New spy shots have emerged, suspected to be the first model from Nio’s second brand, codenamed Alps, bringing the model closer to production status.
He Lei, CEO of local automotive media outlet Xchuxing, shared two images on his site’s forum today, claiming that these images depict Alps’ inaugural model.
Reportedly captured during testing in Heihe, Heilongjiang province in northern China, these images offer a clearer view of Alps’ first model compared to previous blurry spy shots, noted He.
See also: Nio’s Sub-brand, Alps, Nears Trial Production Milestone with Launch Anticipated in Late 2024
The camouflaged car features a slogan on the rear window indicating its superiority over Tesla’s Model Y. “These two images have a special slogan in the rear window that shows its attitude of being a full-on benchmark (with the Tesla Model Y),” He wrote in his post.
See also: Nio’s Sub-Brand ‘Alps’ to Introduce Single-Motor Option and Advanced Technology in Upcoming Model
According to He, the new model appears to be larger than the Model Y, suggesting it could be a mid-size or mid-to-large-size SUV.
Nio’s founder, chairman, and CEO William Li hinted at Alps’ competitive pricing compared to the Model Y. In a user communication on March 2 in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, Li suggested that those interested in the Model Y might consider waiting, as Alps’ first model will be priced lower.
Li also mentioned that Alps’ first model will support battery swap, faster charging, and will feature a larger screen.
Alps’ first model, codenamed DOM, is anticipated to be available for purchase in October this year, according to a report by local media outlet 36kr on February 5.
The entire range of Alps models will be developed on Nio’s third-generation technology platform NT 3.0. The DOM model will include a new-generation electric motor developed and produced in-house by Nio, aiming to optimize size and cost, as per the report.
