Nio is preparing to launch its new flagship SUV, the ES9, with deliveries expected to begin on 1/6. Following the success of the ES8, the larger and more luxurious ES9 promises to be the biggest mass-produced electric SUV in China.

The ES9 has a length of 5,365 mm, a width of 2,029 mm, and a height of 1,870 mm, with a wheelbase of 3,250 mm. This Chinese electric SUV is only 17 mm shorter than the Cadillac Escalade but boasts a wheelbase that is 179 mm longer.

The ES9's design adheres to Nio's latest aesthetic, featuring a sharp front end with split matrix headlights. The roof integrates Nio's characteristic "three horns," housing a central LiDAR sensor and two high-definition cameras. A two-tone body option is available. To enhance visibility, LiDAR sensors are integrated into the front fenders to cover blind spots. The rear of the vehicle features full-width taillights and a hidden rear wiper.

Nio ES9 captured during filming on a street. Photo: Weibo

The rear of the vehicle features full-width taillights and a hidden rear wiper.

This Chinese electric SUV is only 17 mm shorter than the Cadillac Escalade but boasts a wheelbase that is 179 mm longer.

As a flagship model, the ES9 incorporates Nio's most advanced technological achievements, many of which are inherited from the flagship ET9 sedan. These include electronic driving technology, a fully 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 supersensing system. It features a 900 V high-voltage electrical system and an adaptive chassis capable of automatic height adjustment.

The ES9 utilizes an all-wheel drive system with two motors. The front motor delivers 241 horsepower, while the rear motor provides 455 horsepower, resulting in a total output of 697 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque. This powertrain allows the vehicle to reach a maximum speed of 220 km/h.

Powering the SUV is a 102 kWh battery pack manufactured by CATL, offering CLTC pure electric range options of 580 km, 600 km, and 620 km. The ES9 supports Nio's signature 3-minute battery swap technology. The vehicle will be available in both 6 and 7-seat versions, with an unladen weight of 2,915 kg.

CarNewsChina estimates the starting price of the Nio ES9 to be around 500,000 yuan (USD 72,630), a strategic pricing decision aimed at avoiding internal competition with the popular ES8 model. Nio recently achieved profitability in Q4/2025, largely due to ES8 sales.

Beyond the ES9, Nio has a busy year ahead, with plans to introduce the Onvo L80 crossover in late April, possibly at the Beijing Auto Show 2026. Other new models expected to launch in 2026 include updated versions of existing models, such as the ES7, a LiDAR-equipped Onvo L90 variant, and a high-performance version of the Firefly.

In China, other SUVs exceeding 5,300 mm in length include the Wey V9X (5,299 mm) and the BYD Great Tang (5,302 mm). However, the Wey is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, not a pure electric SUV, while the BYD model also uses a battery, and both only recently revealed their specifications via registration filings last February.

My Anh