Nio Inc (NYSE: NIO) has officially launched the configurator for their highly anticipated third-generation ES8 SUV, allowing Chinese consumers to secure early orders for the model. The electric vehicle (EV) maker made the announcement today on its mobile app, inviting customers to start customizing their ES8 preferences.
The new ES8 configurator offers a variety of options for customers to choose from, including exterior colors, interior color schemes, and wheel rim styles. Nio recommends opting for the six-seat Executive Signature Edition, which features premium upgrades such as intelligent high-definition projection headlights, smart dimming privacy glass, and 22-inch forged alloy wheels with high-performance four-piston orange calipers.
In addition to the configurator, Nio is also promoting the Battery as a Service (BaaS) plan for the new ES8. The BaaS plan allows customers to rent the battery for a monthly fee, reducing the upfront purchase cost and overall ownership expenses. Nio emphasizes that only after continuously renting the battery for 8 years would the total cost exceed the full vehicle purchase price, making it a cost-effective option for those looking for more flexibility in cash flow or frequent vehicle upgrades.
The third-generation ES8 comes with a standard 100-kWh battery pack, with pre-sales pricing starting at RMB 416,800. However, under the BaaS plan, the starting price is reduced to RMB 308,800. Nio advises customers to consider their long-term ownership goals when choosing between purchasing the entire vehicle or opting for the BaaS plan.
With the official launch of the ES8 set for Nio Day 2025 on September 20, customers are encouraged to lock in their configurations early to reduce hesitation when placing orders. Nio founder and CEO, William Li, recently shared on Weibo that stores have been bustling with test drive requests for the new ES8, with some locations extending closing times to accommodate the high demand.
Nio Day 2025 will take place in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, with the main event scheduled from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm Beijing time. Following the official price announcement during the event, the third-generation ES8 will begin accepting orders around 10:00 pm that night. Customers can expect a seamless ordering process and a range of customization options to tailor their ES8 to their preferences.
Overall, Nio’s focus on early configuration locking and the BaaS plan aims to provide customers with a personalized and cost-effective ownership experience for the all-new ES8 SUV. As the official launch date approaches, anticipation is building for the next chapter in Nio’s innovative EV lineup.
