This year marks a major product offensive for NIO.

From late last year until now, the Chinese automaker has launched seven new models: the '5566' series and ET9 under its main brand, the flagship L90 SUV from its Onvo sub-brand, and the compact Firefly model.

According to its annual plan, NIO still has two vehicles left to unveil: the Onvo L80 (a derivative of the L90) and the all-new third-generation NIO ES8.

For NIO, this ES8 iteration might be one of its most significant vehicles in the company's 10-year history. Its sales performance will directly impact whether NIO achieves its profitability target for Q4 2024 — and ultimately determine if the brand remains competitive in the global EV market.

Key Specifications and Upgrades

NIO has already revealed several key details about the third-gen ES8.

The most noticeable change is its expanded dimensions: the new ES8 measures 5,280mm length, 2,010mm width, and 1,800mm height with a 3,130mm wheelbase. This represents a significant increase from the current model's 5,099mm length, 1,989mm width, 1,750mm height, and 3,070mm wheelbase. Buyers will have options for either 6- or 7-seat configurations.

The 60mm wheelbase extension promises significantly improved cabin space. Sharing the NT 3.0 platform with the Onvo L90, the ES8 will benefit from weight reduction and component miniaturization technologies, enhancing second- and third-row comfort.

▲ Onvo L90's interior space

Official images reveal a prominent front-end partition line — strongly suggesting a sizable frunk similar to the one found in the L90.

Design and Technology

Design updates include revised headlights with new daytime running lights and ABD intelligent multi-beam headlights. The profile features dual character lines and flush-mounted trim, while the rear sports a uniform-width light bar for a more commanding presence.

For advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), the ES8 employs a triple-redundancy system combining long-range front LiDAR, side wide-angle radars, and 4D imaging radar — described as the "most powerful perception system in production vehicles." It will likely use the same dual NX9031 chips found in the ET9.

The single available variant comes equipped with a 102kWh battery (weighing 545kg) providing a 635km CLTC range. Its dual-motor setup delivers 180kW (front) and 340kW (rear) — an upgrade from the current model's 180kW/300kW configuration. With a 65kg weight increase (bringing the total to 2,630kg), real-world acceleration performance remains to be tested.

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