SHANGHAI: Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Nio is set to launch its new compact model, the Firefly, in Europe during the third quarter of 2025, company President Qin Lihong confirmed on 22 April 2025.
The announcement comes amid Nio’s ongoing push into global markets, although its expansion in Europe has faced unexpected hurdles. Speaking ahead of the Shanghai Auto Show, CEO William Li acknowledged that the company had underestimated the complexities involved in scaling its sales and service network across the continent.
Despite those challenges, Nio remains committed to establishing a strong European presence, with the Firefly EV positioned as an affordable entry-level model aimed at urban drivers. The launch is expected to help Nio compete more aggressively with established European automakers and rising local EV players.
The company’s strategic move highlights the growing competition in the global EV market, as Chinese manufacturers look to expand their footprint beyond domestic borders amid increasing international demand for sustainable mobility solutions.
