A rival to the Tesla Model S and BMW i7, the new ET9 boasts nearly 700 hp and is priced from $112,800. It is set to go on sale in China starting from 2025
by John Halas
December 23, 2023 at 10:34
The Nio Day 2023 wasn’t just a glitzy affair with champagne toasts; it marked the debut of the Chinese electric carmaker’s most premium offering to date, the flagship ET9 sedan. Positioned to compete with the likes of the Tesla Model S, Mercedes-Benz EQS, BMW i7, as well as their ICE counterparts such as the S-Class and 7-Series, the ET9 brings a new 900V architecture to the table, packing nearly 700 hp under the hood. It is poised to hit the Chinese market next year, with initial deliveries anticipated in early 2025.
Familiar Design
Much like Nio’s smaller EC7, the ET9 challenges traditional distinctions between coupe-crossovers and sedans. This is evident not only in its design but also in its surprisingly high ground clearance for a full-size sedan.
The ET9 embraces a coupe-style fastback roofline, retaining Nio’s signature (and not so signature) design elements. These include a sharp front end with slim headlights and a rear end that appears to be the lovechild of a Jaguar F-Type and Porsche Taycan. However, it lacks the more athletic appearance of it smaller sibling, the BMW i4-sized ET5. Instead, it leans towards resembling an extended version of Nio’s EC6 Coupe SUV.
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In terms of dimensions, the ET9 measures 5,324mm (209.6 inches) in length, 2,016mm (79.4 inches) in width, and 1,620mm (63.8 inches) in height, with a generous 3250mm (128 inches) long wheelbase. For comparison, the Mercedes EQS measures 5,265mm (207.3 inches) long, 1,520mm (59.8 inches) tall, and 1,926mm (75.8 inches) wide, with a 3,210mm (126.4 inches) wheelbase.
Other notable features include concealed door handles, a retractable active rear spoiler, and 23-inch multi-spoke wheels with a floating logo design reminiscent of Rolls-Royce that remains upright while the car is in motion. Furthermore, Nio says that the ET9 boasts the distinction of having the only touch-free electric opening and closing front trunk in its class.
First Class Interior
While Nio has not yet revealed the dashboard design in full, they’ve been quite generous in sharing the opulent rear passenger compartment details. It’s evident that the company’s priorities lean toward pampering those in the back seat. The ET9’s first class-style rear seats offer a backrest adjustment angle of up to 45 degrees, a seat cushion width of 582mm (22.9 inches), and 11 one-click adjustments. Plus, for that touch of opulence, the car boasts 7 electric sunshades that can be activated with a single press of a button.
Among other amenities are an 8-inch tablet-style screen placed between the seats, an electric opening and closing smart refrigerator, and two 14.5-inch AMOLED screens mounted on the back of the front seats. Instead of a traditional instrument panel, the ET9 relies on a head-up display system and a 15.6-inch tablet-style AMOLED screen on the center console. Nio also mentions a retractable steering wheel design that can be stowed into the instrument panel when the smart pilot function is engaged.
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In terms of safety and technology, the ET9 is equipped with three lidar sensors, including one in the center and two high-definition cameras on the front edge of the roof. Additionally, it features digital rear-view mirrors.
Powertrain and Charging
Under the skin, the ET9 is built on Nio’s third-generation platform, featuring 900V Architecture, a first in China, that operates at the highest voltage of 925V. This enables rapid charging with a peak power of 600kW and a peak current of 765A. According to Nio, this facilitates an ultra-fast recharge of the 120kWh battery with 46105 cells, extending the range by 255km (about 160 miles) with just a 5-minute charge. As with other Nio products, the ET9 supports a full battery swap in just 3 minutes.
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The ET9 is equipped with Sky Ride, Nio’s intelligent chassis system, which includes a drive-by-wire chassis, rear-wheel steering with a maximum angle of 8.3 degrees, and a fully active suspension system where each shock absorber is independently controlled by a dedicated hydraulic pump
Powering the ET9 are two electric motors: an asynchronous front motor producing 180 kW (241 hp) and a rear permanent magnet synchronous motor generating 340 kW (456 hp). Together, they deliver a combined output of 520 kW or 697 hp.
Pricing and Availability
Although Nio has not disclosed plans for the availability of the ET9 in other markets, it is currently open for pre-orders in China, with deliveries scheduled for the first quarter of 2025. Pricing starts at 800,000 yuan (about US$112,800 at current exchange rates). Early birds who pre-order the ET9 will enjoy a number of benefits, , including a discount ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 yuan ($705-$1,410) and up to 100 hours of complimentary chauffeur service, among other perks.