Thabo Nkosi 
The NIO ES8 is a premium 7-seat electric SUV designed to rival models like the Tesla Model X and Audi e-tron. By 2026, its third generation offers cutting-edge features, including a 900V platform, battery-swapping technology, and a spacious interior. Key highlights include:
- Price Options: Starting at $57,500 or $42,200 with Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS).
- Performance: 0-62 mph in 3.97 seconds, 697 hp, and up to 395 miles of range (102 kWh battery).
- Battery Swapping: Fully charged battery in ~5 minutes via automated stations.
- Interior Comfort: Zero-gravity seats, 15.6-inch AMOLED touchscreen, and 27-speaker Dolby Atmos sound.
- Safety: 5-star Euro NCAP rating, 11 airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems.
- Charging: 600 kW fast charging adds ~155 miles in 5 minutes.
The ES8 combines luxury, advanced tech, and practicality, making it a strong contender for families and businesses. Its ability to handle tough conditions, including rugged terrains, expands its appeal globally, including markets like Africa. With BaaS and battery-swapping stations, it addresses range anxiety while keeping costs competitive.
NIO ES8 Review – Electric Three-Row SUVs DO Work.
Exterior Design and Build
The ES8 boasts a "Shark Nose" front bumper paired with smooth, flowing body lines that stretch from the hood to the tailgate. This design strikes a balance between a commanding presence and surprising maneuverability. With a 41-degree front-wheel steering angle, the ES8 achieves a tight turning radius of just 18.7 feet – similar to what you’d expect from many mid-size sedans. These dimensions work seamlessly with the vehicle’s aerodynamic refinements, which are explored in more detail below.
Aerodynamics and Construction Quality
The ES8’s design isn’t just for show – it plays a key role in boosting performance. NIO’s engineers introduced 122 aerodynamic upgrades in this third-generation model, achieving an impressive drag coefficient of 0.250. Features like flush-mounted side windows, hidden door handles that extend when approached, and an integrated rear wiper tucked into the spoiler all contribute to its sleek, streamlined profile.
The body structure is made from 96.4% aluminum alloy, which not only keeps the vehicle lightweight but also delivers exceptional torsional stiffness of 39,400 N·m/deg. This aluminum-heavy construction gives the ES8 a premium feel often associated with luxury European SUVs. Adding to its durability, the rear structure consolidates 31 individual components into a single casting. This innovative approach enhances strength and crash protection, earning the ES8 a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Beyond its solid build, the design details elevate the vehicle’s overall sophistication and appeal.
Key Exterior Features
The ES8’s "Double-Dash" daytime running lights stand out with their unique crystal design. Meanwhile, the High-Definition Projection Lights can display welcome messages over an area of approximately 540 square feet (50 m²). At the rear, a fletching-style taillight, made up of 600 SuperRed LEDs, ensures excellent visibility in all conditions.
NIO’s AQUILA super-sensing system integrates advanced roof-mounted LiDAR and 8MP cameras into the exterior without disrupting the vehicle’s clean lines. The Smart Matrix LED headlights work in tandem with the LiDAR system, directing light around oncoming vehicles to maintain optimal visibility while avoiding glare for other drivers. Additionally, paint options like Arctic Black feature a 65-micrometer clear coat, adding both depth and protection to the finish.
Performance and Powertrain
NIO ES8 Specifications Comparison Across Three Generations
The third-generation ES8 is built on NIO’s NT 3.0 platform, featuring a 900-volt architecture designed for enhanced driving dynamics. Sharing its foundation with NIO’s flagship ET9 sedan, this platform integrates advanced technology into a family-friendly SUV. Let’s dive into the specifics of its powertrain.
Battery and Motor Options
The ES8 is equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, combining a 180 kW induction motor at the front with a 340 kW permanent magnet motor at the rear. Together, these motors deliver an impressive 520 kW (697 hp) and 700 N·m of torque. This setup not only ensures quick acceleration but also maintains excellent traction across various terrains.
