Nio just pulled back the curtain on its new Onvo L90 Black Knight Edition at the Guangzhou Auto Show 2025, and it’s quite a stunner. This full-size crossover, limited to a mere 999 units, is hitting the Chinese market with an enticing price tag of 220,800 yuan, or about $31,060 USD, for a battery-free purchase. That’s a considerable undercut to rivals, making it an instant head-turner.
The standard Onvo L90, launched earlier on July 31, quickly became a bestseller for Nio, racking up 33,294 units sold between August and October 2025. This limited Black Knight edition aims to build on that momentum, offering a stealthy, all-black aesthetic that screams performance and exclusivity.
What makes the Black Knight Edition stand out?
True to its name, this special L90 is draped in a commanding black finish, from its bodywork to the rims and all exterior trim. It’s a bold, cohesive look that projects a serious road presence. However, step inside, and you’ll find a surprising contrast: a rich brown interior. This gives the SUV a unique duality, a “Black Knight” persona on the outside with a more luxurious, welcoming cabin within. The interior features a six-seat, 2+2+2 layout, offering ample space and comfort for all passengers.
This limited edition isn’t just about aesthetics; it comes loaded with premium features usually found as optional extras. We’re talking dual-motor 4WD for impressive traction, a zero-gravity captain’s chair in the second row for ultimate passenger comfort, power side steps, striking 21-inch rims, and blacked-out badges that complete the menacing look. These additions alone are valued at around 54,000 yuan ($7,600 USD), making the Black Knight an attractive package right off the bat.
Performance That Commands Attention
Underneath its dark facade, the Onvo L90 Black Knight Edition shares its robust specifications with the standard models. Measuring 5145mm long, 1998mm wide, and 1786mm tall, with a generous 3,110mm wheelbase, it’s a substantial vehicle. Its aerodynamic design boasts a drag coefficient of just 0.25 Cd, helping it slice through the air efficiently. Practicality is also a strong suit, thanks to a sizable 240-liter front trunk and a 430-liter rear trunk.
Power comes from an advanced electric drivetrain. The dual-motor AWD variant delivers a combined peak power of 440 kW (590 hp), ensuring exhilarating acceleration. Standard models come equipped with an 85 kWh battery, offering a competitive range of 570 km. This blend of power, range, and aggressive styling makes the L90 Black Knight a formidable contender in China’s rapidly evolving EV landscape.
Pricing Strategy: Value in the EV Market
The recommended retail price for the Onvo L90 Black Knight Edition is 306,800 yuan ($43,160 USD). While this is 7,000 yuan ($980 USD) more than the top-tier regular L90 Ultra trim, the included premium features offer substantial value. However, the real game-changer is Nio’s innovative BaaS (Battery as a Service) option.
Chinese customers can opt to purchase the L90 Black Knight Edition without the battery pack, dropping the upfront cost to 220,800 yuan ($31,060 USD). Owners then pay a monthly battery subscription fee of 899 yuan (approximately $130 USD). This strategy slashes the entry price, making the L90 Black Knight significantly more accessible. In fact, it makes it 32,700 yuan ($4,600 USD) cheaper than a China-made Tesla Model Y. This shrewd pricing, coupled with its limited availability of 999 units, positions the Onvo L90 Black Knight as a highly desirable and competitive option for discerning EV buyers in China. It’s clear Nio understands the market, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and financial flexibility.
