On the eve of the Beijing Auto Show, NIOBahrain NioEgypt NioKSA NioKuwait NioOman NioQatar NioUAE Nio ES9 made its global debut on April 9. This full-size pure-electric SUV, measuring 5,365mm in length with a 3,250mm wheelbase, will be displayed at the show and is scheduled to begin deliveries at the end of May. The ES9 is another milestone in NIO‘s brand elevation, carrying the dual mission of “technology flagship” and “executive sedan.”
Externally, the ES9 continues the essence of NIO’s second-generation design language, with sharper lines and stronger presence. Hidden door handles, frameless doors, and a full-width taillight are all present. The most eye-catching feature is the three LiDAR units mounted on the roof and front fenders – the densest sensor configuration on any NIO production vehicle to date.
Built on a 900V high-voltage platform, the ES9 features NIO‘s self-developed Shenji NX9031 ADAS chip and Tianshu chassis system. The Shenji NX9031 uses a 5nm process, delivering over 1,000 TOPS per chip. Combined with over 30 sensors, it provides powerful computing support for the full-domain NOP+ navigation assist. The Tianshu chassis integrates dual-chamber air suspension and CDC continuously variable damping shock absorbers, enabling millisecond-level road preview and active adjustment. Peak power reaches 520 kW, with a CLTC range of 620 km. Crucially, the ES9 fully supports NIO’s battery swap network – a 3-minute battery swap eliminates range anxiety.
Inside, the ES9 adopts a “second living room” concept. Two independent executive seats in the second row offer 14-way electric adjustment, ventilation, heating, massage and leg rests, with an 8-inch touchscreen embedded in the central armrest. The third row also features electric adjustment and independent air vents. The smart cockpit runs NIO‘s latest Banyan 3.0 system, with the NOMI assistant recognizing passenger emotions and intentions to offer proactive services.
The ES9 competes directly with the Mercedes EQS SUV, Tesla Model XUAE Tesla Model XKSA Tesla Model XKuwait Tesla Model XQatar Tesla Model XOman Tesla Model XBahrain Tesla Model XEgypt Tesla Model X and BMW iXUAE BMW iXBahrain BMW iXEgypt BMW iXKSA BMW iXOman BMW iXQatar BMW iX. With its 900V platform, triple LiDAR, battery swap network and premium executive cabin, the ES9 is poised to secure a strong position in the 500,000–600,000 yuan price range. For NIO, the ES9 is not just a sales driver but a litmus test of brand value. Under the spotlight of the Beijing Auto Show, the ES9 will face global scrutiny.
