Nio’s new brand, Onvo, is shaking up China’s electric vehicle market with the full-size L90 SUV, set to debut with a starting price under 300,000 yuan (approximately 41,870 USD). This six-seat family hauler is engineered to impress, boasting a cutting-edge 900V high-voltage system, up to a blistering 440 kW (590 hp) of power, and a substantial 605 km CLTC range complemented by Nio’s signature battery swap technology.
Onvo, launched in May 2024, is Nio’s strategic play to expand its market reach beyond premium segments and significantly boost sales volumes. The L90 marks the second offering from this ambitious brand, following the L60 fastback crossover, which has already seen impressive sales figures. The L60, priced at 206,900 yuan (28,875 USD), recorded over 46,000 cumulative sales between September 2024 and May 2025, according to China EV DataTracker.
Aggressive Pricing and Strategic Positioning
Nio co-founder and CEO William Li confirmed the Onvo L90’s aggressive starting price during a recent online broadcast. Its sub-300,000 yuan entry point positions it directly against a crowded field of new energy rivals in China. There’s also a more affordable five-seat variant, the Onvo L80, on the horizon, though its pricing details remain under wraps for now.
While the entry-level L90 will initially come with a single rear-axle electric motor, a more powerful dual-motor 4WD version is expected to exceed the 300,000 yuan mark, potentially reaching around 350,000 yuan (48,850 USD). This strategy allows Onvo to cater to a broader spectrum of buyers looking for both value and performance.
Dimensions and Features Designed for Family Comfort
Commanding a presence on the road, the Onvo L90 measures 5145 mm in length, 1998 mm in width, and 1766 mm in height, with a generous wheelbase of 3,110 mm. To put that into perspective, it’s slightly shorter and lower than a Mercedes-Benz GLS X167, but notably wider, giving it a powerful stance. Rolling on stylish 21-inch rims, the L90 isn’t just about size, it’s about thoughtful luxury. The six-seat interior ensures every passenger travels in comfort, with all seats featuring power adjustments. Long journeys are made more enjoyable thanks to a built-in refrigerator and a ceiling-mounted monitor for second-row passengers, proving that family-friendly doesn’t mean compromising on amenities. This emphasis on passenger comfort aligns with a growing trend in the Chinese market for spacious and feature-rich family vehicles.
Powertrain and Battery Innovations
Under the hood, or rather, underneath the floor, the Onvo L90 offers a choice of two potent powertrains. The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant features a single electric motor delivering a robust 340 kW (456 hp). For those craving more exhilaration and all-weather capability, the dual-motor 4WD version unleashes a combined peak output of 440 kW (590 hp). Powering these impressive setups is an 85-kWh battery pack, providing a CLTC range of 570 – 605 km. Crucially, the L90 is integrated into Nio’s advanced battery swap ecosystem, offering unparalleled convenience and virtually eliminating range anxiety.
This commitment to innovative battery technology and convenient energy solutions is a testament to Nio’s deep experience in the Chinese EV industry, where advancements in battery development are constantly pushing the boundaries. The Onvo L90 is set to officially open for orders on July 10, with test vehicles already making their way to showrooms across China, building anticipation for what promises to be a compelling offering in the full-size electric SUV segment. Its launch signals another exciting chapter in the rapidly evolving landscape of Chinese EV makers, where brands are continuously striving to blend performance, practicality, and value.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak power (RWD) | 340 | kW | Single motor output |
| Peak power (4WD) | 440 | kW | Combined motor output |
| Battery capacity | 85 | kWh | Supports battery swap |
| Range (CLTC) | 570–605 | km | Dependent on variant |
| Voltage System | 900 | V | High-voltage architecture |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 5145/1998/1766 | mm | Spacious full-size SUV |
| Wheelbase | 3110 | mm | |
| Starting price (China) | Under 300,000 (41,870) | yuan (USD) | Entry-level model |
The Consumer Angle: Comfort and Usability
Beyond raw specs, the L90 is designed with daily usability in mind. The six-seat configuration with power-adjustable seating points to a focus on passenger comfort. Imagine road trips where everyone has their own space, and kids can watch their favorite shows on the ceiling-mounted monitor. The practical touches, like the refrigerator, add to the appeal for families. The vehicle’s dimensions place it firmly in the full-size SUV category, offering ample cargo space and a commanding view of the road. With Nio’s established reputation for service and its innovative battery swap network, ownership of an Onvo L90 promises a seamless and premium experience. This blend of performance, luxury, and thoughtful everyday features aims to make the L90 a strong contender in the competitive EV landscape.
Chinese Market Dynamics
Nio’s move with Onvo signals a broader trend in the Chinese EV market, where established players are diversifying to capture larger segments. The competitive pricing of the L90, alongside its advanced technology and comfortable amenities, directly targets the heart of the mass market. Chinese consumers are increasingly seeking sophisticated, yet affordable, electric vehicles, and brands like Onvo are stepping up to meet that demand. The swift pace of product updates and intense rivalry among Chinese EV makers mean that constant innovation and value offerings are key to success. The L90’s strategy of offering both RWD and 4WD options, along with a planned five-seat variant, showcases a nuanced understanding of consumer needs in this dynamic market. You can also explore how other manufacturers like Changan are expanding their reach in the EV sector. The market is constantly evolving, with new models and strategies emerging regularly to cater to diverse customer preferences and budgetary requirements.
