China’s Nio is taking on Europe’s best, with its second-generation of mid-size SUVs. The new EL6 follows the ES6, and will challenge the likes of the Mercedes EQC. The new model will help the brand break into the market in a serious way. Measuring in at 4,854 mm in length and 1,995 mm in width, it’s 80 mm longer and 105 mm wider than the EQC. Despite its size, and unlike its predecessor, the new model is based on the same platform as the ET5 sedan.
That means that the EL6 is available with
a 201 hp front induction motor, and a 282 hp rear permanent magnet motor, which combine to pump out 483 hp and 700 Nm of torque. That’s enough to get the SUV up and moving in
a hurry, helping it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds.
Equipped with a 70 kWh battery, the Nio EL6 offers drivers up to 483
km of range. As with other vehicles in the brand’s lineup, the batteries can
be removed and replaced at authorized locations, allowing drivers to get a
fully charged vehicle in less than three minutes.
It also gets continuous damping control
that can make 500 adjustments per second, providing flexible dynamics for great
road-holding abilities. The model will also introduce Nio’s new Intelligent
Smooth Stop function, which automatically adjust braking force for less jarring
stops. Another advantage of the new platform is more advanced technology. The
EL6 offers a heads-up display, intelligent adaptive headlights, and a variety
of other safety features. It uses 33 sensing units running on Nio’s ADAM Super
Computing hardware.
In terms of older-school luxury, the EL6
has the largest openable sunroof in its class, Nio claims, offering nearly 11
square feet (one square meter) of glass. Meanwhile, occupants are offered up to
22-way adjustable seats with nine layers of supporting materials, and a
zero-gravity position for ultimate comfort. The SUV also gets sustainable materials
such as rattan inside, and invisible air vents for added aesthetic appeal. For
audiophiles, the EL6 is the first model in which Nio has used tailor-made
acoustic fabric in the speakers for even better sound quality.
The automaker plans to offer the new EL6
in Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands. Prices have not been
revealed yet.
