Nio Firefly set to launch brand in Australia

The Nio Firefly premium small car made its public debut at the Shanghai motor show last week and is all but certain to spearhead the brand’s introduction to Australia in 2026.

The retro-styled five-door, five-seat hatch is roughly the same size as a BYD Dolphin, features clever packaging to maximise interior space and is powered by a modest 105kW e-motor that drives the rear wheels.

Its 42kWh lithium-ion (LFP) battery delivers 420km range against China’s CLTC standard – translating to approximately 350km WLTP.

A Nio spokesperson confirmed right-hand drive production for markets including the UK and Australia would start in the wake of the model’s initial rollouts in China and Europe.

“This is a global model,” they told carsales in Shanghai.

“First we launch in China, then Europe – including right-hand drive markets. Australia is a major right-hand-drive market.”

“But the [right-hand drive] cadence is not confirmed with UK, Australia and South Asia.”

Nio CEO William Li confirmed the Firefly will be sold in 16 markets across five continents.

With seven continents on Earth – and Nio having already registered the Nio Firefly name and logo trademarks with Australia’s IP office – the brand’s Australian arrival appears to be a question of when, not if.

Targeting younger buyers with its nostalgic design, quirky interior, extensive connectivity, customisation options and tech features, the Firefly represents a strategic shift for Nio, which until now focussed purely on larger luxury cars and SUVs.

This marks uncharted territory for Nio, with Chinese pricing starting at just ¥119,800 (approximately A$25,000), though European pricing around €30,000 (closer to A$50,000) suggests local pricing will likely be higher.

All variants come generously equipped with 18-inch alloys, distinctive circular triple LED lighting elements, a 14-speaker Dolby Atmos audio system, panoramic glass roof, heated front seats and steering wheel, fragrance diffuser, V2L power-sharing capability, and nine airbags.

Higher-spec models simply add power seats with premium upholstery while price points can be ratcheted up via exterior customisation packages, such as custom grilles, and smartphone-like personalisation options for interior digital displays.

The car-maker’s point of difference in China is a battery swap system for rapid energy replenishment, although it’s understood this service has been a loss-making enterprise for the brand and is unlikely to be rolled out in Europe and Australasia.

Nio is pitched as a rival for Polestar and other premium brands; the brand spokesperson explained that the Firefly has huge potential in mature export markets.

“B-size [compact] vehicles are popular and there’s not many premium options in this space except Mini Cooper EV,” he said.

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