Now there is only a one month period for the official public launch of NIO’s new ultra-affordable EV sub-brand, Firefly. But ahead of its launch, recent spy images from China give us our best glimpse yet at the first model under the Firefly brand. The camouflaged prototype showcases a compact and sleek side profile, hinting at its urban-friendly design.
Firefly is NIO’s upcoming boutique sub-brand that is set to specialize in smaller, more affordable EVs, catering to a wider range of consumers. NIO initially unveiled plans for two all-electric sub-brands years ago, sparking anticipation. The first, codenamed “Alps,” officially launched as Onvo, debuting this year with its L60 SUV—a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y. Firefly will soon follow, adding more diversity to NIO’s growing electric vehicle portfolio.
NIO has ramblings it’s third sub brand for EV in addition to Onvo with codenamed “Firefly.” In December 2023, NIO’s president confirmed the additional sub-brand would join Onvo in China in 2024, followed by entry into European market in 2025.
NIO’s co-founder and president, Qin Lihong, has revealed that Firefly EV models will range in price from RMB 100,000 ($13,800) to RMB 200,000 ($27,500), making them highly competitive in the affordable EV segment. While only camouflaged glimpses of the Firefly BEV have surfaced so far, the wait is nearly over. The official unveiling is set for December 21, 2024, during NIO’s tenth annual NIO Day event, marking an exciting milestone for the automaker.
The latest spy images but still in camouflaged offers the first look at Firefly’s flagship EV model, which we learned earlier this month is called the Firefly.
As anticipation builds for the December unveiling of the Firefly EV, new spy images from China offer a clearer view of the upcoming model’s side profile. Shared by car blogger and Weibo user Electric Planet Shin-chan (@电动星球小新), the images showcase a compact design that aligns with Firefly’s vision for smaller, affordable EVs. While details remain under wraps, the sleek silhouette hints at a modern and efficient addition to NIO’s lineup.
Recently, there are more spy photos of NIO Firefly, which will be officially unveiled next month. NIO organized a group of media teachers to see the real car. It is said that the appearance is bolder than the existing models, and the front and rear faces are very recognizable. The overall size of the car is between MINI and (Volkswagen) ID.3.
From images you can see that the Firefly EV from FIREFLY is relatively compact in length yet rather tall, enabling what looks like a spacious interior, especially in terms of headroom. Cargo space may be limited given the short front and rear ends, but the EV appears to have a similar design to a MINI but is larger.
We’ll have to wait until NIO Day 2024, set for December 21, to compare these spy images with the official launch of the Firefly EV. During the event, we expect to learn more about the vehicle’s performance, capabilities, trim levels, and pricing. Stay tuned for a full recap next month as all the details unfold!
