of 503.17 kilometers per hour on a specially secured section of the highway. The event was supported by Abu Dhabi's road infrastructure and involved the coordination of various entities to ensure the route was prepared and secured for the high-speed attempt.
The initiative was a collaborative effort involving the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), and other government authorities. These entities worked together on investment facilitation, destination development, transport infrastructure, and operational planning to create the conditions necessary for the successful record attempt.
Mohamed Ali Al Kamali, Chief of Trade and Industry at ADIO, highlighted the significance of BYD's choice of Abu Dhabi for this historic feat, emphasizing the city's infrastructure and coordinated support. He noted that the achievement is part of Abu Dhabi's broader engagement with leading Chinese automotive companies, aiming to connect industry leaders with the emirate's strategic location and investment potential.
Eng Hamad Adel Al Afeefi, Executive Director of Intelligent Transportation Systems Sector at the Integrated Transport Centre, praised the technical planning, traffic management, and coordination that facilitated the speed record. He emphasized that the operation showcased Abu Dhabi's transport infrastructure capabilities and its ability to support specialized international initiatives while maintaining high safety standards.
The milestone enhances Abu Dhabi's reputation as a hub for international automotive manufacturers, particularly those from China. With its strategic location, global connectivity, and established logistics, Abu Dhabi provides a platform for automotive companies to explore investment opportunities and expand their global presence.