Nio’s budget-friendly EV sub-brand, Firefly, will make its UK debut as early as October 2025. The first right-hand-drive versions of the Firefly hatchback are reportedly already under production, with the model poised to challenge rivals like the Volkswagen ID.2 and the reborn Renault 5 in Europe’s increasingly competitive compact EV segment.

Unveiled in April 2025 in China, the Firefly is Nio’s third brand and first entry into the small EV market. The vehicle bears the same name as the brand and shares Nio’s sales, delivery, and aftersales network. With a starting price of 1119,800 yuan (approx. 16,500 USD), the Firefly is positioned to attract younger buyers seeking affordable yet tech-laden electric vehicles.

The Firefly features a trio of circular LED rings forming its “trio” headlight signature at the front and rear. Measuring 4003/1781/1557 mm with a 2,615 mm wheelbase, the vehicle maintains a compact footprint while offering a surprisingly practical 92-litre front trunk with drainage and layered storage functionality.

Other design highlights include a blacked-out A- and B-pillar, dual-tone 18-inch alloy wheels, and a roof spoiler integrated into its playful rear styling. The Firefly uses a dual-spoke multifunction steering wheel, a floating centre screen, and a fully digital instrument cluster. The interior also prioritises safety, with materials certified to infant-care standards. Buyers can choose from four colour schemes and two types of upholstery.

Underpinning the Firefly is a single rear-mounted motor producing 141 hp, delivering a CLTC-rated range of up to 260 miles (approx. 418 km). A standout feature is its 4.7-meter turning radius—class-leading in its segment—and the inclusion of full-scenario automated parking.

In May, its first whole sales month, the Firefly delivered 3,680 units, contributing significantly to Nio’s 13.1% year-on-year growth that month. Total cumulative deliveries have now exceeded 3,900 units.

Nio President Qin Lihong confirmed at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show that right-hand-drive Firefly models are in development, targeting the UK as one of the brand’s key European markets. While an exact launch date has yet to be announced, Nio has previously stated it is actively preparing for entry into the UK, with more details expected soon.

The UK is one of 16 global markets Nio plans to enter this year, including seven confirmed European countries: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, Poland, and Romania. In addition to the Firefly, Nio will offer other European models such as the EL6 and EL8 SUVs (sold in China as the ES6 and ES8), the ET5 sedan, and the ET5 Touring estate.

Nio is also reportedly considering introducing the Onvo L60—a coupe-style SUV rival to the Tesla Model Y—to the UK market. Nio’s product executive, Eric Yu, emphasised that the UK’s lack of tariffs on Chinese EV imports provides a strategic advantage, especially compared to the 31% import duties currently applied in the EU.

Further announcements regarding Nio’s European expansion are expected in the coming weeks.