Source: MIIT

On June 20, regulatory filings with China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) have offered a glimpse into the next iteration of the ES8, a vehicle built upon the advanced NT3.0 platform.

The NIO ES8 is not just an exterior facelift, but offers significantly enhanced specs and marks start of the transition to the NT3.0 platform for NIO's SUV line.

The front end, for instance, has undergone some changes with sharper lines and revised headlights similar to the flagship NIO ET9.

A thoughtful relocation of the ventilation ducts beneath the headlights contributes to a cleaner aesthetic. Meanwhile, the lower grille's frame now boasts a more distinct and dimensional form, lending the vehicle an even more commanding presence.

Upgraded dimensions all around

Perhaps the most immediately apparent change lies in the vehicle's size. The NT3.0 ES8 stretches to 5,280mm in length, spans 2,010mm in width, and stands 1,800mm tall, with a large wheelbase of 3,130mm.

These figures represent a notable increase when compared to the current NT2.0 ES8 (known as the EL8 in European markets), which measures 5,099mm long, 1,989mm wide, and 1,750mm high, with a wheelbase of 3,070mm.

The new ES8 is 181mm longer than its predecessor, a change that promises both an increase in interior volume and a more substantial road presence.

The incremental increases in width (21mm) and height (50mm), alongside a 60mm longer wheelbase, suggest tangible benefits for passenger comfort and overall vehicle stability.

Source: MIIT

The rear design, too, sees an evolution, maintaining the characteristic full-width taillight but with a more robust and rounded profile.

Drawing from the ET9's design language

The interior of the new ES8 is set to undergo a significant transformation, taking cues from NIO's executive sedan, the ET9.

We can anticipate the integration of advanced features akin to those found in the ET9, such as the SkyOS full-domain vehicle operating system, a highly integrated central computing platform, and a comprehensive suite of smart driving functionalities powered by its in-house NX9031 chip.

The upgraded SUV will likely share ET9’s 14.5-inch 3K OLED central screen and advanced audio systems, as well as the

Triple LiDAR intelligent assisted driving system.

This represents a notable progression from the previous generation's single lidar, promising enhanced environmental perception and a more robust foundation for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

NIO's recent advancements in their "NWM" (NIO World Model) system, encompassing active safety improvements, universal obstacle recognition, and autonomous parking garage navigation, are expected to be fully integrated into the NT3.0 ES8.

Onvo L90’s front trunk

A welcome addition to the new ES8 is the inclusion of a large-capacity front trunk, or "frunk." While not a groundbreaking innovation in the EV industry anymore, a frunk definitely improves practicality and storage versatility.

In fact, NIO’s sub-brand Onvo will be launching a full-size SUV, the Onvo L90, which will feature a massive front trunk, demonstrated at the Shanghai Auto Show this year.

While the actual volume of the NIO ES8 frunk remains undisclosed, the Onvo L60's frunk is said to provide 495 liters of space.

Given the NT3 ES8’s more premium positioning and larger body dimensions than the Onvo L90, which measures 5,145/1,998/1,766mm (length/width/height) with a 3,110mm wheelbase, its frunk likely will be even larger.

Beyond the frunk, the new ES8 will continue to offer flexible interior layouts, with six-seat and seven-seat configurations available to cater to diverse family needs.

Source: MIIT

Customers will also have the option to personalize their vehicle with various wheel rim styles, striking red brake calipers, and a practical roof luggage rack.

Rear motor upgrade

The new ES8 retains its single option of dual-motor system, now offering a maximum power output of 520kW (697 hp) compared to the NT2.0 ES8's 480kW (643 hp) output.

The power distribution sees the front motor maintain its 180kW output, while the rear motor receives an upgrade from 300kW to 340kW.

Source: MIIT

The vehicle will draw its energy from ternary lithium batteries supplied by CATL and will be capable of battery swapping.

The NT3.0 platform's 925V architecture further enables rapid charging, supporting a peak charging power of 600 kW and a peak charging current of 765A.

NIO suggests this can translate to adding 250 km of range in just 5 minutes of charging, or a full charge via battery swap in approximately 3 minutes.