Chinese automaker Nio has unveiled its flagship ET9, its most expensive and sophisticated model to date. The electric coupe-crossover-fastback (call it what you will) will arrive in 2025 to give Maybach buyers a locally built alternative to cars like the Mercedes EQS and BMW i7.

Much like Nio's smaller EC7, the ET9 challenges traditional distinctions between coupe crossovers and sedans. This is evident not only in its design, but also in its surprisingly high ground clearance.

The ET9 adopts a coupe-style fastback roofline while retaining the Nio's signature design cues. These include a sharp front end with sleek headlights and a rear end that looks like the love child of a Jaguar F-Type and a Porsche Taycan.

In terms of dimensions, the ET9 measures 5,324mm (209.6 inches) in length, 2,016mm (79.4 inches) in width, and 1,620mm (63.8 inches) in height, with a generous 3250mm (128 inches) long wheelbase. For comparison, the Mercedes EQS measures 5,265mm (207.3 inches) long, 1,520mm (59.8 inches) tall, and 1,926mm (75.8 inches) wide, with a 3,210mm (126.4 inches) wheelbase.

Other notable features include concealed door handles, a retractable active rear spoiler and 23-inch multi-spoke wheels with a floating logo that stays upright while the car is in motion. In addition, Nio says the ET9 has the distinction of having the only touchless, electrically operated front trunk in its class.

Inside, the luxurious cabin boasts a four-seat layout with an 'Executive Bridge' running down its center that provides four distinct executive-style suites. The two rear seats are 18-way electric adjustable and recline to 45 degrees, from where 14.5-inch OLED screens attached to the back of the front seats can be enjoyed. A fold-out table stored in the center armrest and 10-liter mini fridge adds to the first-class experience.

All-round sunshades, including two independently controlled sunshades on the roof or 'Sky Island,' close in 5 seconds, cocooning passengers in absolute shade and privacy.

Nio has developed a brand-new 900-volt electric architecture for the ET9, allowing for 600kW battery charging that the carmaker says can provide 255 km (160 miles) of range in just 5 minutes.

Two new electric motors combine for 520 kW of power or around 700 horsepower. The world's first 925-volt W-Pin motor sits at the rear and is rated at 340 kW, capable of running at 20,000 rpm. An induction motor sits at the front developing up to 180 kW.

A swappable 120kW lithium-ion battery provides the electric energy. Nio offers chargeable, swappable and upgradeable batteries, with batteries taking just 3 minutes to be switched out.

The ET9 has a new high-stiff chassis made up of high-strength steel, aluminum, magnesium and composite materials with an active rear spoiler, fully active SkyRide suspension, steer-by-wire system and rear-wheel steering.

In terms of safety and technology, the ET9 is equipped with three lidar sensors, including one in the center and two high-definition cameras on the front edge of the roof. It also has digital rearview mirrors. Nio also claims the ET9 has the world's first 5nm automotive-grade chip with 32-core CPU architecture that can run over 6 trillion commands per second.

The Nio ET9 is currently available for pre-order in China, with deliveries scheduled for the first quarter of 2025. Pricing starts at 800,000 yuan (approximately $112,800 at current exchange rates). Those who pre-order the ET9 will enjoy a number of benefits, including a discount of 5,000 to 10,000 yuan ($705-$1,410) and up to 100 hours of free chauffeur service, among other privileges.

Source: Nio

Евгений Ушаков
Evgenii Ushakov
15 years driving