Nio, a leading electric vehicle (EV) maker, is set to revolutionize the automotive industry by accepting orders from other automakers after spinning off its chip business. This bold move comes in the wake of a recent report by local media outlet Cailian, which revealed that Nio’s chip team will transition from operating as a business unit to becoming an independent project entity named Anhui Shengji Technology Co Ltd.
According to the report, Nio plans to bring in strategic investors for its chip-related business, selling a small stake while maintaining control over the project entity. This strategic decision underscores Nio’s commitment to innovation and collaboration within the industry. The company’s founder, chairman, and CEO, William Li, has previously stated that Nio’s chips and operating system are open to the entire industry, welcoming peers to leverage their technology.
The independent project entity, Anhui Shengji Technology Co Ltd, was officially registered on June 17, with Nio vice president Bai Jian serving as its legal representative. Bai, who joined Nio in November 2020, brings a wealth of experience to the chip unit and smart hardware operations. Under his leadership, Nio launched its in-house developed smart driving chip, Shenji NX9031, in December 2023.
The Shenji NX9031 chip has already been integrated into Nio’s latest models, including the ET9 and updated versions of the ET5, ES6, and EC6. This cutting-edge technology showcases Nio’s commitment to delivering high-performance and innovative solutions to its customers. In a recent interview, William Li emphasized the quality and reliability of Nio’s chips, positioning the company as a premier supplier in the industry.
While Nio continues to push the boundaries of EV technology, its domestic peer, Xpeng, has also made significant strides in chip development. Xpeng recently launched its Turing AI smart driving chip, which is open to the entire industry. This collaborative approach underscores the industry’s shift towards innovation and partnership.
As Nio and Xpeng pave the way for the future of automotive technology, investors are closely watching their progress. The decision to spin off the chip business and accept orders from other automakers signals a new era of collaboration and innovation in the EV industry. With a focus on cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships, Nio is poised to lead the charge towards a more sustainable and connected automotive ecosystem.
