Nio Firefly’s first EV model: dimensions and powertrain revealed in China

On January 10, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) exposed the core specs of the Firefly EV as it applied for the sales license. The model measures 4,003 mm in length, it weighs 1,492 kilograms, is powered by a single electric motor with a peak power of 105 kW and is set to be officially launched in April 

Nio has made a regulatory filing for the first model of its sub-brand Firefly, which is expected to go on sale in April. On January 10, China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released its latest catalog of models that will be allowed to be sold for public comment, and Firefly's first model is included. Firefly EV was released at the Nio Day 2024 on December 21, 2024. The car started presales with a price tag of 148,800 yuan ($ 20,300). The model measures 4,003 mm in length, 1,781 mm in width and 1,557 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,615 mm. For clarity, the Firefly EV is 287 mm shorter than the BYD Dolphin for European markets. In terms of size, it stays close to the Renault Sandero. Bearing in mind its compact size, the Firefly EV rides on rather big 215/50 R18 wheels. 

The car’s curb weight is 1,492 kg. The gross weight reaches 1,875 kg. Five people can sit inside the Firefly EV’s cabin. The Firefly EV has a single TZ160S010 electric motor manufactured by Nio Technology. It sits in the rear axle and generates a peak power of 105 kW (141 hp). This e-motor is powered by the swappable lithium iron phosphate LFP battery pack manufactured by Sunwoda, the first time the battery maker has been a supplier to Nio. Previously, Nio Inc's battery suppliers were CATL; BYD and CALB. Firefly EV adopts a five-link independent suspension from Multimatic in the rear axle and the IPB system from Bosch. It has a 50-50 ratio weight distribution between axles and a 225-km WLTP range with a 75% charged battery. Other highlights of the Firefly EV include a 4.7-meter turning radius, a frunk for 92 liters, and a trunk for up to 1,250 liters. The model will be manufactured at No. 299 Baita Road, Economic and Technological Development Zone, Hefei city, Anhui province, where Nio's F2 plant is located. Nio officially launched the Firefly brand to challenge the BMW Mini as well as Mercedes-Benz's Smart with an eye on the global market. The Firefly's first model shares the sub-brand's name and is positioned as a premium small car.