When it comes to battery options, the ES8 offers three choices:
- 75 kWh battery: Provides up to 289 miles (465 km) of range under CLTC testing.
- 102 kWh battery: Extends the range to 395 miles (635 km).
- 150 kWh battery: Delivers up to 559 miles (900 km) on a single charge.
It’s worth noting that CLTC figures are typically higher than real-world results. For instance, the 100 kWh battery achieves 317 miles (510 km) under WLTP standards.
Acceleration and Range Comparison
The 2026 ES8 accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.97 seconds, with a top speed of 137 mph (220 km/h). This marks a noticeable improvement over the previous generation, which clocked in at 4.1 seconds for the same sprint and had a lower top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h). The table below highlights how the ES8 has evolved across its three generations:
| Generation | Model Year | Total Power | Peak Torque | 0-62 mph | Top Speed | Range (CLTC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Gen (Facelift) | 2020–2023 | 536 hp | 535 lb-ft | 4.9 s | 124 mph | Varies |
| Second Gen | 2023–2025 | 653 hp | 627 lb-ft | 4.1 s | 124 mph | 289–559 mi |
| Third Gen | 2026+ | 697 hp | 516 lb-ft | 3.97 s | 137 mph | 395–559 mi |
Stopping power is equally impressive, thanks to 6-piston Brembo calipers, which bring the SUV to a halt from 62 mph in just 112 feet (34.3 meters). Additionally, the ES8 offers 11 driving modes, including Sport+, Sand, Snow, and Trailer mode, making it adaptable to a wide range of conditions without the need for manual adjustments. These upgrades not only enhance performance and range but also improve the ES8’s ability to handle diverse driving environments, including challenging terrains in Africa.
Interior and 7-Passenger Comfort
The 2026 ES8 stands out as NIO’s largest SUV to date, boasting a length of 207.9 inches and a wheelbase of 123.2 inches – 7.1 inches longer than its predecessor. This expanded size ensures ample space for all seven passengers. As Ted Li, NIO’s Vice President of Product, describes it: "With the new ES8, you get a luxury SUV and a business MPV in one".
Seating Configuration and Space
The standard 2+3+2 seating layout offers flexibility and comfort. The front "Lounge Seat" is a 22-way power-adjustable marvel, complete with zero-gravity recline. The second row includes an entertainment screen and vanity mirror, while the third row features heated, power-adjustable backrests. Passengers in the third row can also control climate and entertainment using NOMI, NIO’s in-car AI assistant, thanks to its 6-zone voice control system. For added convenience, the third row folds flat at the touch of a button, creating up to 3,230 liters of storage space – enough for four extra-large suitcases. These thoughtful seating features blend seamlessly with the cabin’s advanced technology and audio systems.
Technology and Infotainment
The ES8’s interior is packed with cutting-edge tech designed to elevate the driving experience. At the heart of the cabin is a 15.6-inch AMOLED touchscreen paired with a 38-inch AR-HUD that projects navigation and vehicle data directly into the driver’s line of sight. Rear passengers enjoy a 21.4-inch mini-LED overhead display, which uses blue-light-free technology for safer, extended viewing. The audio experience is equally impressive, with the NIO LYRA 8.1.4.2 system delivering concert-quality sound through 27 speakers and Dolby Atmos.
Practical features include a smart refrigerator with a temperature range of 28°F to 131°F, 5-zone climate control, and a 1.7 m² dimming glass roof with 4-zone independent control. The cabin’s serene atmosphere is enhanced by 242 acoustic optimizations and 52 m² of soft-touch materials, ensuring a quiet and comfortable ride.
