New mid-sized ET5 electric sedan from Chinese brand NIO will take on the Tesla Model 3.
Chinese electric car brand NIO has unveiled its new ET5 mid-size sedan online, the second of three models based on NIO’s Technology Platform 2.0 following the larger ET7 saloon.
Although not yet confirmed, the third vehicle could either be an MPV or a sports car, while the ET5 expands NIO’s model range to five models.
Making its debut at the brand’s annual NIO Day event, the ET5 offers battery options that include packs of 75kWh for a claimed range that exceeds 550km, 100kWh for a claimed range of more than 700km and a 150kWh option that will exceed 1000km on a full charge.
It’s not yet known if the 150kWh model will use a solid-state battery, but the predicted range figures for all models are based on the Chinese test cycle, so expect the predicted ranges to drop slightly once homologated through WLTP testing.
The ET5’s styling is reminiscent of the larger ET7 – the brand’s only other sedan – with narrow LED running lights and a smooth look from the front. The front bumper features air curtain inlets that help channel air down the side of the car and reduce drag, along with the car’s flush door handles.
At 4790mm long and with a 2888mm wheelbase, the 5’s more compact proportions mean the arching roof (which features a full-length glass panel) is more pronounced, but it tapers aggressively towards the rear, kicking up on the boot lid with a gentle ducktail spoiler that sits above a full-width LED light bar, spanning the boot and the rear wings.
Based on NIO’s next-generation platform, which features a five-link rear suspension set-up, the ET5 features all-wheel drive with a 150kW electric motor mounted on the front axle and a 207kW motor on the rear axle, delivering a total of 359kW and 700Nm of torque for a claimed 0-100km/h time of 4.3 seconds. The ET5 also features in-house developed four-piston performance brake calipers.
Inside, the ET5 boasts a minimalist design, with a 10.2-inch digital driver display joined by a 12.8-inch central touchscreen – 5G connectivity features, along with tech such as NIO’s PanoCinema digital cockpit, full digital key technology and 19 safety and advanced driver assistance systems, according to the brand.
The ET5 will be available in nine exterior colours with six different interior themes. Nappa leather trim and ventilated, massage seats will be available as options.
NIO confirmed the ET5 features ultra-long-range, high resolution LIDAR sensors as part of its driver assistance tech to boost its autonomous driving capability.
The ET5 75kWh model will be priced from 328,000 RMB (AUD$72,000) in China before any subsidies, while the 100kWh car will go on sale for 386,000 RMB (AUD$84,000). Nio will sell cars in right-hand drive but is yet to confirm Australia.
Sean Carson