NIO has officially announced the launch of its third sub-brand, firefly, showcasing its latest model through engaging real-life images. The announcement was made on March 16, 2025, and the vehicle is set to hit the market by April 2025.
The unique design elements of the firefly model are highlighted through its distinctive split headlights, which help differentiate it from others within NIO’s existing lineup. Priced at 148,800 yuan before subsidies, the firefly brand aims to carve out its presence within the burgeoning electric vehicle sector.
Under the artistic direction of co-founder and senior vice president of design, Kris Tomasson, the firefly brand employs fundamental yet classic elements, resulting in features identifiable only to this sub-brand. "The new car will be three-compartment, which means 'three-compartment all-inclusive' and embodies the pursuit of new things," Tomasson stated during the presentation. This three-compartment design resonates with broader consumer preferences, providing functional and aesthetic advantages.
Visually, the vehicle stands out with angular curves and structured features, imbuing it with both modern flair and practicality. The capsule-like shape, alongside rounded corner lines, enhances visual recognition, making it not just another vehicle but rather an emblem of NIO’s innovative spirit.
Impressively, the firefly boasts dimensions of 4003 x 1781 x 1557 mm and has a wheelbase measuring 2615 mm. Its half-turn radius of just 4.7 meters makes it agile and suitable for city driving, allowing easy navigation through tighter urban spaces. Notably, the car is also equipped with advanced auto-parking capabilities, demonstrating NIO's commitment to smart functionality.
Further enhancing its appeal, the firefly features a front trunk with 92 liters of cargo capacity—the largest available within its class. The divider within the trunk allows users to arrange various items systematically, handy for everyday tasks. The trunk is also equipped with power outlets to accommodate various appliances, enhancing the vehicle's versatility.
When the rear seats are folded, users can create more than 1250 liters of almost flat storage space, significantly increasing the practical usability of the firefly. This capability stands as a marked improvement sought after by many urban drivers who prioritize space and functionality.
Powering the firefly is an electric motor rated at 105 kilowatts, providing efficient performance for both urban and extended-range driving. The vehicle will have two versions available: the standard version aimed at city driving with ample range and the extended-range version, catering to longer trips. According to data from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the standard version houses a 42.1 kWh battery, allowing it to reach driving ranges of up to 420 kilometers on one charge, highlighting the vehicle's efficiency.
With its new firefly model, NIO is showing the industry how electric vehicles can integrate sleek design with functional reliability. The company’s forward-thinking innovations maintain its competitive edge and position it as a leader within the electric vehicle market. The anticipated arrival of firefly marks another step forward for NIO as it introduces fresh concepts and expands its customer base.
The launch serves as not only introduction of another model but signals NIO's commitment to paving the way for eco-friendly vehicles embracing both technology and design. The firefly could potentially set trends for electric vehicles moving forward, and NIO’s ever-expanding lineup continues to turn heads within the automotive industry.