Electric vehicle manufacturer Nio unveils a 7-seater electric SUV equipped with interchangeable batteries and a spacious front trunk (frunk).
The automotive landscape in China is witnessing a significant shift with the arrival of the Nio Onvo L90, a 7-seater electric SUV that promises to redefine the electric vehicle (EV) experience for families and tech enthusiasts.
### Key Features
Equipped with an 85 kWh battery pack, the Onvo L90 boasts a claimed CLTC range of up to 605 km (375 miles) for the single-motor RWD model and approximately 570 km (354 miles) for the AWD version. Real-world EPA estimates suggest a range around 300–330 miles (483–531 km). The Onvo L90 uses NMC or LFP battery chemistry, sourced from reputable suppliers like CATL and BYD.
The Onvo L90's standout feature is its ultra-fast charging and battery swap capabilities. It boasts a 900V SiC-based electrical architecture that supports DC charging at 500 kW, enabling a charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 20 minutes. Nio's unique battery swap ecosystem, with over 2,000 swap stations in China, allows for battery replacement in under 3 minutes.
In terms of performance, the dual-motor AWD version offers up to 598 hp (440 kW), while the single-motor RWD version delivers around 462 hp (340 kW). The Onvo L90 shares powertrain technology with the luxury Nio ET9.
The Onvo L90's design is bold and squared-off, featuring a closed grille, split LED headlights, flush door handles, and a full-width rear light bar spelling out "ONVO". Inside, it is tailored for family use with options for 6 or 7 seats. Premium interior touches include a large 17.2-inch central infotainment touchscreen, trizone climate control, massaging, heated, and ventilated seats for all rows. Entertainment-focused features include an optional rear-seat entertainment screen and a built-in mini refrigerator.
### Competition
The Onvo L90 competes in the mid-to-large family electric SUV class in China, targeting buyers who want a well-equipped, spacious, and high-performance EV at a competitive price (around $27,000 as suggested by some sources). Its key competitors likely include the BYD Tang EV, XPeng G9, Tesla Model Y/Model X, and WM Motor W6.
### Significance in the Market
The Onvo L90’s unique battery swap system and ultra-fast charging combined with competitive pricing provide a significant edge in China's EV market crowded with emerging family SUVs.
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With initial deliveries scheduled to begin in the next three weeks, starting on 1 August, the Onvo L90 is poised to make a significant impact in China's EV market. The Onvo L90's success is crucial for Nio's long-term success in China and key international markets.
The Onvo L90's advanced features and competitive pricing position it as a formidable rival in the Chinese market, particularly against the BYD Tang EV, XPeng G9, Tesla Model Y/Model X, and WM Motor W6. As a tech-savvy family vehicle, the Onvo L90's electric vehicle (EV) experience is enhanced by its premium lifestyle features such as gadgets like a large central infotainment touchscreen, rear-seat entertainment screen, and built-in mini refrigerator.