Flash: NIO Day May Be Rescheduled to Spring

Today, NIO Radio’s “Da Kou Shuo” (Speak Freely) program released a new episode featuring an interview with NIO President Qin Lihong. In this discussion, Qin revealed multiple technological advancements and strategic adjustments at NIO, covering areas such as intelligent driving, chip development, product planning, and marketing strategy.

Below is a summary of the key points from this audio program.

World Model Launched

NIO officially launched its World Model based on the second-generation Banyan platform, receiving enthusiastic user feedback. This model is not a one-time release but represents a new technical roadmap and will undergo continuous iteration and upgrades.

• Third-Gen Platform Adaptation: The Song OS version based on the NX9031 chip will launch slightly later to align with the chip’s mass production schedule. However, it offers higher computing power redundancy and a significantly raised performance ceiling.
• Computing Power Unleashed: The value of the four Orin-X chips became evident after the World Model release, with features set to progressively strengthen. NIO emphasized that the single NX9031 chip already rivals the performance of four Orin-X chips, demonstrating significant technological leadership.

NX9031 Chip & Third-Gen Platform

NIO’s third-generation platform technology is entering a phase of intensive rollout, with multiple achievements to be delivered this year:

• ET9: Positioned as a “decade-long project” report card, integrating core technologies like the 900V high-voltage system and intelligent chassis.
• Product Line Expansion: The refreshed ET5/ET5T and ES6/EC6 have been upgraded to the Song platform (intelligent systems part), with performance significantly enhanced by the NX9031 chip. The ONVO L90 (6/7-seater) and L80 (large 5-seater), plus the third-gen platform ES8, will launch in H2 2025. The flagship SUV ES9 will follow in H1 2026.
• Cost Reduction & Efficiency: The NX9031 chip reduces cost per vehicle by over 10,000 yuan ($1,392.28), with technological innovation becoming the core driver for cost optimization.

Marketing Strategy Upgrade

Reflecting on the second-gen products being “too reserved,” NIO’s third-gen platform will focus more on visibly showcasing technology:

• Product Self-Demonstration: The ET9’s intelligent chassis showcasing performance via its “dancing” function; ONVO L60’s 52L front trunk (“giant freezer”) highlighting the high-voltage platform advantage.
• Precise User Demand Matching: New models employ a “free optional feature” strategy (like the AC charging port) to efficiently match inventory with orders, achieving an in-stock vehicle match rate exceeding 90%.

NIO Day Timing Under Consideration

NIO is considering adjusting the timing of NIO Day (traditionally held in December) to resolve the misalignment between new product launches and deliveries:

• Current Conflict: Winter launches cause product hype to fade after the Spring Festival, requiring re-heating.
• Adjustment Direction: Potentially moving to Spring to achieve “launch-to-delivery,” while expanding city selection (e.g., northern cities). NIO is soliciting user opinions publicly, emphasizing a “change when needed” flexible attitude.

NIO’s relevant teams have been discussing this issue for several months, with a solution expected to be announced as early as June.