Next EV, the Chinese electric car start-up which is racing in Formula E, has launched a new sub-brand and production model in London today (Monday 21st November).
Badged the NIO EP9, the new hyper-EV produces 1 MW of power – equivalent to 1,341 bhp – can complete the 0-62mph sprint in 2.7 seconds and reach a top speed of more than 190 mph, with claims of being the world’s fastest EV.
Next EV also claims that the EP9 has set a new record for an EV at the famous Nurburgring Nordschleife, setting a time of seven minutes and five seconds.
Highly efficient aerodynamics reduce drag, while a three position rear wing and under-floor diffuser help the NIO supposedly achieve twice the downforce of an F1 car. The body is built from carbon fibre like many other hypercars.
Details of the car’s batteries are set to be confirmed, though initial information claims a charge time of 45 minutes, or a battery change time of eight minutes for the 777 V system. This system is connected to four motors – one in-board each wheel – to give the car four-wheel drive.
As you would expect from such a high-tech car, the interior’s displays and controls are almost completely digital, creating a minimalist, racing feel to the cabin.
The production run is strictly limited to six models, with all of them accounted for. However, the whole point of the EP9’s existence is to act as a halo model, to gain attention and help get the new company’s name in the public domain.
The reason for this is because NIO is looking to produce other – more accessible mass production – cars, looking to lead the way in electric and autonomous vehicles.
