Nio has launched its first battery swap station in the United Arab Emirates, marking its entry into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The facility, located at Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, is aimed at enhancing charging convenience for EV users traveling between Emirates, the company said in a statement.
The Yas Island site is Nio’s 3,189th battery swap station globally and aligns with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, which prioritizes investment in sustainable and innovative transport solutions, the company noted.
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“The launch of Nio’s Power Swap Station in the UAE signifies a transformative step in the evolution of electric mobility in the region,” said Mohammed Maktari, CEO of Nio MENA. “With our first station in Abu Dhabi, we are introducing cutting-edge technology that aligns with the UAE’s bold vision to develop renewable energy solutions and a robust, innovative infrastructure.”
The facility is Nio’s third-generation battery swap station, capable of holding 21 batteries and performing up to 408 swaps per day. Unlike traditional charging stations, the system allows users to exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones within minutes, reducing downtime compared to fast charging, the company said.
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“By combining speed, convenience, and innovation, we’re making it easier than ever for users to embrace electric mobility without compromise,” said Roberto Lopes Da Silva, General Manager of Nio UAE.
Nio’s swap stations are designed to optimize battery lifespan by using controlled charging currents and can also contribute to grid stability by participating in peak regulation. The stations allow for modular disassembly, facilitating battery recycling and reuse, the company added.
The automaker said UAE-based users will receive complimentary battery swap services for the first three years of ownership, with the option to extend access for up to five years from the date of vehicle registration. Pricing for battery swap and full charging services is set at AED 119 ($32) for a 100-kWh battery pack and AED 99 for a 75-kWh pack.
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To date, Nio has completed more than 67 million battery swaps for over 680,000 users worldwide. The company first announced plans for global expansion in May 2021 and inaugurated its first overseas Nio House in Norway on October 1 of the same year.