Safety Features Overview
The ES8 has earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, with scores of 82% for adult occupants and 84% for child occupants. Its safety suite is robust, featuring Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning, and other active safety systems. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with 11 airbags and a Smart Restraint System that adjusts seatbelts and airbags based on passenger size and position. These systems underscore the ES8’s commitment to passenger safety.
| Safety Category | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Active Safety | AEB, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Centering, Active Lane Change |
| Sensing Hardware | Advanced sensors to monitor surrounding traffic |
| Passive Safety | 11 airbags (including seat cushion airbags), ultra-high-strength seat frames |
| Structural Safety | High torsional stiffness for enhanced rigidity |
| Child Protection | Child lock system, 84% Euro NCAP child occupant score |
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Driver Assistance Systems
The ES8 is packed with NIO’s AQUILA Super Sensing System, which integrates 31–33 high-performance sensors. These include an ultra-long-range LiDAR, seven 8MP cameras, 4D imaging radar, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, all working together to deliver 350° surround perception. This advanced setup powers NIO Assisted and Intelligent Driving (NAD), which operates through the NIO WorldModel (NWM) technology.
Every ES8 comes with 24 standard driver assistance features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Centering Control (LCC), and Active Lane Change (ALC). Lane Centering ensures the car stays aligned on highways, while Active Lane Change handles lane switches automatically after assessing surrounding traffic. These features form the foundation for additional systems designed to improve parking and overall driving support.
The Advanced Parking Assist (APA) system simplifies parking in tight spots using four 3MP surround-view cameras and ultrasonic sensors. For sharper maneuvers, the EasyTurn system steps in, while the Advanced Driver Monitoring System (ADMS) tracks driver attention to ensure you stay alert when using these assistance tools.
The ES8 also features Smart Matrix LED Headlights, which use LiDAR data to adjust light beams, preventing glare for oncoming drivers while maximizing visibility. This attention to safety contributed to the vehicle earning a 92% score in Euro NCAP’s Safety Assist category. However, NIO emphasizes that the system is strictly for assistance and cannot fully replace driver control or handle every possible traffic, weather, or road condition.
At the heart of the third-generation ES8 is NIO’s NX9031 chip and SkyOS operating system, which centralize smart driving functions and enable Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) connectivity. Additionally, a 16.3-inch Head-Up Display (HUD) projects navigation and key vehicle data directly into your line of sight, ensuring critical information is always within view.
Charging and Battery Technology
Charging Methods and Times
The ES8 offers a range of charging options tailored for both home and public use. For home charging, the NIO Power Home 3.0 smart charger connects to an 11 kW onboard AC charger, making overnight charging straightforward. Depending on the battery size, the 75 kWh unit charges from 10% to 100% in about 3.3–9.6 hours, while the 100 kWh battery takes 6.1–9.6 hours.
When you’re on the go, public DC fast charging provides a much quicker solution. The 75 kWh battery can reach 80% in just 35 minutes with 140 kW power, and the 100 kWh battery achieves the same level in 44 minutes at 126 kW. The 2025 models take things to the next level with a 900V architecture, enabling peak charging speeds of up to 600 kW. This means you can add approximately 155 miles (250 km) of range in only 5 minutes. For international compatibility, the ES8 uses the CCS Combo 2 connector, ensuring it works seamlessly with expanding fast-charging networks, including those in Africa.
NIO also offers innovative solutions like the Power Mobile service, which provides about 62 miles (100 km) of range in just 10 minutes. Meanwhile, the Power Charger 4.0 delivers ultra-fast charging at 640 kW using liquid-cooled cables capable of handling up to 765A.
For those seeking an even faster alternative, NIO’s battery swapping system redefines convenience.
Battery Swapping System
NIO’s battery swapping technology offers a unique and efficient way to recharge. Instead of waiting for a battery to charge, you can swap a depleted one for a fully charged unit in just 3–5 minutes. The process is fully automated: simply initiate the swap via the infotainment screen or app, and the ES8 will maneuver itself into the station, park accurately, and exit once the new battery is installed. By February 26, 2025, NIO had completed over 67 million battery swaps globally.
"Our Power Swap Station at Yas Marina Circuit is more than just cutting-edge technology – it’s like an EV pit-stop, redefining the way we think about charging."
