NIO has officially unveiled the first images of its upcoming flagship SUV, the ES9. Positioned as the brand’s new top-tier offering, the ES9 is packed with NIO’s most advanced technological innovations, including the “Sky Ride” fully active suspension system and steer-by-wire technology. The vehicle is designed to offer a premium experience, featuring intelligent visual perception that can automatically lower the chassis height for easier access to parking garages. The ES9 is set to make its public debut and open for pre-orders on April 9.
In terms of design, the ES9 adopts the latest “Shark Nose” styling language. It features sharp, split-style headlights—officially dubbed “Ultra-Pure Crystal Diamond” daytime running lights—which are expected to include enhanced welcome lighting sequences. Detailed images reveal crystal elements within the light housing, significantly elevating the vehicle’s sense of refinement. Similar to the current ES8, the lighting system is expected to support multiple welcome light effects and high-definition projection capabilities, capable of displaying music-synced videos on walls up to 10 meters away. The HDPL intelligent high-definition projection headlights offer a beam width covering up to six lanes, utilizing multi-sensor detection to identify vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles for improved night-time safety.
From the side, the ES9 is equipped with wide-angle LiDAR sensors on both front fenders, complemented by “AD” blue indicator lights that add a touch of ceremony. The vehicle’s autonomous driving hardware suite is on par with the NIO ET9, featuring roof-mounted LiDAR, 4D imaging radar, front-facing binocular cameras, and side-view cameras. It will be powered by NIO’s proprietary Shenji NX9031 autonomous driving chip and integrated with the NIO World Model (NWM).
The interior adopts a wraparound design, continuing the use of the “Skyline” screen layout that displays vehicle information for both the driver and front passenger. The center console is expected to house a 15.6-inch AMOLED floating screen running the SkyOS system, which integrates vehicle control, intelligent driving, and cabin entertainment. Premium touches include embroidered details on door panels and headrests, genuine wood trim, and Nappa leather upholstery.
The rear cabin features a 2+2+2 six-seat layout, incorporating the “Sky Island” and “Executive Bridge” design concepts seen in the ET9. Passengers benefit from dual 14.5-inch NIO Link panoramic screens and an 8-inch rear control screen. The second-row seats offer zero-gravity functionality, ventilation, heating, and massage. Additionally, the second and third rows feature flexible electrochromic privacy glass, allowing for zone-based control of transparency and heat insulation.
Built on a 900V high-voltage architecture, the ES9 is powered by dual electric motors with a combined output of 520kW (180kW front/340kW rear). It is equipped with a 102kWh battery pack, offering CLTC-rated ranges of 580km, 600km, and 620km. Measuring 5365/2029/1870mm with a 3250mm wheelbase, the ES9 is a massive presence in the luxury SUV segment.
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