Nio launches luxury ES9 electric SUV in China and Europe

Chinese EV maker Nio has begun sales of its flagship ES9 electric SUV, described as the brand's largest and most luxurious model. The ES9 measures 5.37 m in length with a 3.25 m wheelbase, produces up to 697 hp from a dual‑motor 900 V system, and can accelerate to 100 km/h in about 4.3 seconds. It is equipped with a 102 kWh battery offering a claimed range of 580–620 km, and features an automated battery‑swap system that completes the exchange in roughly three minutes, comparable to refuelling a conventional car. Nio also promotes a Battery‑as‑a‑Service (BaaS) subscription model, letting customers buy the vehicle without a battery and pay a monthly fee for battery usage.

Pricing in China starts at roughly 390,000 yuan (about €49,500) for the battery‑free version and €63,000 for the version with a battery. The company hopes to expand the ES9 into European markets, where the price would likely be closer to €500,000. The launch follows Nio's rapid portfolio expansion from a niche brand to a global player in the premium electric‑vehicle segment.