China’s Nio is taking on Europe’s best, with its second-generation of mid-size SUVs. The new EL6 follows the ES6, and will challenge the likes of the Mercedes EQC. The new model will help the brand break into the market in a serious way.
Measuring in at 191-inches (4,854 mm) in length and 78.5-inches (1,995 mm) in width, it’s three inches (80 mm) longer and four inches (105 mm) wider than the EQC. Despite its size, and unlike its predecessor, the new model is based on the same platform as the ET5 sedan.
That means that the EL6 is available with a 201 hp (150 kW/204 PS) front induction motor, and a 282 hp (210 kW/285 PS) rear permanent magnet motor, which combine to pump out 483 hp (360 kW/489 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. That’s enough to get the SUV up and moving in a hurry, helping it to accelerate from 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.5 seconds.
Equipped with a 70 kWh battery, the Nio EL6 offers drivers up to 300 miles (483 km) of range. As with other vehicles in the brand’s lineup, the batteries can be removed and replaced at authorized locations, allowing drivers to get a fully charged vehicle in less than three minutes.
It also gets continuous damping control that can make 500 adjustments per second, providing flexible dynamics for great road-holding abilities. The model will also introduce Nio’s new Intelligent Smooth Stop function, which automatically adjust braking force for less jarring stops.
Another advantage of the new platform is more advanced technology. The EL6 offers a heads-up display, intelligent adaptive headlights, and a variety of other safety features. It uses 33 sensing units running on Nio’s ADAM Super Computing hardware.
In terms of older-school luxury, the EL6 has the largest openable sunroof in its class, Nio claims, offering nearly 11 square feet (one square meter) of glass. Meanwhile, occupants are offered up to 22-way adjustable seats with nine layers of supporting materials, and a zero-gravity position for ultimate comfort.
The SUV also gets sustainable materials such as rattan inside, and invisible air vents for added aesthetic appeal. For audiophiles, the EL6 is the first model in which Nio has used tailor-made acoustic fabric in the speakers for even better sound quality.