– Roberto Lopes Da Silva, General Manager of NIO UAE
NIO’s Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model makes the ES8 more affordable by reducing its purchase price by around $14,800 (108,000 yuan). Instead of owning the battery, you can lease it through a monthly subscription, giving you the flexibility to choose the battery size that suits your needs. For example, you might opt for a lighter 75 kWh battery for daily commuting and swap to a 150 kWh battery for long-distance trips. During a 1,000 km challenge, the ES8’s battery swapping system matched the travel times of internal combustion engine vehicles and even outperformed Tesla’s fastest models.
The latest Power Swap Station 3.0 can store up to 21 batteries and handle as many as 408 swaps per day. As of August 2025, NIO operates 3,458 swap stations and over 4,715 charging stations across China. Expanding its reach, NIO MENA launched the first swap station in the Middle East at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit in February 2025, marking a significant step into the region. For African markets, this technology could address concerns about range anxiety and unreliable home charging by offering a fast, centralized energy solution. However, its success will depend on the development of dedicated infrastructure.
| Charging Method | Time/Speed | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Power Swap Station | ~3–5 minutes | Fastest option; fully automated; supports battery upgrades |
| DC Fast Charging (900V) | 5 minutes for 155 miles | Ultra-high 600 kW peak power |
| DC Fast Charging (400V) | 35–44 minutes (10–80%) | Compatible with standard CCS networks |
| AC Home Charging | 3.3–9.6 hours | Convenient for overnight charging |
Market Fit for Africa via EV24.africa
Pricing and Financing Options
The ES8 is making its debut in Africa with a starting price of about $58,150 for the six-seat Executive Luxury model, while the Executive Signature trim comes in at around $63,730. For buyers looking for a more budget-friendly option, NIO’s Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model offers a creative solution. By separating the cost of the battery from the vehicle, the starting price drops to approximately $43,080 – saving buyers around $15,070. This pricing places the ES8 in direct competition with mid-range internal combustion SUVs, all while delivering premium electric performance.
Through the EV24.africa platform, buyers across all 54 African countries can access detailed ES8 listings that include clear pricing and financing options tailored to their local markets. The platform’s dealer network currently supports the ES8 in key locations such as Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, with contact points in Accra, Kampala, Nairobi, and Kigali. The BaaS model not only lowers the upfront cost by a significant margin but also makes the ES8 an appealing choice for both individual buyers and commercial fleets looking to make the switch to electric vehicles. This combination of affordability and high-end performance is designed with Africa’s diverse needs in mind.
Performance on African Roads
The ES8 isn’t just about competitive pricing – it’s built to handle Africa’s unique and often challenging road conditions. Its Smart Dual-Chamber Air Suspension with Continuous Damping Control adjusts in real time to road conditions, offering a 25% improvement in body roll and a 40% reduction in pitch angle during braking. For added versatility, the "Easy Pass" mode increases ground clearance, while the "Sand" mode optimizes torque distribution for driving on desert or unpaved roads. With a wading depth of 650 mm and a body made of 90.5% aluminum alloy, the ES8 is well-equipped for everything from flooded streets in urban areas to dusty, uneven rural roads.
Powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, the ES8 delivers an impressive 644 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, ensuring stability and traction even on slippery or uneven terrain. To tackle Africa’s hot climates, the vehicle includes a five-zone climate control system and an "Ice Mode" pre-cooling function to keep passengers comfortable. The battery is also designed to handle tough conditions, with IP68-rated protection against dust and water, and it can be quickly swapped at NIO Power Stations for added convenience.
EV24.africa’s Support for EV Adoption
EV24.africa makes the process of owning an ES8 straightforward and accessible. This marketplace platform combines affordable pricing with high-performance features, helping to drive the adoption of electric vehicles across the continent. The site offers a wealth of resources, including detailed vehicle specifications, transparent pricing comparisons, and expert service support. Buyers can browse both new and pre-owned ES8 models, explore financing options, and even arrange delivery to any of the 54 countries the platform serves.
A robust dealer verification system ensures buyers are connected with trustworthy sellers, while customer reviews and analytics provide valuable insights to guide purchase decisions. For dealerships, EV24.africa offers tools like bulk listing options and premium placement to enhance visibility. This comprehensive approach simplifies the buying experience and helps establish a strong foundation for the growth of electric mobility in Africa.
