NIO, the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced plans to expand into Europe with the launch of three new models based on its NT2 platform. The innovative battery swapping technology of the NT2 platform, together with NIO's plan to build a network of Power Swap Stations in Europe, positions the company as a strong competitor in the electric vehicle market and an attractive option for consumers looking for an electric vehicle that can reduce the inconvenience of charging.
NIO, the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced plans to expand into Europe with the launch of three new models in Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden. Models based on the NIO NT2 platform include a high-performance flagship sedan ET7, a mid-sized smart electric ES7 SUV (EL7 - Europe) and mid-size smart electric sedan ET5.
ET7 is already available for order and deliveries are expected to begin October 16. Pre-orders are also open for the EL7 and ET5, with deliveries expected to begin in January and March 2023, respectively.
One of the key features of the NIO NT2 platform is its innovative battery replacement technology, which allows drivers to quickly replace the battery and continue driving without having to wait for it to charge. To support this, NIO plans to build the network by the end of 2022 20 stations for electricity substitution (PSS) in its new European markets, aiming to have 1,000 PSS outside of China by 2025, mostly in Europe.
The Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer has announced that it is now offering rental and purchase options for its electric models in Europe. This applies to the Nio ET5, ET7 and EL7 models in Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden. All models can be purchased with a battery, or you can just rent the latter. Similar to the manufacturer Renault and the ZOE model.
ET5, NIO's mid-size smart electric sedan, starts at 49,900 euros for the option to purchase, battery not included. The ET7 high-performance parade sedan starts at 69,900 euros, and the Nio EL7, the company's only electric SUV, starts at €73,900, again without the battery.
For consumers who prefer to rent a battery, the rental cost for a 75 kWh battery in Germany is €169 per month, while a 100 kWh battery is available for €289 per month. Those who would rather buy a power saver can shell out 12,000 euros for a 75 kWh battery or 21,000 euros for a 100 kWh battery. This means a total of 61,900 euros for the ET5 with a purchased 75 kWh battery and 90,900 euros for the ET7 with a purchased 100 kWh battery.
NIO's new battery rental and purchase options make it more accessible for consumers to experience the company's innovative technology and performance, while offering flexibility and cost savings for those who prefer to rent a battery.
In addition to the expansion of the product range and charging infrastructure in Europe is NIO also announced plans to increase its research and development capacity in the region. The company recently opened an 'Innovation Center' in Berlin and has factories in Hungary and growing teams of engineers at its R&D and design facilities in Oxford and Munich.
NIO is also an important player in Formula E Racing, with NIO 333 Racing and team principal Alex Hui unveiling their brand new ER9, which was recently tested in Italy and the UK in the hands of fresh signing Sergio Sette Camaro.
With this move, NIO positions itself as a strong competitor in the European electric vehicle market, as it offers consumers not only innovative technology, but also a comprehensive charging infrastructure and commitment to research and development.
This expansion into Europe comes at a time when demand for electric vehicles is growing. The company's battery swapping technology and its plan to build a network of Power Swap stations in Europe are important differentiators in the market and are likely to attract the attention of consumers looking for an electric vehicle that can minimize the inconvenience of charging.
Company commitment NIO to research and development and its involvement in Formula E racing also demonstrate the company's focus on innovation and its commitment to being at the forefront of the electric vehicle industry.
With the introduction of these three new models and the expansion of its charging infrastructure and R&D efforts in Europe, NIO is positioning itself as a major player in the electric vehicle market and is poised to make a significant impact on the European automotive landscape.