world-economy

Nio Stock Jumps 9% on ES9 SUV Launch with Aggressive Pricing Strategy

Nio's shares rallied Wednesday following the official launch of its ES9 SUV flagship at 390,000 yuan with battery-as-a-service pricing. Deliveries commence Thursday. The Beijing-based automaker is aggressively competing in China's crowded premium EV segment, where prices have compressed significantly. Nio's prior flagship ET9 sedan launched at 800,000 yuan in late 2023, but faced immediate pressure when rival Xiaomi entered the market with vehicles starting at 215,900 yuan in early 2025. CEO William Li highlighted advanced driver-assistance technology and luxury amenities including passenger tables and in-vehicle tea brewing systems. The company enlisted high-profile endorsers, including CATL battery chief Robin Zeng, whose firm reported approximately 2,000 employees have purchased Nio vehicles. The ES9 is positioned as China's largest SUV.