A New Chinese EV Arrives on European Shores
Nio is making a bold new move in Europe. The company just started deliveries of its Firefly EV, a chic electric hatchback, in Norway and the Netherlands. Designed as an urban runabout, the Firefly represents Nio’s strategy to capture a different segment of the European market. But while the car has been a modest hit in China, its European pricing strategy is raising some eyebrows.
The Firefly is Nio’s dedicated brand for Europe, designed to offer smaller, more accessible EVs than its premium SUV lineup. After launching in China in April 2025 and selling over 10,000 units, the Firefly is now ready to take on Europe. Norway and the Netherlands are the first stops, with plans to expand to Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, and several other countries soon.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | 8.2 | s | Rear-axle single motor |
| Peak power | 105 | kW | Equivalent to 141 hp |
| Range (WLTP) | 330 | km | Based on the European test cycle |
| Battery capacity (gross) | 42.1 | kWh | Designed for urban efficiency |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 4003/1781/1557 | mm | Compact city car footprint |
| Wheelbase | 2,615 | mm | Maximizes interior space |
| Starting price (Norway) | 279,900 | NOK | Approximately 27,500 USD |
| Starting price (Netherlands) | 29,900 | EUR | Approximately 34,940 USD |
| Starting price (China) | ¥119,800 | CNY | Approximately 16,610 USD |
The Price Question
Here’s where things get interesting. In China, the Firefly EV is a bargain, starting at just 119,800 yuan (about $16,610). For a well-reviewed compact EV, that’s a compelling figure. However, the European prices tell a different story.
In Norway, a country outside the EU with friendly tax rules for EVs, the price starts at 279,900 NOK ($27,500). That’s a significant jump. In the Netherlands, it’s even steeper. The base model costs 29,900 EUR ($34,930), climbing to 32,500 EUR ($37,970) for the top trim. This positions it directly against the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric, which starts at 27,990 EUR. The price hike is largely due to a 31% import tariff the EU slaps on Nio cars, showcasing the challenges Chinese automakers face in Europe.
A Modest, But Symbolic, Beginning
Nio confirmed the first deliveries began on August 14 but kept quiet on the exact numbers. However, registration data tells a story. Nio registered six Firefly EVs in Norway in July and another six in the Netherlands in June. Photos from the Dutch delivery event show exactly six cars, suggesting the initial launch was a small, symbolic affair. This cautious rollout is typical for brands testing a new market, but it highlights that this is just the beginning of a long road. The overall Chinese auto market is watching closely to see how this strategy unfolds.
What Does the Firefly Offer?
Despite the sticker shock, the Firefly EV is a feature-packed little car. It’s slightly larger than the Renault 5, giving it a bit more presence. Power comes from a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 105 kW (141 hp), which is plenty to make it feel zippy in city traffic. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint takes a respectable 8.2 seconds.
Its 42.1 kWh battery delivers a WLTP-rated range of 330 km, which is perfectly adequate for daily commuting and weekend trips. The interior is modern and well-appointed, featuring a large 13.2-inch touchscreen, nine airbags, and ambient lighting. The base model even includes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, while the top trim adds luxuries like a power tailgate, sunroof, and ventilated massage seats. These are features you don’t always find in this segment.
The strategy of launching with a sub-brand mirrors what Nio has done with its larger, more premium Onvo brand, allowing it to target different customer needs simultaneously. The Firefly is a smartly designed EV with a lot to offer, but its success will hinge on whether European buyers see enough value to look past its premium price tag.
