The environmental harm caused by the combustion engine is myriad and well known. The solution has long been viewed as the electric vehicle and whilst the manufacturing of the vehicles - including their batteries, may still cause its own environmental damage, the future direction of travel for the automotive industry is undoubtedly electric powered. 

The ability to continue innovating in the industry will help iron out the creases in electric vehicles and lead to the development of vehicles that are entirely environmentally friendly. With that in mind, NIO - a global smart electric vehicle company, is playing a key role in continuing to push the button on the design and development of electric vehicles.  

As with any industry looking to stage a considerable operational transition, the need for rapid progress in the evolution of these vehicles is an ever-present issue due to the devastating consequences of the climate emergency.  

Despite good intentions, the development of electric vehicles will need to become more affordable and attractive to the global population and this is where NIO is excelling. One of the company’s latest models - the ES8, is the flagship smart electric SUV and a perfect family vehicle.

The design and eye-catching design of one of their vehicles is accompanied by the company’s cutting edge NIO Power Swap solution. The solution is equipped with extensive networks for battery swap facilities. Its offering enables the user to keep their electric vehicle on the road be that from home or when they are travelling. 

The desire from NIO to cater for their users long after they have purchased their NIO vehicle is what sets them apart in the electric vehicle market. Through their NIO Houses- that are situated across China and Europe, the company has generated a real sense of community through bringing NIO users together. The NIO House.  represents far more than your average auto dealer showroom. They contain a NIO cafe, library and relaxation spaces for adults and children. This is further enhanced by the addition of conference rooms, which users have utilised to help launch start-ups and hold or attend events.

As with any global company, the desire to expand and move into different territories is never far away. The company has had an R&D centre in San Jose, United States since 2015 and there are active discussions as to when they will formally enter the US market, but due to the global geopolitical situation it will not be a decision that is taken lightly. However, the fact that global American brands already conduct business in China gives NIO hope that they will be able to offer their services in the country at some point in the future.   

The future will require the electrification of cars if complete climate breakdown is to be averted. It is a focus that is now occupying a lot of time at NIO. To play their part - and despite initially specialising in premium products, NIO will bring entry-level vehicles to market, as the world continues to push towards a more sustainable future.  

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