Nio ES8 (GEN1)

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MY2020, MY2021, MY2022, MY2023
Last modified: May 06, 2026

Nio ES8 (GEN1) is an all-electric SUV offering a WLTP range of up to 460 km (286 miles). EVKX.net has all the details you need.

Nio ES8 (GEN1)

We've organized this article into specific sections for easier navigation. Click the links below to jump to different areas or read on for the full article. Additionally, we offer an overview of the full specifications, an image gallery, detailed information about charging performance, and some online reviews. Our sections include:

Performance

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) delivers a maximum power of 400 kW (544 hp / 536 bhp) and a total torque of 725 Nm (535 lb-ft). It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 4.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph).

Battery, Range, and Charging

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) is available with two battery options, each offering different specifications and performance metrics.

75kWh

The battery has a gross capacity of 75.0 kWh and a net usable capacity of 70.5 kWh, with a 4.5 kWh buffer (6.0%) for battery protection. With a nominal voltage of 386 volts, the system is classified as a 400-volt battery system, aligning with industry standards.

This Lithium-Ion battery utilizes NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) technology.

According to the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) standard, the vehicle's range is 460 km (286 miles), with an energy consumption rate of 15.3 kWh/100 km (3 mi/kWh).

For more details about the range, see real-world data and range listings on this model’s range and consumption page.

The vehicle supports fast DC charging with a maximum power of 120 kW. Charging from 0% to 100% takes approximately 66 minutes, while a typical 10% to 80% charge takes about 35 minutes with an average charging speed of 85 kW.

Considering an additional 5 minutes for each charging stop due to driving interruptions, the optimal charging range is from 7% to 74%. This results in an effective charging speed, including time lost, of 75 kW, with each charging session taking about 38 minutes and 39 seconds.

In a 1000 km challenge at a constant speed of 120 km/h (75 mph) with an assumed consumption rate of 30 kWh/100 km, the trip would take about 11 hours and 25 minutes, needing five charging stops from 7% to 73%, totaling 185 minutes of charging time.

100kWh

The battery has a gross capacity of 100.0 kWh and a net usable capacity of 90.0 kWh, with a 10.0 kWh buffer (10.0%) for battery protection. With a nominal voltage of 358 volts, the system is classified as a 400-volt battery system, aligning with industry standards.

This Lithium-Ion battery utilizes NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) technology.

According to the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) standard, the vehicle's range is 350 km (218 miles), with an energy consumption rate of 15.3 kWh/100 km (3 mi/kWh).

For more details about the range, see real-world data and range listings on this model’s range and consumption page.

The vehicle supports fast DC charging with a maximum power of 120 kW. Charging from 0% to 100% takes approximately 84 minutes, while a typical 10% to 80% charge takes about 44 minutes with an average charging speed of 85 kW.

Considering an additional 5 minutes for each charging stop due to driving interruptions, the optimal charging range is from 7% to 72%. This results in an effective charging speed, including time lost, of 78 kW, with each charging session taking about 45 minutes and 15 seconds.

In a 1000 km challenge at a constant speed of 120 km/h (75 mph) with an assumed consumption rate of 30 kWh/100 km, the trip would take about 11 hours and 4 minutes, needing four charging stops from 8% to 67%, totaling 165 minutes of charging time.

Onboard Charger

The standard onboard charger supports up to 11 kW for Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging, allowing a full 0–100% charge in about 6 hours and 24 minutes with a standard home setup.

Charge Port

The charge port is conveniently located on the right front side, facilitating easy access at charging stations where you park parallel to the charger.

Connector types vary by market: this model uses CCS Combo 1 in North America and CCS Combo 2 in Europe. For complete specifications for all markets, refer to the full specifications.

Bidirectional Charging

This model supports V2L (Vehicle to Load), allowing you to power electrical equipment requiring up to 3300 kW of power, and even charge other electric vehicles.

Drivetrain

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) features an all-wheel drive system powered by two motors, one on each axle.

The motors used are Induction Motors at the front axle and Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors at the rear axle.

Suspension

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) features a double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, both equipped with electronically controlled dampers and air springs for enhanced ride quality and adaptability.

The suspension is fully adaptive on the front and rear axle, so height and damping can be adjusted manually and automatically.

The minimum ground clearance is 111 mm, and the maximum is 161 mm.

The Easy Entry function raises the car's body automatically when a door is opened, facilitating easier entry and exit. Once the door closes, the body returns to its previous level.

For easier loading, you can lower the air suspension from the rear

Steering

Progressive steering is standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), automatically adjusting the steering ratio based on speed.

Drive Modes

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) lets the user select different drive modes that affect the car's handling.

