Nio is preparing to expand its reach beyond its premium lineup with its new Firefly brand, which targets the affordable EV segment. The company already sells several electric vehicles in Europe, including the EL6, ET5, and EL8, and is now bringing Firefly to selected European countries like the Netherlands and Norway. According to the article from CnEVPost, the first Firefly model will launch in the UK in 2026. You can learn more about Nio’s European lineup here.
Table of Contents
About The Firefly
The Firefly is a subcompact hatchback with a rear-motor, rear-wheel-drive layout. Inside, it feels surprisingly spacious, featuring a 92-liter frunk along with a 404-liter rear trunk, expandable to 1,253 liters with the rear seats folded. The focus is clearly on maneuverability, practicality, and approachable design rather than luxury.
Inside, the cabin is light and airy, with a minimalist layout, a 13.2-inch central display, and a 6-inch digital instrument cluster. Premium materials such as vegan leather combined with sustainable microfibre are used throughout. Euro NCAP five-star safety standards are met, reflecting modern EV expectations.
Battery, Range and Power
At the heart of the Firefly sits a 41.2 kWh LFP battery, giving it a 330 km WLTP range. Its electric motor delivers 105 kW (141 hp) with 200 Nm of torque, and accelerates from 0–100 km/h in around 8.1 second.
Charging is supported via 100 kW DC fast charging, capable of going from 10% to 80% in about 29 minutes. It also supports AC charging with either a 7 kW single-phase or 11 kW three-phase onboard charger.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Architecture | 400 V |
| Battery | 41.2 kWh LFP |
| Electric Motor | 105 kW (141 hp), 200 Nm torque |
| Drivetrain | Rear-motor, rear-wheel drive |
| 0–100 km/h | 8.1 seconds |
| Range (WLTP) | 330 km |
| Consumption | 15.2 kWh/100 km |
| DC Fast Charging | 100 kW, 10–80% in ~29 min |
| AC Charging | 7 kW single-phase / 11 kW three-phase |
| Frunk / Rear Trunk | 92 L / 404 L (expandable to 1,253 L) |
| Safety | Euro NCAP 5-star |
Warranty Coverage*
Firefly comes with a comprehensive warranty that aligns with industry standards for new EVs. Buyers can expect a 5-year/150,000 km (90,000 miles) vehicle warranty, covering manufacturing defects and electronics. The battery is usually covered separately for 8 years or 160,000 km (100,000 miles), ensuring peace of mind for long-term ownership.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Warranty | 5 years / 150,000 km |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years / 160,000 km |
| Coverage | Manufacturing defects, electronics, and battery performance |
*Warranty data for the European version. It may differ from the UK model
Price in the UK
The Firefly is currently priced around £26,500 (€30,000) in the Netherlands, but that country is part of the EU and Nio must pay 30.8% tariffs on every EV imported from China. So, since the UK is outside the EU, Nio doesn’t have to pay those import duties — local buyers should be able to snap up the Firefly much cheaper, right? Riiiight.
Historically, Chinese EVs actually cost slightly more in the UK than in many EU countries, even without the EU tariffs. So, prospective buyers should brace themselves: the Firefly’s UK price will likely be at least €30,000, if not higher. The UK market, it seems, remains a convenient cash cow.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Compact yet practical – Spacious interior, 92 L frunk, 404 L rear trunk, expandable to 1,253 L.
- Fast charging support – 100 kW DC fast charging brings 10–80% in ~29 minutes.
- Euro NCAP five-star safety – Modern safety features meet European standards.
- Minimalist, high-quality cabin – Light, airy design with sustainable materials and intuitive displays.
Cons:
- Limited range – 330 km WLTP may be lower than some rivals in the segment.
- UK pricing uncertain – Despite no EU tariffs, UK buyers may still face prices equal to or above £26,500 (€30,000).
- Better options for the same price – there are some really interesting EVs under €30,000.
- Performance modest – 141 hp is adequate for city driving but not sporty.
- Brand recognition – Firefly is a new sub-brand; it may take time to build reputation compared to established competitors like Mini Cooper.
FAQ
Q: When will the Firefly be available in the UK?
A: The first Firefly model is expected to launch in 2026.
Q: What is the range of the Firefly?
A: The Firefly’s 41.2 kWh battery provides a WLTP range of up to 330 km.
Q: How fast can the Firefly charge?
A: DC fast charging (100 kW) allows 10–80% in about 29 minutes. AC charging is supported via 7 kW single-phase or 11 kW three-phase.
Q: Does the Firefly have Euro NCAP safety certification?
A: Yes, it meets Euro NCAP five-star safety standards.
Q: What warranty coverage does Firefly offer?
A: The vehicle comes with a 5-year/100,000 km warranty, with battery coverage of 8 years/150,000 km.
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