NIO’s electric vehicle push continues as the company has unveiled the new ES7.
Designed to slot between the ES6 and ES8, the brand’s latest electric crossover is their fastest to date as well as their first to sport the “Design for AD” philosophy.
Speaking of the latter, the mid-size crossover has an expressive shark nose front fascia that is adorned with “double-dash” LED daytime running lights. Further below, there’s prominent headlights and a sizable intake.
Also Read: NIO’s New ET5 Electric Sedan Rivals Tesla Model 3 And Offers Up To 621 Miles Of Range
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They’re joined by plastic body cladding, flush-mounted door handles, and acoustic laminated glass. The ES7 also sports a sloping roof and “air wing” taillights that help to showcase the model’s width. The latter consist of 202 crystal-cut LED modules that are “individually controlled to compose sophisticated and smooth sweeps resembling flapping wings.”
In terms of size, the ES7 measures 193.4 inches (4,912 mm) long, 78.2 inches (1,987 mm) wide, and 67.7 inches (1,720 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 116.5 inches (2,960 mm). To put those numbers into perspective, the crossover is 6.3 inches (161 mm) longer than the Tesla Model Y and also has a 2.8 inch (70 mm) longer wheelbase. It’s also worth noting the ES7’s wheelbase is nearly on par with the Tesla Model X, despite being significantly shorter overall.
A Stylish, High-Tech Interior Complete With AR Glasses
The interior is billed as a “second living room” and the company isn’t kidding about that as the ES7 has an interesting PanoCinema system. It uses specially developed augmented reality glasses to project a 201-inch ‘screen’ at a distance of 19.7 feet (6 meters).
Elsewhere, there’s a digital instrument cluster, a 12.8-inch AMOLED infotainment system, and a head-up display. The model also has a personal assistant, known as NOMI, which resides on the dash and features digital eyes.
Other notable highlights include a floating center console, karuun rattan wood trim, a Dolby Atmos surround sound system, and a 256-color ambient lighting system. Customers can also opt for “coffee shell tanned Nappa leather,” which is free from traditional chemicals while also sporting a unique “herbal scent.” On the topic of seats, there’s heating, ventilation, and massage up front as well as heated rear seats with a power-adjustable backrest that tilts between 23° and 31°.
A Dual-Motor Powertrain With 644 HP
On the performance front, the ES7 features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that produces a combined maximum output of 644 hp (480 kW / 653 PS) and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque. This enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in as little as 3.9 seconds when in Sport+ mode.
Furthermore, customers will have a choice between three different battery packs. The entry-level 75 kWh unit will deliver 301 miles (485 km) of range, while the 100 kWh Long Range Battery increases the distance to 385 miles (620 km). If that isn’t far enough, the aptly named 150 kWh Ultra-Long Range Battery provides 528 miles (850 km) of stamina.
Besides the impressive powertrain, the ES7 come standard with an air suspension and four-piston Brembo front calipers. The model also boasts adaptive dampers, a 50:50 weight distribution, and up to ten different drive modes.
The ES7 promises to be an ideal camping partner as it can tow 4,409 lbs (2,000 kg) and provide up to 3.3 kW of power for accessories such as a coffee machine, a portable speaker, or a small refrigerator. The model also comes with a Camping Mode, which keeps the climate control system operating so you can enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep in your car.
As you’ve probably noticed, the ES7 is outfitted with 33 sensing units including an ultra-long range LiDAR, seven 8MP high-resolution cameras, four 3MP light-sensitive cameras, five millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors. These support NIO’s latest autonomous driving system, which promises to eventually allow for a “point-to-point autonomous driving experience” on highways as well as in urban areas.
Pricing starts at ¥468,000 ($69,710 / £57,244 / €66,706) for models equipped with the 75 kWh battery, while crossovers with the larger 100 kWh battery will begin at ¥526,000 ($78,349 / £64,333 / €74,973). NIO is currently accepting pre-orders via their app and deliveries are slated to begin on August 28th.
