Just a couple of months after the first details trickled out, Nio’s Firefly sub-brand has dropped a set of real-world photos of its first EV, revealing a sharp new wheel design and confirming an April sales launch in China. The brand is clearly aiming to shake up the compact EV segment with its combination of style, tech, and an accessible price point.
Nio opened pre-sales for the Firefly back in December, pegging it with an estimated price of 148,800 yuan (about 20,460 USD). It’s a compelling figure that has already attracted early adopters in China, who can reserve one with a small 199 yuan (24 USD) deposit.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak power | 105 | kW | Equivalent to 140 hp |
| Range (CLTC) | 420 | km | Based on China’s CLTC test cycle |
| Battery capacity | 42.1 | kWh | LFP chemistry |
| Battery supplier / cell type | Sunwoda / LFP | — | Lithium Iron Phosphate offers durability |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 4003/1781/1557 | mm | Comparable to a 5-door Mini Cooper |
| Wheelbase | 2,615 | mm | |
| Cargo volume (frunk) | 92 | L | Uncommon for a vehicle in this class |
| Cargo volume (rear seats down) | 1,250 | L | Rear seats up volume not disclosed |
| Starting price (China) | ¥148,800 | CNY | Estimated; approximately 20,460 USD |
A Distinctive Design with a Playful Vibe
The Firefly definitely won’t be mistaken for anything else on the road. Its most striking feature is the cluster of three round lights at each corner, giving it a unique visual signature. A black trim piece connects the headlights and taillights, creating a cohesive look that feels modern and clean.
The designers added some nice details, like a subtle upward kink in the trim under the doors and hidden handles for a smooth profile. Matched with a black roof, the blacked-out rear spoiler adds a surprisingly sporty touch. While earlier images showed a basic six-spoke design, these new photos reveal a much sleeker multi-spoke wheel option that gives the car a more premium feel.
An Interior Built for Practicality
While official interior shots are still under wraps, spy photos have given us a peek inside. The driver gets a digital instrument cluster mounted on the steering column, and a large, horizontal infotainment screen dominates the dashboard. This setup is similar to other Nio models, so we can expect the screen to measure around 12.8 inches and feature a responsive, intuitive interface.
For a compact car, the Firefly offers impressive utility. It’s one of the few Nio models to include a frunk, which adds a handy 92 liters of storage up front. With the rear seats folded down, boot space expands to a generous 1,250 liters, making it surprisingly practical for hauling larger items.
Fun-to-Drive Dynamics and Smart Tech
Measuring just over four meters long, the Firefly is perfectly sized for city life, with dimensions similar to a 5-door Mini Cooper. But unlike its front-wheel-drive rival, the Firefly sends its power to the rear wheels via a 105 kW (140 hp) electric motor. This setup, combined with a nearly perfect 50:50 weight distribution, promises agile and engaging handling, much like the fan-favorite Honda e.
The whole system is powered by a 42.1 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery from Sunwoda, delivering a CLTC-rated range of 420 km. Critically, the Firefly supports Nio’s battery-swapping technology. This allows owners to swap, charge, or even upgrade their battery packs, eliminating range anxiety and future-proofing the car against battery degradation.
A Global EV with Big Ambitions
Firefly CEO Daniel Jin has made it clear that this isn’t just a car for China. It’s designed as a global EV, positioned to compete with established brands like Mini and Smart but at a more affordable price. The company plans to enter the European market in the second quarter of 2025, with Latin America and Southeast Asia to follow. It’s a bold strategy that could introduce a compelling new option for buyers seeking a stylish, practical, and fun-to-drive compact EV.
