Nio unveils Onvo L90 SUV

Nio’s more affordable Onvo sub-brand has unveiled its second model at the Shanghai motor show, with the large all-electric Onvo L90 potentially representing a more affordable alternative to the Volvo EX90 or Kia EV9.

Set to sit above the Tesla Model Y-rivalling L60, the new Onvo L90 is based on parent Nio’s NT3.0 platform, which signals it will come equipped with the Chinese premium brand’s most advanced tech when deliveries begin in China in the third quarter of this year.

Featuring a boxy and more upright design compared to the sportier L60, the L90 gains the firm’s shark nose and split headlamps, with the upper elements wrapped around the leading edge of the bonnet.

Beneath that snub-nosed bonnet is a huge frunk that offers up to 240 litres of storage.

Other unusual highlights are the frameless doors and hidden B- and C-pillars, which are said to provide a more upmarket appearance.

Measuring in at 5145mm long, 1998mm wide and standing 1786mm tall, with a long 3110mm wheelbase, the Onvo L90 is 130mm longer, 18mm wider and 6mm taller than the Kia EV9.

From launch both RWD and AWD formats will be available, with the single-motor version getting a rear-mounted 340kW motor, and the all-wheel-drive variants pumping out 440kW.

Featuring double wishbone front suspension and a sophisticated multi-link rear, the L90 should be among the best large SUVs to drive, with air springs further enhancing the ride.

Meanwhile its potent 900V electrical systems will see a 10 to 80 per cent top-up take less than 18 minutes.

The big Onvo will also come with Nio’s 144-second battery swap capability, which is already in operation in China and is offered in limited locations in Europe.

Exact timings for the Onvo L90 launch are yet to be confirmed other than it will land in the brand’s Chinese dealers from the third quarter of 2025.

A third model, the L80, will be launched later this year.

Nio’s launch Down Under is believed to be linked with arrival of the Onvo nameplate in the right-hand-drive UK market, but the jury’s out on whether it will touch down this year.

To help pave the way the brand has already filed trademarks with IP Australia. The premium brand is likely to launch first with its state-of-the art Onvo L60, which is expected to undercut the Tesla Model Y while offering a range of up to 1000km and an ultra-fast 0-80 per cent top-up time of around 15 minutes.

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