Nio Launches Electric SUV in China

Shanghai-based Nio Ltd.has launched its all-electric ES8 crossover/SUV in China.

The new model starts at 448,000 yuan ($68,000), which makes it just over half the Chinese price for a Tesla Model X electric crossover. The ES8 also is eligible for incentives not available on the imported Model X.

The ES8’s twin electric motors generate a combined 644 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque, and can propel the vehicle from zero to 100 kph (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds. Nio says the vehicle’s 70-kWh battery pack provides a 220-mile range, based on the European driving cycle.

Battery upgrades also are available, and owners can subscribe to a roadside service plan that brings charging equipment to a vehicle’s location. A 10-minute charge could provide 60 miles of range, according to the company.

Nio also is launching a battery-swapping network, with a goal of having 1,100 stations operating in China by 2020. The company says battery packs can be swapped in about three minutes.

The ES8’s lightweight design features an aluminum body and chassis. Built on a 119-inch wheelbase, the vehicle has three rows of seats with room for seven occupants.

Safety features include adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and blind-spot monitors. The vehicles five cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors and five radar systems are managed by Mobileye’s EyeQ4 chip.

Nio also is launching its cloud-based digital assistant—called NOMI—in the ES8. The system uses artificial intelligence to interact with occupants. Other goodies include a head-up display, wireless charging for smartphones, Brembo brakes and an active air suspension.