In over a decade, the automotive world has witnessed Chinese manufacturers produce the best electric supercars. These high-performance vehicles challenge traditional notions of what a supercar can be and push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology.
According to a Counterpoint Research analysis, Chinese electric car manufacturer BYD is anticipated to surpass Tesla in battery electric vehicle sales this year, as its market share in BEVs is predicted to rise even further.
In this article, we will showcase four of the most flashy and luxurious Chinese-made supercars in the world that are making a buzz.
How the Chinese Supercars Market Has Grown
When we think of supercars, iconic names like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren often come to mind. These legendary brands have long dominated the world of high-performance vehicles, setting the standard for speed, luxury, and engineering excellence.
China is now making its footprints seen in the EV manufacturing scene, having more than mimicked what the pioneers of the supercar industry have done. In 2011, Chinese-based manufacturers created new hybrid Chinese Supercar brands like the Tong Jian S11. The car looks ravishing and will please you optimally with its intense performance.
Counterpoint predicts that Chinese BEV sales will surpass the combined sales of North America and Europe in 2030.
Chinese Electric Supercars to Watch Out For in 2024
1. NIO EP9
The NIO EP9 is a groundbreaking electric supercar that has taken the automotive world by storm. Here are its key specifications and achievements:
- Power: 1,341 horsepower
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 2.7 seconds
- Top Speed: 195 mph
- Range: 265 miles
- Price: $1.48 million
The EP9 has set numerous records, including the fastest lap for an electric car at the Nürburgring Nordschleife with a time of 6 minutes and 45.9 seconds. Its advanced aerodynamics and four high-performance inboard motors give it unparalleled performance.
While it outperforms many traditional supercars in acceleration, it faces competition from cars like Rimac Nevera in terms of overall electric supercar supremacy.
2. Hongqi S9
The Hongqi S9, China’s ultimate and elegant sedan, blends electric and combustion power to create a luxurious user experience. It has the following specs:
- Power: 1,400 horsepower (combined)
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 1.9 seconds
- Top Speed: 250 mph
- Range: 35 miles (electric only)
- Price: $1.45 million
Developed in collaboration with Italian design house Italdesign, the S9 showcases China’s ambition to compete at the highest levels of automotive performance. Will’s UAE version is a bit expensive, but its hybrid powertrain allows for impressive performance while addressing range anxiety.
Available with two engine options, it offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 248 horsepower, and a robust 3.0-liter supercharged V6 with 279 horsepower. The latter model features advanced air suspension that makes bumps in the road nearly imperceptible.
The S9’s main competitor is the Koenigsegg Gemera, another hybrid hypercar with similar performance figures.
3. Yangwang U9
The Yangwang U9, a product of BYD’s luxury brand, is a stylish supersport coupe that appears to combine design cues from Koenigsegg, McLaren, and Lamborghini, according to Forbes. The car has the following specifications:
- Power: 1,288 horsepower (from four electric motors)
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 2 seconds
- Top Speed: 192 mph (estimated)
- Range: Over 400 miles (estimated)
- Price: Approximately $145,000 – $220,000 (depending on configuration)
The U9 showcases BYD’s cutting-edge “e-platform 3.0” technology, featuring advanced cell-to-body integration for improved performance and efficiency. Its high tech quad-motor setup allows precise torque vectoring, enhancing handling and stability.
In addition, the U9 also boasts an innovative “DiSus-P” hydraulic body control system, which can lift individual wheels for improved cornering and even allows the car to “leap” over obstacles.
One of the U9’s most distinctive features is its ability to “crab walk” sideways and rotate 360 degrees on the spot, thanks to its advanced four-wheel steering system. This enhances maneuverability and adds a unique party trick to its repertoire.
The Yangwang U9 goes head-to-head with established electric supercars like the Pininfarina Battista.
4. GAC Aion Hyper SSR
The GAC Aion Hyper SSR is pushing the envelope of what’s possible in electric vehicle acceleration:
- Power: 1,225 horsepower
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 1.9 seconds
- Top Speed: 170 mph
- Range: 310 miles
- Price: $240,000
With its claimed sub-2-second 0-60 mph time, the Hyper SSR is vying for the world’s quickest production car title. It has a unique “super-fusion” body structure featuring innovative electric “butterfly wing” doors.
The electric vehicle boasts a striking carbon fiber body featuring an exaggerated aerodynamic front design, highlighted by narrow headlights and the unique “Arrow of Love” logo.
Despite its electric powertrain, the SSR incorporates mesh openings on the front cover, enhancing its aggressive visual appeal. Equipped with Michelin PS4S high-performance tires and large six-piston brake calipers, the SSR showcases superior handling and braking performance.
