Skip advert
Advertisement

New Nio sub-brand to focus on affordable electric cars

Chinese EV brand Nio is set to launch a new sub-brand dedicated to affordable cars, and it’s planning to enter the UK market

Nio ES6 on static show stand - front

Chinese EV start-up Nio has revealed plans for cheaper models under a new sub-brand. Codenamed Firefly, the as yet unnamed sub-brand will produce a range of cars expected to rival the likes of Tesla’s big-selling Model Y and Model 3.

Speaking exclusively to Auto Express, Nio’s vice president for Europe and managing director Hui Zhang said: “We haven’t decided on the name yet, but it will sit under the Nio parent in the same way Volkswagen has the brand and the parent group.”

That means the existing Nio line-up - boosted by the reveal of a new ES6 model (called EL6 in Europe) and a revised version of its ET7 flagship saloon at the Shanghai Auto Show - will carry on as a more premium brand offering, under parent company Nio.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Zhang also revealed that plans are underway for Nio’s entry into the UK, with former Volvo and Mercedes man Matt Galvin installed as UK managing director. “We are some way off - there is lots of work to be done,” said Zhang, “But we are looking for the right time and to build our infrastructure.”

That means Nio will be building its own Power Swap Stations in the UK - these will have the ability to swap a depleted battery with a fully-charged one in under five minutes - as well as a network of fast-chargers, with the latest 500kW units also being shown in Shanghai. 

Nio ET7 on static show stand

With planning and other logistical work needing to be completed, plus physically building the Power Swap Stations, we wouldn’t expect Nio to be launching in the UK before 2025.

When it does arrive, cars like the EL6 will be core to the brand’s offering. The latest model features Nio’s second generation design language “"Design for AD", while it also moves onto the new NT2.0 platform, shared with the ET7. That means either 75kWh or 100kWh batteries will be available with an expected maximum range of 400 miles.

Meanwhile the ET7 features 15 product upgrades which include a new seat design, an updated infotainment system, upgraded interior trim, faster wireless smartphone charging, and new interior and exterior colours.

Looking for a zero-emission bargain? These are the cheapest electric cars on sale...

Skip advert
Advertisement

Steve Fowler has previously edited Auto Express, Carbuyer, DrivingElectric, What Car?, Autocar and What Hi-Fi? and has been writing about cars for the best part of 30 years. 

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

MG Cyber X could go on sale within two years as spiritual successor to Suzuki Jimny
MG Cyber X - front 3/4 Goodwood

MG Cyber X could go on sale within two years as spiritual successor to Suzuki Jimny

The chunky SUV could bring people to the brand who would otherwise never buy an MG, according to the UK planning boss
News
10 Jul 2025
Down with smart tech! ‘Shy tech’ is the way to go, according to Nio
Nio EL7 - cabin

Down with smart tech! ‘Shy tech’ is the way to go, according to Nio

Higher-end buyers will be looking for more subtlety in their tech, while AI has to earn drivers’ trust
News
14 May 2025
New Firefly EV 2025 review: Nio city car has a small price and huge potential
Nio Firefly EV - front tracking

New Firefly EV 2025 review: Nio city car has a small price and huge potential

The Firefly EV is one of the more unique electric cars to come from China, and it could have what it takes to conquer the European city car market
Road tests
8 May 2025
Chinese cars can’t match their European rivals when it comes to engineering
Opinion - Shanghai Auto Show

Chinese cars can’t match their European rivals when it comes to engineering

This new brand of cars might have battery tech on their side, but European buyers want much more than that
Opinion
25 Apr 2025

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month
Volkswagen Golf GTI - front cornering left 1

Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month

The Golf GTI has been a classic from day one – and it’s our Deal of the Day for 8 July.
News
8 Jul 2025