The third-generation Nio ES8 electric SUV crashed in China ahead of the sales start scheduled for September 20. According to preliminary information, the driver-assistance functions of the new Nio ES8 were inactive before the collision.
The ES8 is Nio’s oldest vehicle, unveiled in late 2017 and going on sale in 2018. The second generation of the ES8 entered China in 2023. Just two years later, Nio prepared for the launch of the third-gen SUV. It will enter the market on September 20 with a starting price of 416,800 yuan (58,430 USD). Recently, the ES8 suddenly made headlines as it crashed in China ahead of the launch.
More about the Nio ES8 III crash
Photos of the first incident with the third-gen Nio ES8 involved were shared online by a Chinese blogger, Shuishuikuang Tongxue. We can see a car with a damaged front end staying in a tunnel. There is no information about the location and the cause of the crash.
According to a Chinese blogger, the Nio’s Navigate on Pilot driver-assistance system wasn’t active before the collision. It means this crash is a result of the driver’s mistake. Despite noticeable damage in the front end, the trunk and doors of the third-gen Nio ES8 opened normally. Airbags deployed without any issues.
More about the Nio ES8 III
The Nio ES8 III is the largest Chinese battery electric SUV with dimensions of 5280/2010/1800 mm. Its wheelbase reaches 3,130 mm. This SUV has three rows of seats with two layout variants: a 2+2+2 and a 2+3+2. The ES8’s center console adopts three screens and a 38-inch augmented reality head-up display.
The Nio ES8 III adopts a dual-motor 4WD with a peak power output of 520 kW (697 hp). Its peak torque reaches 700 Nm. As a result, this crossover speeds up to 100 km/h in 4 seconds. A 102 kWh battery pack provides a CLTC range of 635 km with energy consumption of 16.6 kWh per 100 km.
As mentioned, the Nio ES8 starts at 416,800 yuan (58,430 USD). However, it is also available for order with the BaaS (Battery as a Service) subscription for 308,800 yuan (43,290 USD).
