Use the links below to jump to a section, or continue reading for the full article. You can also view the full specifications, image gallery, charging performance, and online reviews. Sections:
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.
The lithium-ion battery uses NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry.
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 (4.1 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. A 0–100% charge takes approximately 66 minutes. A typical 10–80% session takes about 35 minutes at an average power of 85 kW.
With five minutes of overhead per stop, the optimal charging window is 7–74%. Effective average power, including overhead, is 75 kW over a session lasting 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.
The lithium-ion battery uses NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry.
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 (4.1 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. A 0–100% charge takes approximately 84 minutes. A typical 10–80% session takes about 44 minutes at an average power of 85 kW.
With five minutes of overhead per stop, the optimal charging window is 7–72%. Effective average power, including overhead, is 78 kW over a session lasting 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 AC charging at up to 11 kW. A full 0–100% charge takes about 6 hours and 24 minutes with a suitable home charging 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.
An induction motor powers the front axle, while a permanent-magnet synchronous motor powers the rear axle.
Suspension
The Nio ES8 (GEN1) features a double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, both with electronically controlled dampers and air springs.
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). It adjusts the steering ratio according to vehicle 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, choosing between three levels.
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 SUV segment.
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. 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 reduce energy consumption and can increase range, while wider wheels can improve traction and handling.
The car has four regular doors and a liftgate.
The power liftgate includes hands-free opening by foot gesture 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 behind the B-pillar are tinted for privacy and to reduce glare and solar heat gain.
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 standard seat offers:
- Fore-and-aft adjustment (electrically adjustable)
- Recline adjustment (electrically adjustable)
- Height adjustment (electrically adjustable)
- Seat cushion angle adjustment (electrically adjustable)
- Height adjustable headrest
- Heating
- Memory
- Ventilation
- Massage
- Leg support for passenger (standard for passenger seat)
- Footrest for passenger (standard for passenger seat)
Available in:
Nio ES8 (GEN1)
Second-Row Seats
Seat option standard is a three-seat bench with a 60:40 split; each section can be folded separately to increase cargo space.
Additional second-row features include:
Seat option standard has two captain's chairs.
Additional second-row features include:
- Fore-and-aft adjustment (manually adjustable)
- Recline adjustment (manually adjustable)
- Height adjustable headrest
- Heating (optional)
- Leg support for passenger (standard for passenger seat)
- Footrest for passenger (standard for passenger seat)
- ISOFIX
Third Row Seats
The third row has a two-seat bench with a 50:50 split. The seats fold down to increase cargo space when not in use.
Interior Storage
The Nio ES8 (GEN1) has the following interior storage:
- Door Pockets: The front and rear doors include integrated storage pockets.
Interior Lighting
The Nio ES8 (GEN1) offers several interior lighting options.
- en interior.light.ambient.multicolor.doorpanels.roof
Climate System
There is one climate system available:
- 3-zone climate system: Supports different temperatures in three zones for the driver, passenger, and backseat.
A heat pump is available as an option and can reduce the energy needed to heat the cabin in cold weather.
Comfort Features
The Nio ES8 (GEN1) includes the following comfort features:
- Air Fragrance: Releases scent into the cabin through the ventilation system.
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:
- en uicontrols.screen.info.BehindSteeringWheelOnDash.
- 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 adjusts for tilt and reach. The adjustment is electrically powered.
The standard easy-entry function retracts the steering wheel automatically when entering or exiting the vehicle.
Design: Circular flat-bottom
Controls: Physical buttons, Scroll wheels
Heating: Heated (standard)
From the steering wheel you can control:
- Media Controls: Steering-wheel controls provide access to audio and media functions.
- 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.
- Drive Mode Selector: A dedicated control allows you to switch between different drive modes.
- 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
en infotainment.os.NIO OS
Navigation System
The built-in navigation system uses detailed maps and offers advanced route planning. It provides real-time traffic information to support 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.
Sound System
You can choose between two sound systems for the Nio ES8 (GEN1):
- Surroundsystem: Features seven speakers.
- Premium sound system: Features 12 speakers.
The model includes USB-A connectivity as standard (total: 3).
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: Check the current location of your car.
- Preconditioning: Preheat or cool your car before you start your journey.
- Remote Parking: Park or exit a parking space remotely from the app.
- Lock and unlock: Lock or unlock the doors remotely.
- Scheduled Charging: Set a charging schedule.
- Charge Target: Set the battery's target state of charge.
- Find your car: Sound the horn or flash the lights to locate the car.
- 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 LED technology and 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). It prevents the wheels from locking during braking.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1). It improves stability during sudden maneuvers and on slippery roads.
Lane-Keeping Assist (LKA): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1). It applies steering corrections if the vehicle begins to leave its lane.
The Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to leave its lane.
Front Cross Traffic Assist (FCTA): Optional on the Nio ES8 (GEN1). It detects traffic crossing ahead when entering an intersection or pulling away from a stop.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1). It detects vehicles approaching from the side while reversing out of a parking space or driveway.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Optional on the Nio ES8 (GEN1). It warns the driver of a potential frontal collision.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1). It applies the brakes automatically if the driver does not respond to an imminent collision.
Automatic Emergency Steering (AES): Optional on the Nio ES8 (GEN1). The system can steer automatically to help avoid an imminent collision.
Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM): Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1). It detects traffic in the vehicle's blind spots.
Exit Warning: Standard on the Nio ES8 (GEN1). It warns occupants not to open a door when it detects approaching traffic or another hazard.
Driving Automation
The Nio ES8 (GEN1) offers driving automation at levels 1 or 2, depending on the equipment level.
The Level 1 NIO Pilot Selected Pack system provides the following driving automation features.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Automatic parking (optional)
The optional NIO Pilot Complete Pack SAE Level 2 system adds the following features:
- Lane Centering Assist (LCA) / AutoSteer: Centers the vehicle in its lane and adjusts speed in traffic. The driver must keep their hands on the steering wheel and remain attentive.
- Navigation-guided driving: Follows the planned route, including highway entry and exit.
Sensors & Cameras
This model uses cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors for its driver assist systems.
Up to five radar sensors, six cameras, and 12 ultrasonic sensors monitor the vehicle’s surroundings.
Safety
The Nio ES8 (GEN1) is equipped with the following airbags:
- 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) includes the following security and access features:
- Keyless Entry and Start: Unlock and start the car with the key in your pocket or bag.
- Phone-as-Key Functionality: Use your smartphone as a digital key to unlock and start the vehicle.
- Alarm System: Monitors for unauthorized entry or tampering and sounds the alarm when triggered.
- Parking Surveillance: Uses the vehicle's cameras to monitor its surroundings while parked.
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).
The maximum roof load is 100 kg (220.5 lb).
Optional roof rails are available for easy mounting of a roof box or rack.
The maximum permitted vehicle weight is 3099 kg (6832 lbs), and the base curb weight is 2440 kg (5379 lbs). This leaves a payload of 659 kg (1453 lbs), including occupants. Options can increase curb weight and reduce payload.
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.