Full-Line Compatibility Upgrade

On Aug. 9, 2026, NIO founder Li Bin confirmed that NIO will launch a 120 kWh NCM lithium-ion battery pack compatible with the full model lineup. The battery upgrade is an important iteration of NIO's three-electric (battery, motor and electronic control) system, increasing capacity while keeping standard battery pack dimensions, further strengthening range and battery flexibility under the battery-swap model. The battery uses NCM (nickel-cobalt-manganese) chemistry with a capacity of 120 kWh. NCM batteries, whose cathode materials contain nickel, cobalt and manganese, have higher energy density than lithium iron phosphate batteries. Achieving 120 kWh within NIO's standard pack dimensions means its volumetric energy density has reached a leading industry level. In terms of range, using the ET9 as a reference, its 102 kWh battery delivers CLTC range of more than 1,000 km; the 120 kWh version could theoretically support an even longer range. For mid-to-large sedans or SUVs, the 120 kWh NCM battery is expected to push CLTC range above 1,100 km. On charging performance, NIO's NT3.0 platform supports a 900V high-voltage architecture; with 5C fast charging, the 120 kWh battery's peak charging power could exceed 600 kW.

Improved Range and Charging

Battery swapping remains available, and a full swap can be completed in three minutes. In terms of powertrain, using the EC6 as an example, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive system has total power of 360 kW and torque of 700 Nm, with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 4.4 seconds. The 120 kWh battery needs to match high-rate discharge capability to support sustained output from high-power motors. On the technology roadmap, NIO adheres to a chargeable, swappable, upgradeable strategy. The 120 kWh NCM battery is not exclusive to the ET9, but is common across the full lineup, relying on standardized battery pack design. For comparison, mainstream premium BEV models currently have battery capacities mostly in the 100-110 kWh range, giving NIO's 120 kWh NCM battery a differentiation advantage in capacity. In terms of industry trends, solid-state batteries have reached a laboratory-level energy density of 400 Wh/kg, but mass production still needs time. At present, NCM batteries continue to improve performance through higher nickel content and structural optimization; the 120 kWh pack is a milestone for the liquid-electrolyte lithium battery system.