Nio’s new electric hatchback, the Firefly, recently began presales in China at 148,800 yuan (around 20,400 USD). While the exterior has been seen, the interior remained a mystery, until now. CarNewsChina got an exclusive look inside, revealing some intriguing design choices.
Driver-Focused Cockpit with an Integrated Screen
The Firefly’s cabin boasts two LCD screens, but it’s the driver’s instrument panel that truly stands out. It’s mounted directly onto the steering wheel column, a setup reminiscent of high-performance supercars. This clever design means the display adjusts with the wheel, keeping crucial information constantly within the driver’s line of sight, ensuring optimal focus on the road. The infotainment screen, a familiar sight in Nio vehicles, is positioned horizontally above the central tunnel. It features slim bezels and is expected to match the 12.8-inch size found across the rest of the Nio lineup.
Thoughtful Touches and Practicality
The Firefly doesn’t just innovate with its screen placement. It also features a distinctive square-shaped steering wheel with two broad spokes, housing two sets of physical, round control buttons for easy access. Adding to the cabin’s airy feel is a large sunroof, perfect for urban adventures. These interior details align perfectly with earlier spy shots, confirming Nio’s commitment to both form and function. Interestingly, the Firefly will be Nio’s second vehicle to offer a frunk, providing a handy 92 liters of additional storage. The rear trunk offers a substantial 1,250 liters of capacity with the seats folded down, making it surprisingly practical for a compact EV, though the standard trunk space is yet to be revealed.
Global Ambition and Battery Swapping
Designed in Munich with a global vision, the Firefly boasts a tight turning radius of 4.7 meters, ideal for city driving. It also supports battery swapping, a signature Nio feature, but its battery pack is not compatible with Nio’s existing network of 2,900 swap stations. Nio has not yet released other technical specifications. The Firefly is slated for a China launch in April 2025, possibly at the Shanghai Auto Show, with its European debut expected in May or June, followed by other markets like Latin America and Southeast Asia. Nio aims to enter 25 markets by 2025, a clear sign of its aggressive global expansion strategy.
