Following its highly anticipated release in China last month, the second-generation Nio ES6 has finally arrived in various European markets. However, due to an ongoing trademark legal battle with Audi, the innovative electric vehicle will be rebranded as the Nio EL6 for European customers.
The Nio EL6 is set to captivate the German, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian markets, offering enthusiasts the choice to either purchase the vehicle outright or opt for a convenient monthly subscription program.
Embodying the essence of a smart and versatile all-electric SUV, the EL6 displays a subtle evolution in its design compared to its predecessor. The mid-size electric SUV maintains a similar footprint, with only slight adjustments in width and height.
With dimensions measuring 191.1 inches (4,854 millimeters) in length, 78.5 inches (1,995 mm) in width, and 67 inches (1,703 mm) in height, the EL6 boasts a wheelbase of 114.7 inches (2,915 mm). Noteworthy styling updates include new vertically stacked round headlights, taillights connected by a sleek light bar, redesigned bumpers, and the incorporation of LiDAR and front-view cameras on the vehicle’s roof.
Step inside the EL6, and you’ll find a double-layer dashboard layout that remains consistent with its predecessor. However, the dashboard has been refined to appear slimmer, featuring concealed air vents and an updated central infotainment system and driver displays. The infotainment system operates on Nio’s cutting-edge Banyan OS.
The steering wheel receives a fresh design, while the front seats have been enhanced with 20-way adjustment for the driver and an impressive 22-way adjustment for the front passenger. Additionally, the EL6 boasts an expansive openable sunroof, which Nio proudly claims to be the largest in its segment, covering an area of nearly one square meter (10.7 square feet).
One of the standout features of the upgraded EL6 is the passenger Lounge Seat. It offers a comfortable zero-gravity position, reclining mode, adjustable leg rest, ventilation, an eight-point massage system, and three-zone heating for the seat cushion, back, and leg rests. Furthermore, the Lounge Seat has the ability to rotate up to 160 degrees.
The cabin showcases new materials, including sustainable rattan trim on the dashboard and tailor-made acoustic fabric on the speakers, adding a touch of sophistication to the interior.
When it comes to practicality, the Nio EL6 boasts flexible storage space. The three-layer trunk offers a maximum volume of 23.6 cubic feet (668 liters). Furthermore, the rear seats can be folded down in a 40/20/40 layout, expanding the storage capacity to an impressive 50.5 cubic feet (1,430 liters).
While the exterior design may bear similarities to its predecessor, the Nio EL6 is an entirely revamped vehicle under the surface. Similar to the Chinese version, the EL6 is built on Nio’s advanced NT 2.0 platform and comes standard with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive electric powertrain.
The powertrain consists of a front induction motor generating 201 horsepower (150 kilowatts) and a rear permanent magnet motor delivering 210 kilowatts (282 horsepower). This configuration results in a total power output of 360 kilowatts (483 horsepower) and a combined torque of 516 pound-feet (700 Newton-meters).
Thanks to this impressive setup, the Nio EL6 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 kph) in a remarkable 4.5 seconds. The EL6 is equipped with a standard 75-kilowatt-hour battery pack, while customers also have the option to upgrade to a 100-kWh battery. The latter enables an impressive WLTP range of up to 328 miles (529 kilometers).
In terms of technological prowess, the EL6 comes equipped with the Nio Aquila Super Sensing system, which incorporates 33 high-performance sensing units. Additionally, the vehicle features the Nio Adam Super Computing system, which integrates four Nvidia Drive Orin X chips, boasting an exceptional computing power of 1,016 TOPS.
With regards to pricing, the Nio EL6 starts at $71,700 (65,500 euros) in Germany for the 75-kWh model, while the 100-kWh variant is priced at $81,500 (74,500 euros). Nio’s latest offering is set to make waves in the European market, providing discerning customers with an exceptional electric driving experience coupled with cutting-edge features and technology.