Fresh details about the Firefly EV, the first model under Nio’s new global electric car subsidiary Firefly, have surfaced from its registration application in China.
The compact five-seater measures 4,003 mm in length, 1,781 mm in width, and 1,557 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,615 mm and a kerb weight of 1,492 kilograms. The vehicle’s electric motor, developed by Nio subsidiary XPT, delivers 105 kW of power, enabling a top speed of 150 km/h.
The Firefly EV features a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by Sunwoda, marking the first collaboration between the two companies. While the exact capacity of the battery remains undisclosed, its design emphasizes cost-efficiency, aligning with the Firefly’s positioning as an affordable electric vehicle.
Sunwoda is known for supplying batteries to other budget EVs, such as the Dacia Spring. This partnership represents a departure from Nio’s usual reliance on CATL, BYD, and CALB for its mid-range and premium vehicles.
In China, new vehicles must undergo mandatory publication in an official catalogue for consumer review before approval for sale. The Firefly EV’s inclusion in this catalogue, under the identifier NAL7000BSEVY1, confirms that it supports battery swapping technology.
However, due to its smaller size compared to Nio’s and Onvo’s vehicles, the Firefly will require a dedicated battery swap system and infrastructure, details of which are yet to be revealed.
Nio introduced the Firefly brand and its debut model at Nio Day 2024, aiming to create an affordable EV for global markets. Despite being a low-cost model, the Firefly EV integrates Nio’s hallmark technology, including quick battery replacement. As the vehicle moves closer to its launch, its focus on affordability, innovation, and efficiency is expected to position it competitively in the compact EV segment.
