NIO Launches Free Power Swap Service Along the Entire G318 Sichuan–Tibet Route

A Decade and Billions Invested, NIO’s Power Swap Network Shows Its Value.

NIO Energy announced that from August 29 to October 12, the G318 Sichuan–Tibet Power Swap Route will provide unlimited free swap services to all NIO and ONVO users (excluding commercial vehicles).

The route was officially completed on August 16, stretching 2,950 km from Chengdu to Tingri County at the foot of Mount Everest. It features 15 power swap stations, averaging one every 200 km, essentially covering all high-frequency energy replenishment needs along the way.

Nationwide, NIO’s energy network has established a unique advantage. As of August 28, NIO has built 3,466 power swap stations across China, including more than 1,000 on expressways. Combined with its self-built charging stations, NIO has deployed a total of 8,187 swap and charging stations nationwide.

Over the past decade, NIO has invested more than 10 billion RMB into its energy infrastructure—a heavy-asset strategy almost unmatched in the industry.

Moreover, NIO’s charging piles are not exclusive to its own users. According to official data, more than 80% of the electricity delivered through its charging network is consumed by vehicles of other brands.

Meanwhile, on the product side, NIO is pushing forward in parallel. The all-new ES8 will begin test drives on September 10, open for pre-configuration on September 12, and officially launch with deliveries starting September 20. Together with the free swap policy on the G318 route, NIO clearly intends to demonstrate the full value of its “vehicle + power swap network” system in real-world scenarios.

A decade of continuous investment has translated into tangible user experience: whether on expressways or in remote regions, charging anxiety is no longer the biggest concern for travelers. This may be exactly what NIO wants to prove—that adding power can be as convenient as refueling.