Nio launches five-seater ES8 to expand premium SUV support

Five-seat ES8 signals Nio’s intention to convert premium buyers who have so far resisted the three-row format Nio has launched the ES8 Five-Seat Edition, a two-row configuration of its flagship premium electric SUV, with deliveries set to begin on July 10, 2026. The Executive Premium model is priced at CN¥382,800 ($57,420) or CN¥274,800. ($41,220) under Nio’s Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) subscription model. Executive Signature starts at CN¥422,800 ($63,420) or CN¥314,800 ($47,220) with BaaS. The five-seat model shares its platform and powertrain architecture with the third-generation three-row ES8, combining a 102 kWh long-range battery with a dual electric drive system on Nio’s 900V high-voltage platform. Claimed CLTC range is 655 km. The five-seater vehicle, which is an average of 260 kg lighter than vehicles in the similar segment, targets both handling performance and energy efficiency. Interior space is at the heart of the offer: with a rear cargo capacity of 1,334 L, which Nio describes as the largest in its premium five-seat SUV class, this model offers 7.05 square meters of usable interior volume. A 230-liter front trunk, 27-speaker sound system and 21.4-inch head-up display complete the cabin features. The smart driving hardware includes 31 sensors and the NX9031, a 5nm automotive-grade chip. “Just as the ES8 helped usher premium large three-row SUVs into the battery electric era, the ES8 Five-Seat Edition will accelerate the transition of premium large five-seat SUVs to battery electric,” Nio Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer William Li said in a statement.