Conclusion
The ES8 stands out as a flagship SUV that blends practicality, cutting-edge technology, and luxury. With its spacious seven-seat layout and generous cargo capacity, it’s tailor-made for families and group travel. The advanced 900V architecture, paired with battery options of up to 150 kWh, offers an impressive range of around 560 miles. Plus, the 5-minute battery swapping technology effectively addresses range concerns, making long journeys more convenient.
What makes the ES8 particularly suited for African markets is its ability to handle tough conditions. Its dual-chamber air suspension provides 11 driving modes, including settings for sand and wet terrains, ensuring a smooth ride no matter the road. Constructed with 90.5% aluminum alloy, the body offers both durability and resilience, making it ideal for diverse environments. On top of that, advanced safety features ensure passengers are well-protected in all scenarios.
EV24.africa plays a key role in bringing the ES8 to drivers across the continent. With a presence in countries like Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, the platform provides localized support through direct communication channels and physical locations in cities such as Accra and Kampala. Transparent pricing, starting at approximately $43,080 through the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model, along with detailed specifications, flexible financing options, and delivery to all 54 African countries, makes the buying process seamless. Additionally, its dealer verification system and customer reviews ensure secure and reliable transactions, further supporting the shift toward electric mobility.
Blending luxury features like a 23-speaker sound system, five-zone climate control, the AI assistant Nomi, and zero-gravity seating with practical versatility, the ES8 is a strong contender in the premium electric SUV market. Whether for daily urban commutes or rugged adventures, the ES8 offers a well-rounded solution. Backed by EV24.africa’s comprehensive support, it’s a standout choice for families looking for a capable and stylish SUV that’s ready to tackle African roads.
FAQs
How does the NIO ES8’s battery-swapping system work?
The NIO ES8 comes equipped with a battery-swapping system that makes recharging a breeze. Instead of waiting around for a battery to charge, drivers can head to one of NIO’s automated swap stations, where a robotic system takes over. In just about five minutes, the system lifts the vehicle, removes the depleted battery, and replaces it with a fully charged one.
What’s even better? Drivers don’t even have to step out of the car. This setup is all about convenience and speed, offering a hassle-free alternative to traditional charging methods. It’s a game-changer for anyone with a busy schedule who needs to get back on the road quickly.
Why is the NIO ES8 a good fit for African road conditions?
The NIO ES8 is a full-size luxury SUV built to tackle the unique challenges of African roads while ensuring a comfortable and practical driving experience. Its all-wheel-drive system offers strong traction and power, making it a reliable choice for navigating the unpaved or uneven roads often found in rural areas. With an impressive 627 lb-ft of torque, it effortlessly balances performance for both city streets and off-road adventures.
One of its most impressive features is the battery-swap technology, which lets drivers replace a drained battery with a fully charged one in about five minutes. This is a game-changer for areas where charging infrastructure is limited. Paired with its 100 kWh battery, which provides a range of up to 376 miles on a single charge, the ES8 is well-suited for long journeys across expansive regions. Inside, the roomy 7-seat layout ensures plenty of space and comfort for families or groups, making it a dependable and adaptable option for a variety of road conditions.
How does NIO’s Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model impact the cost of owning the ES8?
NIO’s Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model offers a clever way to cut down the upfront cost of the ES8 by separating the battery from the vehicle’s purchase price. For instance, the third-generation ES8 is priced at around $58,050 with the battery included. But if you opt for the BaaS subscription, the starting price drops to roughly $43,000, giving buyers an upfront savings of about $15,000.
Instead of paying for the battery outright, buyers pay a monthly or annual subscription fee. This setup not only reduces the initial cost but also adds flexibility – allowing owners to upgrade to higher-capacity batteries or swap batteries at NIO’s stations whenever needed. It’s a practical way to make the ES8 more accessible while spreading ownership costs into predictable, smaller payments over time.
