Firefly to Launch in Europe in Q3, Right-Hand Drive Version Expected in Oct
- Max
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
On the eve of the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, NIO held a media conference for overseas media, confirming that its sub-brand Firefly will officially enter the European market between June and August this year.
Originally slated for the first half of the year, the launch timeline has been delayed. NIO explained that the adjustment is primarily due to the progress of establishing its overseas sales and service network.
Despite the revised schedule, NIO co-founder Qin Lihong emphasized that the company’s overall international expansion strategy remains unchanged.
Firefly will still roll out gradually across several European countries—including Germany, France, and Spain—in the second half of 2025. Starting in October, right-hand drive versions will also be introduced to serve markets such as the UK and Singapore, with the brand set to enter a total of 16 countries across five continents.
Positioned as a premium compact car built for the global market, Firefly has already launched in China with a starting price of RMB 119,800 (approximately €14,400). This five-door hatchback is built on NIO’s latest technology platform and stands out in terms of space, energy efficiency, and smart features. It is also the first small car to support battery swapping.
Unlike before, NIO has clarified that the Fireflies will not use separate battery swap stations in China, but will instead connect to NIO's 5-Gen battery swap platform to improve resource efficiency and reduce redundant infrastructure investment.
As for whether the containerized battery swap station model will be adopted overseas, NIO has not yet made a clear statement. However, in a previous media Q&A session, Daniel, the President of Fireflies, stated that the containerized battery swap solution has been fully worked out, including the coordination with the stations.
At the Shanghai Auto Show, Firefly will be showcased alongside NIO and ONVO brands, representing the most affordable offering among NIO’s three-tier brand lineup.