In a groundbreaking achievement for the automotive industry, BYD’s YANGWANG U9 Xtreme electric hypercar has set a new world speed record, reaching an astonishing 503.17 kilometers per hour on November 1. The record was established on Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Road (E11) in the Al Dhafra Region of Abu Dhabi, showcasing the emirate’s advanced infrastructure and commitment to hosting high-profile automotive events.
The record-breaking run was executed by professional racing driver Marc Basseng, who navigated a specially secured section of the highway. This event was made possible through the collaboration of several key entities, including the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), which coordinated efforts to ensure safety and operational readiness.
Collaboration and Infrastructure
Mohamed Ali Al Kamali, Chief of Trade and Industry at ADIO, expressed pride in Abu Dhabi’s role in this historic moment, stating, “BYD chose Abu Dhabi to make automotive history, and we are proud to have played a part in making it possible.” This achievement not only highlights the capabilities of BYD as a global industry leader but also underscores Abu Dhabi’s potential as a hub for innovative automotive technology.
Eng. Hamad Adel Al Afeefi, Executive Director of the Intelligent Transportation Systems Sector at Abu Dhabi Mobility, emphasized the successful operation as a demonstration of Abu Dhabi’s transport infrastructure capabilities. He noted that the emirate can support specialized international initiatives while maintaining high safety standards.
Strategic Importance for Automotive Industry
This milestone further cements Abu Dhabi’s growing engagement with international automotive manufacturers, particularly those from China. The emirate offers a strategic location, robust global connectivity, and established logistics infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for automotive companies looking to access regional and international markets.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve with advancements in electric vehicle technology, Abu Dhabi’s ability to host such ambitious demonstrations positions it as a key player in the global automotive landscape. The successful record attempt not only showcases the capabilities of the YANGWANG U9 Xtreme but also highlights the emirate’s readiness to embrace cutting-edge technology and innovation.
For more details on this record-setting event, visit ARN News Centre.
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