Chinese Automaker NIO plans to sell electric vehicles in Europe from 2022: First stop Norway
NIO announces expansion into Norway with ES8 SUV
In a smooth Silicon Valley-esque online launch, Chinese premium electric vehicle manufacturer NIO has announced that it is rolling out the brand to European customers, starting with Norway. From 2022, Norwegian customers will have access to NIO’s high-speed Supercharger network, the NIO Power Swap technology and NIO House incorporating the brand experience with servicing facilities.
The flagship ES8 SUV will be the first vehicle available to Norwegian customers, with deliveries commencing in September this year. Offering a WLTP range of 500km from its 100 kWh battery, the full-size SUV sports dual motors, with 405 kW (540 PS) and 725 Nm (535 lb ft). Orders open for the ES8 in July 2021.
A concept rendering of NIO’s planned European service centers. Image: NIO
NIO’s ET7 sedan. Image: NIO
NIO House and Battery Charging
NIO has commenced construction on its ‘NIO House’, dubbed the meeting place for NIO users. NIO has already hired its core team of local experts, and the 2000 square metre NIO House in the centre of Oslo is designed as a brand showcase and service centre. NIO plans four additional facilities in 2022, in Bergen, Stavanger, Trondheim and Kristansand.
In addition, NIO intends to bring its Power Swap technology to Europe, which enables vehicle batteries to be exchanged at automated facilities within three minutes. The company claims four battery swap stations will be operational before the close of 2021. It’s unclear if NIO will introduce its Battery as a Service plan to European customers; currently, owners in China are able to pay a reduced upfront cost for their vehicle, but leasing the battery as a separate package.
NIO will also be rolling out its own Supercharger network at busy sites along popular routes, and will bring an AC home charging solution to market for European customers in 2022.
2022 will bring the NIO to five additional European markets, and will also see the launch of the ET7 sedan later in the year.
Watch the replay of the press conference below.