NIO ES8 Third-Generation Iteration Review

[Model Retrospective] The NIO ES8 has undergone three generations of iteration, with total deliveries reaching approximately 210,000 units.

Key Development: The third-generation ES8 large five-seater version launched on July 9

At the ES8’s 8th anniversary delivery ceremony, William Li (Li Bin) announced that reservations for the new model are now open, emphasizing that the ES8 is NIO’s “anchor” vehicle. The first-generation ES8 began deliveries on June 28, 2018, and despite issues such as a 355 km NEDC range and infotainment system bugs, it pioneered China's premium smart electric vehicle segment.

Strategic Foundation: From critical acclaim without commercial success to breakout popularity

The second-generation ES8 received a lukewarm market response, whereas the third generation achieved dual breakthroughs in both product competitiveness and sales volume. Li Tianshu donated the founder’s edition vehicle No. 0001 to the Beijing Auto Museum, symbolizing the brand’s historical legacy. Li Bin stated that the ES8 is the “only smart electric vehicle to have iterated three times,” underscoring its central strategic importance.

Industry Impact: 210,000 users have witnessed NIO’s growth

As the cornerstone of NIO’s sales, the ES8 has accompanied the brand through challenging periods and driven the development of its battery swap ecosystem and the premium electric vehicle market.