China’s Largest Electric SUV Is Not Made for Drivers

ES9 is China’s longest electric SUV with a 127.9-inch wheelbase. Dual electric motors deliver 697 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque total. It supports three-minute battery swaps across Nio’s network.

Luxury for Those Who Are Chauffered

For the wealthiest car buyers in China, the pleasure of driving often takes a back seat. Luxury is measured not only by power but also by legroom, comfort, and the ability to relax while someone else navigates the road conditions.

With this in mind, Nio is preparing a new electric SUV designed precisely for such an audience, as well as for large families. Newly released photos present the Nio ES9, which will expand the brand’s lineup, positioning itself slightly above the ES8.

Large Dimensions and Power

This future flagship will become the largest electric SUV on the Chinese market, surpassing the ES8 in this regard. According to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, its length is 5,365 mm, width is 2,029 mm, and height is 1,870 mm.

This makes it 85 mm longer, 29 mm wider, and 70 mm taller than the ES8. More importantly, the wheelbase is increased to 3,250 mm, which is 120 mm more than the ES8, providing significantly more space for passengers.

For comparison, its dimensions fall between the standard Cadillac Escalade and the extended Escalade ESV version.

Design and Exterior

Visually, the ES9’s design is very similar to the smaller model, although it has a more straight-lined and square front end. The front features split daytime running lights and headlights, a large radiator grille, and a black insert along the lower part of the bumper. Like the ES8, a lidar protrudes from the roof.

The rear is executed in a minimalist spirit with a single LED light strip. Other photos of the SUV show that retractable side steps and at least six different wheel designs will be available. Buyers will also be able to choose black or silver accents along the body.

Powerful Powertrain

Nio ES9 front view

It is not yet known what the interior of the ES9 will look like, but there are important details about the powertrain. The SUV will be powered by a 241 hp electric motor on the front axle and a 456 hp motor on the rear axle. The total power will be 697 hp, and torque will be 516 lb-ft. The battery pack will be supplied by CATL, with an expected capacity of 102 kWh.

There is no information on the charging speed of this battery, but within the Nio network, charging time is not critically important. The brand has a large network of fast battery swap stations, where a depleted pack can be replaced with a fully charged one in just 3 minutes.

Expectations and Prospects

A full presentation is expected in the coming months, with a domestic market launch to follow shortly thereafter. Availability in markets outside China has not been confirmed yet.

Nio ES9 rear view

The emergence of a car like the Nio ES9 clearly reflects the dynamics of the Chinese electric vehicle market, where the focus is increasingly shifting towards luxury, space, and technological solutions for comfort, not just dynamic performance. The possibility of fast battery swapping remains a key competitive advantage for Nio, which could determine the model’s success among its target audience, which values time and convenience. The dimensions and technical equipment of the ES9 place it among the largest and most powerful representatives of its class in the world, demonstrating the ambitions of Chinese manufacturers on the global stage.

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