Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker Nio is expected to supply battery packs for British automaker McLaren’s future hybrid models, local media outlet Yiou reported on Friday, citing sources familiar with the matter.
According to the report, Nio will develop battery packs based on its in-house 4680 large cylindrical cells, with small-scale production planned to begin in 2025. A sample battery pack is expected to be delivered to McLaren next month.
The collaboration comes as both Nio and McLaren share a common investor, CYVN Holdings, an Abu Dhabi government fund. CYVN became Nio’s largest shareholder in 2023 after investing $3.3 billion and acquiring a 20.1% stake. The fund also announced plans last year to acquire full ownership of McLaren’s automotive business.
In addition to the McLaren project, Nio is reportedly resuming development of other battery technologies, including the 46105 cylindrical cell and a 120-kWh battery pack in cooperation with Forseven, a British EV startup also backed by CYVN. Mass production may be handled by manufacturers such as Eve Energy or Foxconn, the report said.
Nio is also working with battery supplier CATL to develop an 85-kWh pack based on a 900-volt architecture, intended for the company’s third-generation platform and models under both the Nio and Onvo brands.
Nio began building its battery research and development capabilities in 2020. However, the team was significantly scaled back in 2023 amid challenging market conditions. The company’s renewed efforts follow increased investment from major shareholders and an emphasis on in-house battery technologies.