The driver can choose between 5 modes:

  • Sport+: Dynamic steering, low ride height, and dynamic throttle and suspension damping, and low lift-up regen.
  • Sport: Balanced steering, low ride height, and balanced throttle and suspension damping, and low lift-up regen.
  • Comfort: Balanced steering, low ride height, and comfort suspension damping, and low lift-up regen.
  • ECO: Balanced steering, normal ride height, and comfort suspension damping, and medium lift-up regen.
  • Custom: Custom steering, suspension damping, and throttle, and custom lift-up regen.

Brakes

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) is equipped with cast-iron disc brakes on both the front and rear.

Regenerative Braking

Automatic regeneration is not available in this model. However, regenerative braking is available through one-pedal driving combined with blended brakes.

At low speeds, the one-pedal drive mode will keep the car creeping forward.

Drivers can also adjust the regenerative braking strength when lifting off the accelerator. There are three levels of regenerative braking to choose from, allowing you to customize the driving experience to your preference.

Exterior

The Nio ES8 (GEN1), with dimensions of 5022 mm in length, 1962 mm in width, and 1756 mm in height, falls into the Full-size SUVs offer the most space, power, and capability among SUV categories, making them suitable for a specific set of drivers with unique needs

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) is available in a total of 5 solid paint colors.

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) offers multiple wheel options in different sizes, allowing you to customize your vehicle to suit your style and driving preferences. The available tire and wheel combinations include:

  • 265/55 tires on 19" rims
  • 265/50 tires on 20" rims
  • 265/45 tires on 21" rims

Narrower wheels improve consumption and provide a longer range, while wider wheels offer better traction and handling.

The car has four regular doors and a liftgate.

The liftgate is electric-powered and has a kick-sensor as standard.

There is only one roof option for this model.

The standard roof has a large panoramic roof extending from the front to the rear. This glass creates a more spacious and bright interior. It has an electric curtain that occupants can use to protect against the sun.

The windows from the B-pillar and back are tinted, which enhances privacy and reduces glare and heat from the sun, making the interior more comfortable for passengers.

Nio ES8 (GEN1)

Interior

Seats

Nio ES8 (GEN1) is available in a six or seven-seat layout for added versatility.

First Row Seats

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) offers a single type of front seat.

The following functionalities are available on the standard seat:

Available in:

Nio ES8 (GEN1)

Second Row Seat

The standard option is a three-seat bench with a 60:40 split where you can fold each section separately to increase the cargo space.

Additional functionalities include:

  • Heating (optional for outer seats)
  • ISOFIX (standard for outer seats)

The standard option is two captain chairs.

Additional functionalities include:

Third Row Seats

The third row has a two-seat bench with a 50:50 split. Again, you can fold down the seats when not used to create a larger cargo capacity.

Interior Storage

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) has the following interior storage:

Interior Lighting

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) offers several interior lighting options.

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Climate System

There is one climate system available:

  • 3-zone climate system: Supports different temperatures in three zones for the driver, passenger, and backseat.

This model has a heat pump as an option. This heat pump can save significant energy used for heating in cold weather.

Comfort Features

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) includes several features to enhance comfort and convenience:

User Interface and Control

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) features a screen-focused control interface with limited physical buttons and no stalks, providing a minimalist approach to vehicle controls. This design prioritizes touchscreen interaction, which may appeal to tech-savvy users but could be less intuitive for those accustomed to traditional controls.

This model features a dual-screen layout, separating key driver information from infotainment and vehicle controls for a more structured user experience.

Key screen details:

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  • A touchscreen is located on the center console.

An optional head-up display projects key driving information such as speed and navigation cues onto the windshield.

Nio ES8 (GEN1)

Steering Wheel

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) is equipped with a single type of steering wheel:

The steering wheel is adjustable for both tilt and telescope. The adjustment is electrically powered.

The steering wheel has an easy-entry function that retracts automatically to make getting in and out of the car easier.

Design: Circular flat-bottom

Controls: Physical buttons, Scroll wheels

Heating: Heated (standard)

From the steering wheel you can control:

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  • **Phone Controls:** Buttons on the steering wheel allow you to answer, end, and manage phone calls.
  • **Voice Control:** A button on the steering wheel activates the voice control system.
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  • **Cruise Control:** A stalk or button on the steering wheel allows you to set and adjust the cruise control speed.

Mirrors

Both the exterior and interior mirrors use conventional mirror technology to provide a clear view of the area behind the vehicle.

This model has an optional voice control system. The voice control lets you control some functionality through voice commands.

Infotainment

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Navigation System

The built-in navigation system uses detailed maps and offers advanced route planning. The system provides real-time traffic information ensuring an efficient and stress-free journey.

