Nio ES9, China’s largest electric SUV, spotted on streets ahead of launch
Nio is preparing for the launch of its new flagship SUV, the ES9, with deliveries scheduled to commence on June 1, 2026. Following the success of the ES8, the larger and more luxurious ES9 is set to become China’s largest mass-produced battery electric vehicle (BEV) SUV.
The ES9, which was recently spotted during promotional filming, measures 5365mm in length, 2029mm in width, and 1870mm in height, with a substantial wheelbase of 3250mm. It is also only 17mm shorter than a Cadillac Escalade, which is the largest electric SUV in the world, yet features a 179mm longer wheelbase.
The design of the ES9 adheres to Nio’s latest family aesthetic, featuring a sharp-edged front fascia with matrix-style split headlights. The roof incorporates Nio’s signature “three horns,” housing a central LiDAR sensor and two high-definition cameras. The side profile maintains the ES8’s “calm and grand” styling, with options for a two-tone body. For enhanced perception, solid-state LiDAR sensors are integrated into the front fenders to cover blind spots. The rear showcases Nio’s approach with a “Three-layer” full-width taillight and hidden wipers.
As a flagship model, the ES9 integrates Nio’s most advanced technological achievements, many of which are inherited from the ET9 flagship sedan. These include steer-by-wire technology, a full active air suspension system, and rear-wheel steering. The vehicle is equipped with three LiDAR sensors, Nio’s self-developed Shenji NX9031 chip, and the Aquilla super-sensing system. It also features a 900V high-voltage system and an adaptive chassis capable of automatic height adjustment.
Under the hood, the ES9 features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. The front motor delivers 180kW, while the rear motor provides 340kW, culminating in a combined output of 520kW (697 hp) and 700 Nm of torque. This powertrain enables a top speed of 220km/h. Powering the SUV is a 102kWh battery pack supplied by CATL, offering CLTC pure electric range options of 580km, 600km, and 620km. The ES9 supports Nio’s signature 3-minute battery swap technology. The vehicle will be available in both 6- and 7-seat configurations, with a curb weight of 2,915 kg.
CarNewsChina estimates the Nio ES9 to start at approximately 500,000 yuan (72,630 USD), a strategic pricing decision to avoid internal competition with the popular ES8. Nio recently achieved profitability in the fourth quarter of last year, largely driven by robust ES8 sales.
In addition to the ES9, Nio has a busy year ahead, with plans to introduce the Onvo L80 crossover in late April, likely at the Beijing Auto Show 2026. Other new models slated for 2026 include refreshed versions of existing vehicles, such as an updated ES7, a LiDAR-equipped version of the Onvo L90, and a high-power variant of the Firefly.
