Nio reveals all-new ES8 with 900V tech and aggressive pricing

Nio has launched presales in China for its all-new, third-generation ES8. The new Nio ES8 is now much bigger, and it has been completely re-engineered, graduating into the large electric SUV category. Packed with next-generation technology, including a powerful 900-volt electrical system, the ES8 also comes with a unique pricing strategy that could make it an appealing choice for families ready to switch to an EV.

The most obvious update for the 2025 Nio ES8 is its size. The SUV now measures 207.9 inches in length, 79.1 inches in width, and 70.9 inches in height, sitting on a lengthy 123.2 inches wheelbase. To put that in perspective, the vehicle has grown by 7.1 inches in length and its wheelbase has been stretched by 2.36 inches compared to the outgoing model.

This unexpected growth spurt directly benefits passengers with a more expansive cabin. Nio is offering two interior layouts to accommodate different needs: a six-seat model arranged in a 2+2+2 configuration for easy access to the third row, and a more conventional seven-seat 2+3+2 setup.

The new ES8 is built on the same advanced 900-volt electrical architecture found in the company's flagship ET9 sedan. This platform supports a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain with an induction motor at the front axle producing 180 kW and 221 lb-ft of torque, and a potent permanent magnet motor at the rear delivering 340 kW and 295 lb-ft. The combined system output is 520 kW with 516 lb-ft of torque. All that power allows this large family vehicle to accelerate from a standstill to 62 mph in just under four seconds.

But the most impressive feature of this new electric car is its charging performance. The standard 102 kWh battery pack provides an estimated range of 395 miles based on the CLTC standard. However, the real headline is how quickly that range can be recovered. Thanks to its 900-volt system, the ES8 can accept charging power up to an impressive 600 kW. Nio claims that at a compatible fast-charging station, a short five-minute plug-in can add up to 155 miles of driving range.

Inside, the Nio ES8 feels less like a car and more like a mobile tech lounge. The cabin is filled with screens and high-end features. The driver is greeted by a 38-inch augmented reality head-up display, which can project navigation and safety alerts directly into the line of sight.

A large 16.4-inch AMOLED screen serves as the central command center. In case anyone in the back feels left out, a 21.4-inch screen with 3K resolution folds down from the ceiling. Amenities like five-zone climate control, a small refrigerator, and heated seats for every passenger are standard, and a 2,600-watt, 27-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system provides the audio experience.

To ensure a smooth ride, the Nio ES8 comes standard with a dual-chamber air suspension system. This technology allows the vehicle's ride height to be adjusted by a total of 3.94 inches (0 inches from the standard setting). The system includes convenient features like an "Easy Entry" mode that lowers the vehicle by 1.97 inches for easier boarding and an "Easy Load" mode that drops the rear suspension when the trunk is opened.

For driver assistance and safety, the ES8 comes standard with an extensive array of sensors, including a primary roof-mounted LiDAR, several wide-angle LiDAR units, and 4D imaging radar, all processed by Nio's powerful NX9031 computer chip.

In China, the new ES8 is priced to compete with rivals like the Aito M8 and M9. The vehicle starts at RMB 416,800 (approximately $57,000) for a full purchase. Nio continues to offer its popular Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program, which lowers the initial purchase price to RMB 308,800 (about $42,200). Customers choosing the battery rental option pay a separate monthly subscription fee.

Via