App Store

The infotainment system includes an App Store where you can download third-party apps to run natively on the car's screen without needing a connected phone. Available apps vary by market but include popular options such as:

Sound System

You can choose between two sound systems for the Nio ES8 (GEN1):

  • Surroundsystem: Features seven speakers.
  • Premium sound system: Features en 12 speakers.

The model has 3 USB-A connections as standard.

Mobile App

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) has a mobile app for Android and iOS to manage and monitor the vehicle remotely. Features:

  • Locate Your Vehicle: Easily check the current location of your car.
  • Preconditioning: Preheat or cool your car before you start your journey for optimal comfort.
  • Remote Parking: Park or exit a parking space remotely from the app.
  • Lock & Unlock: Securely lock or unlock your car doors with a tap.
  • Scheduled Charging: Plan and schedule charging sessions ahead of your trips.
  • Adjust Charging Target: Set your desired State of Charge to start or stop charging as needed.
  • Find Your Car: Trigger the horn or lights to help find your car in crowded areas.
  • Route Planning: Plan your route and send it directly to your car's navigation system.
  • Driving History: Review the details of your past trips.

Lights

Standard Headlights: These use advanced LED technology, providing bright and efficient illumination. For enhanced safety, the headlights also include corner lights that illuminate the side when turning.

The taillights use LED technology.

Nio ES8 (GEN1)

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) offers standard and optional advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Safety Systems

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this system prevents the wheels from locking during braking.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this system improves the vehicle's stability and handling during sudden maneuvers or on slippery road conditions.

Lane-Keeping Assist (LKA): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this system helps prevent the vehicle from drifting out of its lane.
It also includes a Lane Departure Warning system to alert the driver if the vehicle veers out of the lane.

Front Cross Traffic Assist (FCTA): Optional on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this system helps detect oncoming traffic when crossing an intersection or turning from a stopped position.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this system uses sensors to detect approaching vehicles from the side when backing out of a parking space or driveway.

Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Optional on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this driver assist system helps drivers avoid or mitigate frontal collisions.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this system autonomously applies the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision if the driver does not react in time.

Automatic Emergency Steering (AES): Optional on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this system assists in avoiding collisions by automatically steering the vehicle in an emergency.

Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this system helps detect traffic in blind spots.

Exit Warning: Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1), this system alerts occupants against opening a door if there is a risk of hitting an oncoming object or person.

Driving Automation

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) offers driving automation at levels 1 or 2, depending on the equipment level.

With the NIO Pilot Selected Pack level 1 system, you get the following driving automation features.

With the optional NIO Pilot Complete Pack level 2 system, you get additional driving automation features to the ones listed above:

  • Lane Centering Assist (LCA) /AutoSteer: keeps the car in your lane and slows down if needed in traffic. The system limits how long you can drive without touching the steering wheel.
  • Advanced cruise control that follows the navigation route, including entering and exiting highways to reach the destination.

Sensors & Cameras

This model uses cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors for its driver assist systems.

Up to five radar sensors, six cameras, and en 12 ultrasonic sensors monitor the vehicle’s surroundings.

Safety

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) is equipped with multiple airbags to ensure occupant protection in the event of a collision. The airbag system includes:

  • Front airbags for the driver and front passenger
  • Side curtain airbags for both the first and second rows
  • Side airbags for the driver and front passenger

Security and Access Technologies

The Nio ES8 (GEN1) is equipped with advanced security features to protect you and your vehicle. These include:

  • Keyless Entry and Start: Unlock and start the car with the key in your pocket or bag.
  • Phone-as-Key Functionality: With phone-as-key technology, you can use your smartphone as a digital key to unlock and start the vehicle, providing an additional layer of convenience and flexibility.
  • Alarm System: An integrated alarm system monitors for unauthorized entry or tampering, providing alerts to help deter intrusions and keep your vehicle secure.
  • Parking Surveillance: Using its suite of cameras, the vehicle actively monitors the surroundings while parked, offering enhanced protection through continuous surveillance.

Cargo Capacity and Towing Ability

The trunk offers a cargo capacity of 310 liters (10.9 CU FT). With the rear seat folded down, this expands to 1901 liters (67.1 CU FT).

On the roof, you can load up to 100 kg (220.5 lbs).

Optional roof rails are available for easy mounting of a roof box or rack.

The vehicle’s maximum weight is 3099 kg (6832 lbs), with a base weight of 2440 kg (5379 lbs). This allows for a maximum load of 659 kg (1453 lbs), including the driver and passengers. Note that some options may increase the base weight and reduce the maximum loading capacity.

A towbar can be added to the vehicle. The maximum permissible weight for a braked trailer is 1500 kg (3307 lbs), while for an unbraked trailer, it is 750 kg (1653 lbs).

Availability & Pricing

This model had a world premiere on 12/28/2019, and deliveries started in April 2020. This model has now been discontinued.

More information

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