China's largest electric SUV, the Nio ES9, is designed for comfort and luxury rather than driving thrills. With a massive 697 hp and a 127.9-inch wheelbase, it's a flagship model for China's wealthiest car buyers and larger families. The ES9 is set to become the largest electric SUV in China, surpassing the ES8 in size and features.
Measuring 5,365 mm in length, 2,029 mm in width, and 1,870 mm in height, the ES9 is 85 mm longer, 29 mm wider, and 70 mm taller than the ES8. Its wheelbase stretches to 3,250 mm, offering more room for passengers and a footprint similar to the extended-wheelbase Cadillac Escalade ESV.
The ES9's design is visually similar to the ES8, with a more upright and squared front fascia, split DRLs and headlights, a large grille, and a black ribbon along the bottom of the bumper. It also features a LiDAR protruding from the roof. The rear design is simple, with a single LED light bar, and retractable side steps and various wheel designs/finishes are available.
Powering the ES9 is a dual-motor drive system with a 241 hp electric motor at the front axle and a 456 hp motor at the rear axle, delivering a combined 697 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. The battery pack, sourced from CATL, has a 102 kWh capacity, and while charging speeds are unknown, Nio's battery-swapping network allows for a depleted battery to be replaced with a fully charged one in just 3 minutes.
The ES9 is expected to be fully revealed in the coming months, with a domestic launch soon after. Availability outside China is yet to be confirmed.
