Chinese language automaker Nio has unveiled the primary automotive from its new Europe-bound Firefly model, which can deal with small price range electrical automobiles.

Dubbed the “small good high-end electrical automotive”, the EV – at present recognized solely as Firefly – is positioned as a competitor to the BYD Dolphin and Renault 5 within the rising electrical hatch section.

It would initially launch within the model’s residence market in April, with a European launch following quickly after – though Nio has but to formally verify a date. Firefly might observe Nio’s Onvo L60 by being supplied within the UK first as a result of, not like the EU, it does not apply import tariffs to Chinese language-built EVs.

Costs in China begin from the equal of £16,000; whereas it is prone to price extra within the UK and Europe, it might nonetheless be one of many least expensive EVs available on the market.

The automotive is designed to face out from rivals, design director Kris Tomasson mentioned, with a “distinctive” three-circle headlight and taillight design. “All good issues are available threes,” mentioned the American, previously of BMW and Ford.

Elsewhere, Firefly, like rivals within the class, has brief overhangs and a barely raked roofline to maximise vary. Particulars on trim ranges are nonetheless underneath wraps, however photos present the automotive providing a leather-clad inside (just like the Sensible #1) centered round a central display screen. Electrically adjustable seats can even be supplied, photos present. It additionally will get blind spot cameras.

Commenting on the design, Tomasson mentioned: “We began with one thing that was easy however iconic: a firefly. Firefly is small, electrical and buzzing with power and utterly enchanting. It turned the muse of our design DNA.”

Elsewhere, Firefly has a whopping split-level 92-litre frunk, one of many largest any automotive in any class affords; for comparability, that is 5 liters greater than Tesla affords within the Mannequin 3. Plus, it has a drainage function which suggests, Nio chairman William Li jokingly proclaimed, that fish may even be saved in it. Rear boot area has but to be confirmed, however might rise to 1250 liters with the rear seats folded. With seats up, anticipate it to be just like the 5’s 277 litres.