NIO introduced the ES9, its flagship executive SUV and the largest battery electric vehicle manufactured in China. Stretching over 5.3 meters in length with three rows of seating, the ES9 delivers a robust 520 kW output and offers an official range of up to 620 kilometers under the CLTC test cycle, equivalent to about 385 miles. Deliveries are scheduled to begin promptly following its launch.

The company priced the ES9 more aggressively than initially indicated during its pre-sale phase, reducing costs across all trims by RMB 30,000 (around $4,100). This move aims to enhance competitiveness in China’s saturated electric SUV market. Buyers can choose between purchasing the vehicle with the battery included or leasing the battery through NIO’s Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program, which lowers the entry price substantially.

The base Executive Premium Edition starts at RMB 498,000 (approximately $69,000) but drops to RMB 390,000 (about $54,000) under the BaaS scheme. The mid-tier Executive Signature Edition begins at RMB 558,000 (~$77,000) or RMB 450,000 (~$62,000) with BaaS. The top-tier Horizon Edition is priced at RMB 628,000 (~$87,000), reducible to RMB 520,000 (~$72,000) through battery leasing. This pricing strategy situates the ES9 directly against premium models from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, whose electric SUVs usually start above $80,000.

NIO’s ES9 leverages a new 900V high-voltage architecture allowing ultra-fast 5C charging and fits into NIO’s unique ecosystem of battery swapping stations, which the company plans to expand with over 1,000 new installations in the current year. The fifth-generation swap stations are expected to roll out widely by the third quarter of 2026, enhancing convenience and reducing downtime for owners.

Performance figures are notable: a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain generates 520 kW (697 hp) and 700 Nm of torque, accelerating the ES9 from zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. The SUV uses a 102 kWh battery pack supplied by CATL, supporting the stated maximum range, although expected real-world mileage will be lower.

The ES9 features more than 40 industry-first technologies. Its advanced systems include a 5 nm NX9031 automotive-grade smart chip for driving assistance, a fully active 48V hydraulic suspension, and steer-by-wire with rear-wheel steering that achieves a tight 5.4-meter turning radius for a vehicle of its size. An immersive 47-speaker LYRA sound system delivers 3,020 watts, underscoring the model’s luxury emphasis.

On the autonomous and safety front, the ES9 integrates 31 sensing units and NIO’s WorldModel-enabled Navigate on Pilot Plus (NOP+), now capable of managing complex traffic configurations like tidal and reversible lanes—systems that adjust lane direction to optimize flow during peak hours.

The ES9’s dimensions make it the largest electric SUV produced in China. It measures 5,365 mm in length with a wheelbase of 3,250 mm, surpassing even some large international competitors in cabin space and vehicle length. The spacious interior boasts a 2,805 mm cabin length, offering comfort and versatility for passengers.