Nio’s ambition to penetrate the U.S. market may still be on the drawing board, but back home, they’re not just sitting around. Enter the ET9, Nio’s latest and greatest addition to its electric fleet. This flagship model elevates the brand’s lineup to a total of nine electric models, each brimming with innovation and tech.
A “Landjet” in the EV World
The term “landjet” might sound like something out of a sci-fi novel, but it’s exactly how Nio describes the ET9’s design. Picture this: a vehicle that stretches 209.7 inches end to end, narrowly outdoing the extended-wheelbase Bentley Bentayga by a mere 0.8 inch. Yet, it’s not just any vehicle. With a colossal 128-inch wheelbase tucked under its frame, the ET9 presents itself with the elegance of an extra-large crossover, standing tall (or rather, not so tall) at 63.8 inches—significantly sleeker than the Bentayga.
Nio ET9 Range And Power
Under the hood (so to speak), the ET9 is a beast. It’s equipped with all-wheel drive, courtesy of two robust motors: a 241-hp asynchronous motor up front and a 456-hp permanent-magnet synchronous motor at the back. Together, they unleash a formidable 697 hp. The 120.0-kWh battery not only boasts a 925-volt system but also supports jaw-dropping DC fast-charging rates of up to 600 kW. Imagine adding 158 miles to your range in just five minutes. Yes, the ET9 makes it possible.
Innovations and Indulgences
Steer-by-wire might sound futuristic, and it is. The ET9 pioneers this technology for Nio, removing any physical connection between the steering wheel and the rack, with inputs and feedback being purely electrical. This collaboration with ZF Group hints at a seamless and intuitive driving experience.
But the innovation doesn’t stop there. The ET9 also features rear-wheel steering and an active suspension with height-adjustable air springs, promising agility and comfort regardless of the terrain.
Nio ET9 Interior – Designed for the Distinguished Passenger
The ET9’s interior is nothing short of a sanctuary. Inspired by private jets, the rear cabin offers reclining seats and an aircraft-style tray table, emphasizing the importance of passenger comfort. With up to 45 degrees of recline, 11 motorized shades, and a noise-cancellation system, it’s clear that Nio designed the ET9 with the luxury-seeker in mind.
Screens Galore: A Digital Playground
Alright, let’s picture this: you hop into the Nio ET9, and bam, it’s like walking into a tech store. Front and center, there’s this huge 15.6-inch touchscreen that pretty much acts as mission control. It’s sleek, it’s shiny, and it puts everything you need right at your fingertips.
And it’s not just the folks in the front who get all the fun. If you’re chilling in the back, you get your own 14.6-inch display hanging right in front of you. Want to watch a movie? Go for it. Stream some music? You got it. Plus, there’s this nifty 8.0-inch control screen between the back seats, making sure you’re in command of your own little domain.
Future-Ready Driving
Now, onto the really cool part: this car sees everything. With three LIDAR arrays keeping an eye on the road, one looking ahead and the others checking out the sides, the ET9’s got your back (and front, and sides). It’s all about making driving safer and smoother, with tech that feels like it’s straight out of a sci-fi movie.
And powering all this? The world’s first 5 nanometer automotive-grade chip, the Shenji NX9031. Yeah, it sounds like a mouthful, but it’s basically the brain behind the brawn, making sure the ET9 can handle whatever the road throws at it. It’s a neat piece of tech trivia to drop at parties, right?
2024 Nio ET9 Price
So, how much for this slice of the future? The ET9’s starting price tag is around $112,000. It’s a pretty penny, but for what you’re getting, it’s like investing in a piece of tomorrow. Preorders are up and running in China, with the first set of keys expected to be handed out in the first quarter of 2025.
