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How to read a production-car speed record.

Single-direction speed, two-way averages and why the category matters as much as the headline number.

Updated · Yangwang Insider

Yangwang U9 Xtreme during its record-setting speed run
Photography · BYD media

Begin with the category

A peak speed recorded in one direction and an average measured over runs in opposing directions answer different questions. Always state which method was used before ranking results.

Put the evidence beside the number

For the U9 Xtreme’s Abu Dhabi achievement, the FIA identifies the date, road, driver and single-direction Guinness categories. These details make a discussion more useful than an unqualified claim about every possible kind of speed record.

A practical checklist

Look for the exact model, vehicle configuration, measuring method, location and recognising organisation. Keep a source link and the report’s date. If another car uses a different method, explain that distinction alongside the comparison. The phrase “world’s fastest” becomes clearer when its scope is stated.

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