Chinese automaker Nio has started sales of its third-generation ES8 electric SUV in China. It is the largest Chinese electric SUV, and is priced from 416,800 yuan (about AED 209,000), while customers opting for the company’s Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) programme can pay 308,800 yuan (about AED 155,000) with the battery portion leased separately. Deliveries in China are expected to begin by late September 2025.
AI Quick Summary
Nio’s third-generation ES8, the largest Chinese electric SUV, launched in China with a starting price of around AED 209,000 (or AED 155,000 with the Battery-as-a-Service option). The six or seven-seat SUV boasts a powerful dual-motor AWD system, a range of 635km, and luxurious features like a 27-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system and advanced driver-assistance technology. Its potential success in the UAE market hinges on factors like the availability of Nio’s BaaS program, service infrastructure, and consumer acceptance of the brand.
This summary was generated by AI using this article’s content.
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This raises the question: if the ES8 reaches the UAE market, would it find buyers in a country that is steadily increasing EV adoption?
What Are the Prices and Variants of the ES8?
The ES8 is offered in six- and seven-seat layouts. Three trims are currently listed:
- Six-Seat Executive Luxury – 416,800 yuan (AED 209,000) or 308,800 yuan (AED 155,000) with BaaS.
- Six-Seat Executive Signature – 456,800 yuan (AED 229,000) or 348,800 yuan (AED 175,000) with BaaS.
- Seven-Seat Executive Luxury – 416,800 yuan (AED 209,000) or 308,800 yuan (AED 155,000) with BaaS.
How Big Is the Nio ES8?
The ES8 is the largest Chinese electric SUV. Dimensions:
- Length: 5,280 mm
- Width: 2,010 mm
- Height: 1,800 mm
- Wheelbase: 3,130 mm
Both six-seat (2+2+2) and seven-seat (2+3+2) layouts are available.
What Are the Key Exterior Features?
The ES8 follows Nio’s “Design for Success” style. It includes:
- Dual-layer “Double Dash” daytime running lights.
- HD projection headlights with lane-tracking and light-tracing.
- Hidden door handles and a concealed rear wiper.
- Rear light bar with 600 LEDs and 480 SuperRed particles.
- 22-inch forged wheels with Pirelli tyres.
- Six body colour options, including Xinglan Grey.
What Does the Interior Offer?
The cabin is designed around digital displays and flexible seating. Key features:
- 48-inch Skyline display, 16.4-inch centre screen, and 38-inch AR-HUD.
- Second-row seats recline up to 151 degrees with heating and leg support.
- All rows get heating, some seats also have ventilation.
- Five-zone climate control, folding tables, and a small refrigerator.
- 27-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system with 2,600-watt output.
- 21.4-inch rear ceiling display with 3K resolution.
- Cargo space: 547 litres, expandable to 3,230 litres, plus 230-litre front trunk.
How Powerful Is the ES8?
- Motors: Dual-motor AWD setup. Front motor: 180 kW (241 hp), 300 Nm; Rear motor: 340 kW (456 hp), 400 Nm.
- Total output: 520 kW (697 hp), 700 Nm.
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in 3.97 seconds.
What Is the Battery Range and Charging Capacity?
- Battery: 102 kWh.
- Range: 635 km (CLTC cycle).
- Charging: Supports up to 600 kW charging.
- Five-minute charge adds around 250 km under ideal conditions.
How Advanced Is the Suspension and Driver Assistance?
- Suspension: Dual-chamber air suspension adjustable by ±50 mm.
- Ground clearance: 165 mm, with up to 650 mm wading depth.
- Driver assistance: Roof LiDAR, 4D radar, cameras, and Nio’s NX9031 chip for semi-autonomous driving.
Could the Nio ES8 Succeed in the UAE Market?
In China, the ES8 competes with Aito M8 and M9. In the UAE, it would rival Tesla Model X, BMW iX, and Mercedes EQS SUV.
Key questions for UAE buyers:
- Will Nio bring its BaaS model to the UAE?
- Are service centres and charging compatibility ready?
- How will battery leasing compare with full ownership in costs?
Would You Consider Buying It?
With the UAE’s push towards electric mobility, the ES8 could be a relevant option for large families and corporate buyers. The real test would be whether UAE drivers would adopt a new Chinese EV brand alongside established names.
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FAQs
What is the price of the Nio ES8 Gen 3?
In China, the ES8 Gen 3 starts at around AED 209,000. With the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) option, the starting price is reduced to about AED 155,000.
What is the range of the Nio ES8 Gen 3?
The ES8 Gen 3 comes with a 102 kWh battery that delivers up to 635 km on the CLTC cycle. Charging can add 250 km in just five minutes.
How powerful is the Nio ES8 Gen 3?
It has a dual-motor AWD system producing 520 kW (697 hp) and 700 Nm of torque. The SUV accelerates from 0–100 km/h in about 3.97 seconds.
How many seats does the Nio ES8 Gen 3 have?
The SUV is available in both six-seat (2+2+2) and seven-seat (2+3+2) configurations, making it suitable for families and group travel.
Will the Nio ES8 Gen 3 be available in the UAE?
Currently, the ES8 Gen 3 has been launched in China. Nio has not confirmed a UAE release, but the region’s growing EV market makes it a possible future destination.
Chinese automaker Nio has started sales of its third-generation ES8 electric SUV in China. It is the largest Chinese electric SUV, and is priced from 416,800 yuan (about AED 209,000), while customers opting for the company’s Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) programme can
