New electric SUV Nio EL6: Nio’s strategy may work

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Nio has researched the global automobile market well: the Chinese automaker therefore relies on modern design and scalable technology. With three models already offered for Europe (the ET7 and ET5 sedans and the luxury SUV EL7), premium brand Nio is heading for a confrontational course with established German luxury manufacturers Audi, BMW and Mercedes, as well as Tesla and Polestar. The strategy might work.

For example, there is the issue of battery replacement. Apparently doomed to die because no other automaker in Europe has followed suit, Nio still plans to launch “swap stations” in Germany as well. Even if their numbers remain manageable at seven for now.

Europe and fast charging

That’s probably why Nio is giving the fourth model for Europe, the EL6, a boost in terms of charging speed. The Nio EL6 charges at up to 180 kW at the fast charging station, instead of the previous 140 kilowatts; Although this is not the best value, it is a noticeable improvement. The family SUV charges from 10 percent to 80 percent in 30 minutes.

The standard consumption of the electric SUV, which weighs over 2.2 tons, varies between 20.4 and 22.1 kWh/100 km. It has a range of approximately 400 kilometers with a small 75 kWh battery pack, while it has a range of almost 530 kilometers with a larger 100 kWh battery.

Two electric motors and 4×4

Nio EL6 shares platform and engines with its younger sibling ET5. A 204 hp (150 kW) induction motor operates at the front, while a more powerful 286 hp (210 kW) permanent magnet motor provides most of the propulsion at the rear axle. This results in an impressive system output of 490 hp (360 kW) and 700 Nm. This is enough to sprint to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 200 km/h.

The all-wheel drive system’s steering is light and precise but lacks the necessary feedback. This also applies to the associated restoring forces, which will make driving even more enjoyable. Specially controlled shock absorbers on the front axle ensure that the new-for-Europe EL6 leans much less forward during strong braking maneuvers than its predecessor, which has been on the market for a long time in China.

Practical for daily life

But you don’t have to race the 4.85 meter long Nio EL6 to feel the joy. The e-crossover scores particularly well in everyday life: good space in the front and rear, seat air conditioning, electrically adjustable rear seat and cargo area volume between 668 and 1430 liters. Matrix headlights, head-up display and electronic damper adjustment are also standard. You can sit comfortably in the front and back, even on long journeys. The comfort seats can also be positioned in a reclining position, similar to the Kia EV9; It is practical for relaxing, for example, while charging from the fast charger in the vehicle.

In Switzerland from 2025

Nice: You can finally tell “Nomi”, the round assistant sitting on the dashboard, to shut up if you don’t like it. Then a quick glance at the navigation system won’t be an annoying but well-intentioned recommendation to keep your eyes on the road.

Chinese brand Nio is not yet available here. However, Nio wants to be represented in 25 European markets, including Switzerland, by 2025. The fully equipped Nio EL6 starts in Germany with a small battery in the basic version and battery rental from 53,500 euros (169 or 289 euros per month). If you buy the battery right away, you will have to pay another 12,000 or 21,000 euros for a 100 kWh battery. The person renting the battery pays 169 or 289 euros per month.

Source: Blick