The NIO startup continues to advance its roadmap to become a manufacturer of electric cars with a presence around the world. The Chinese firm, which recently landed on the European market, currently has six models on its offer: three first-generation (ES6, EC6, ES8) and three second-generation (ET5, ET7, EL7).
It is interesting to note that although NIO is a premium brand, it does not close its doors on the mass market. And it is that its president, Lihong Qin, recently confirmed that the company will also launch a generalist firm, which will be especially focused on the markets of southern Europe. “It’s better to start with France, Italy, and Spain because of the different market penetration structures.”
In parallel, NIO also wants to compete in the luxury categories. According to a recent report echoed by the local press, the company is already working on a sumptuous electric car that will have the task of standing up to proposals from illustrious rivals such as Bentley, Hongqi, Mercedes-Maybach, and Rolls- Royce.
The project is already in the design phase and will lead to a representation saloon (segment F) with a starting price of about 135,000 euros to change. This model will not be sold under a new brand but will display the NIO logo on its front, which will help consolidate its image within the competitive premium sector.
NIO will also have a brand of affordable electric cars
Its launch will take place in 2024 and it will be sold all over the planet. As NIO’s flagship, it is highly probable that it will debut numerous technical innovations, from an advanced semi-autonomous driving system to mechanical improvements that allow it to offer unparalleled performance and range.
It may also use WeLion’s new semi-solid batteries, which have recently gone into production. At the moment, WeLion cells are used in 150 kWh capacity packs, which are only available in NIO models based on the NT 2.0 platform; that is, the ET5 and ET7 sedans and the EL7 SUV.
Given that the new luxury sedan will predictably be larger and heavier than its siblings, it is most likely that its batteries will go beyond the 150 kWh used so far by the brand, far exceeding the CLTC 1,000 km of range.
