The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with groundbreaking technologies, and BYD is leading the charge with some genuinely unique innovations. After introducing the Yangwang U8, an SUV that can float on water, BYD has now taken innovation to new heights—literally—with the Yangwang U9.

This electric hypercar, sold under BYD’s premium Yangwang brand in China, has captured attention for its ability to jump over obstacles. While it may sound like a gimmick, BYD’s latest marketing video highlights the advanced technology behind this extraordinary feature.

How Does It Work? 

The U9’s jumping ability comes from its DiSus-X intelligent suspension system to achieve a vertical jump of approximately 6 inches (15 cm) and adjusts the car’s suspension dynamically in milliseconds. The entire motion, from compression to landing, lasts only a few seconds, showcasing the rapid response of its DiSus-X intelligent suspension system.

While the car isn’t designed for prolonged airborne performance, its ability to briefly elevate demonstrates the precision and power of the technology, primarily aimed at clearing obstacles or showcasing its versatility.

This technology allows the car to jump and perform other advanced maneuvers, such as independently raising or lowering the ground clearance at each corney.

This precision technology is essential for managing the car’s quad-motor setup, which delivers a combined power of 960 kW. The U9 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.36 seconds and completes a quarter-mile in under 10 seconds. While the jumping feature might not seem practical for daily use, it could be helpful for clearing speed bumps and potholes or even driving on three wheels in emergencies.

 

Jumping Over Obstacles with Ease

In the recently released video, the Yangwang U9 shows off its ability to tackle an obstacle course—entirely autonomously, without a driver. Using its DiSus-X intelligent suspension system and advanced sensors, the U9 navigates hurdles with remarkable precision:

  • A 2.5-meter-long water-filled pothole: The car smoothly leaps over this obstacle with its front and rear suspensions working in perfect sync.
  • Tire-popping spikes (3.5 cm high): The U9 jumps effortlessly without losing any momentum.
  • A 4-meter-long dust patch: It clears the obstacle, leaving behind a striking rainbow-colored dust cloud.

This demonstration shows how the U9 compresses and extends its suspension to jump over obstacles, ensuring a smooth landing while maintaining stability even at high speeds.

Performance on the Track

Despite its cutting-edge suspension, the Yangwang U9 hasn’t broken any lap records. At the Nürburgring, it achieved a lap time of 7:17.9, which is impressive but still behind competitors like the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra (6:46.87) and Rimac Nevera (7:00.03). However, the unique technology makes it stand out in other areas, offering versatility and innovation that traditional hypercars lack.

A New Era for Hypercars?

The Yangwang ability to jump may seem like a fun trick, but it highlights BBYD’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology. At an estimated price of $184,000 in the UK, $233,000 in the US, or €216,000 in Europe, it’s certainly not cheap. However, it offers incredible value compared to its high-priced rivals:

  • Rimac Nevera: Priced at $2 million, it offers similar performance but costs nearly ten times more than the U9.
  • Pininfarina Battista: Over $3 million, it lacks the U9’s range, charging speed, and innovative suspension.
  • Tesla Roadster: At around $200,000, it’s a close competitor in price but misses unique features like the U9’s jumping suspension.

Conclusion

The BYD Yangwang U9 is more than just a car—it’s a glimpse into the future of hypercars. Whether it’s the mind-blowing jumping feature, blazing speed, or cutting-edge suspension technology, the U9 is redefining what electric hypercars can do. While it competes with some of the most expensive and exclusive hypercars, it delivers similar performance and innovation at a fraction of the cost.

What do you think? Is the BYD Yangwang U9 a game-changer or just a flashy showpiece? Let us know your thoughts!