China’s NIO ET9 is a Masterpiece – But Not for Indian Roads

The global EV market is evolving rapidly, and China’s NIO is leading the charge with its groundbreaking electric vehicles. One of its latest innovations, the NIO ET9, is a luxurious, high-performance electric sedan that challenges the dominance of traditional German automakers like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi. Announced at NIO Day 2023, this flagship EV is packed with cutting-edge technology, including 900V fast charging, battery swapping, and advanced autonomous driving.

However, despite its futuristic appeal, the ET9 is not available in India. In this article, we explore its features, why it’s not coming to India, and what alternatives Indian buyers have.

NIO ET9: Specifications & Features

Luxury Meets Performance

• Dimensions: 5,325mm (L) × 2,016mm (W) × 1,620mm (H) | 3,250mm Wheelbase
• Motor Power: Dual-motor AWD system (697 hp total)
• Battery: 120 kWh pack with NIO’s 900V architecture
• Charging: 5-minute charge = 255 km range
• Battery Swap: Full battery change in just 3 minutes
• 0-100 km/h: Expected under 4 seconds
• Tech: Steer-by-wire, rear-wheel steering, and full active suspension for ultra-smooth driving

The ET9’s design combines a sedan’s elegance with an SUV’s space, thanks to its “Landjet” styling. Its massive 23-inch wheels come with Rolls-Royce-inspired self-leveling caps, ensuring the NIO logo always stays upright. The car also features a jet-inspired rear spoiler, enhancing aerodynamics and efficiency.

Why the NIO ET9 Isn’t Available in India

Despite being one of the most technologically advanced EVs in the world, the NIO ET9 is not launching in India anytime soon. Here’s why:

1. High Import Duties

• India imposes 100% import tax on completely built units (CBUs), making luxury EVs like the ET9 extremely expensive.
• The ET9’s starting price in China is ₹90 lakh ($108,000), which could double in India due to taxes.

2. Lack of Battery Swapping Infrastructure

• NIO’s battery-swapping technology is a major selling point, but India lacks the necessary infrastructure for this system.
• Without it, NIO’s core advantage is lost, making their entry less viable.

3. Local Manufacturing Challenges

• NIO has no assembly plant in India, unlike Tesla, which is considering local production.
• Setting up a manufacturing unit requires a huge investment and policy stability.

4. Market Preferences

• Indian buyers prioritize affordable, practical EVs like the Tata Nexon EV.
• The ET9’s ultra-premium positioning means it caters to a niche market.

India’s Alternatives to the NIO ET9

While India doesn’t have a direct competitor to the ET9, some high-end EVs offer premium features:

1. BMW i7 – The closest luxury EV to the ET9

• Price: ₹2 crore+ | Range: 625 km | Tech: Level 2 ADAS, ultra-luxury cabin

2. Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 – German luxury with electric power

• Price: ₹1.59 crore | Range: 857 km | Feature: Burmester sound system, rear-wheel steering

3. Porsche Taycan Turbo S – Performance meets luxury

• Price: ₹2.13 crore | 0-100 km/h: 2.8 sec | Top Speed: 260 km/h

These options provide high-end EV buyers in India with alternatives, though they lack NIO’s battery-swapping tech and 900V fast charging.

Conclusion: Will the NIO ET9 Ever Come to India?

The NIO ET9 represents the future of luxury electric mobility, but its entry into India is unlikely unless:

• Import duties are reduced or NIO considers local assembly.
• Battery-swapping infrastructure develops to support NIO’s ecosystem.
• The Indian market shows greater demand for ultra-premium electric sedans.

For now, Indian buyers can only admire the ET9 from afar. Would you consider buying a NIO ET9 if it came to India? Let us know in the comments!