High-tech electric car that could change how we drive forever

A NEW Chinese electric car brand claims it has a MASSIVE driving range of 621miles on its latest model.

Nio has revealed its zero-emissions ET5 electric sedan with a huge swappable battery, long range and blistering speed.

3

3

Electric cars and their capabilities are advancing rapidly.

And Nio is one of many brands emerging as consumers move away from combustion engines.

The Nio can rocket from 0-60 in just 4.2 seconds.

The ET3’s maximum range — 621miles — dwarfs that of the Tesla Model S, at just 404miles, which is one of the best performing cars on the market.

This is because the battery pack on the Nio is much bigger than others on sale.

The ET5 comes with three battery options, a 75kWh standard range version with a driving range of 342miles, a 100kWh Long Range variant with 435miles of range and a 150kWh Ultralong Range version with up to 621miles of range.

Whereas the top-spec Tesla Model S uses a 100kWh battery and the Porsche Taycan Turbo S has a 93.4kWh battery.

The ET5 comes with two electric motors and all-wheel drive as standard.

The front motor makes 150kW and the rear 210kW – combining to a powerful 360kW/700Nm output.

And it has a swappable battery, which can allegedly be changed in just three minutes.

The battery is designed to be swapped at special stations that are being built in cities.

This removes the need for stopping and waiting for the battery to recharge.

Nio was established in 2014 and is now valued at $44.8 billion despite only selling 43,000 vehicles in 2020.

But as it expands from China into Europe, its sales are expected to grow.

This comes as the world’s best electric cars are set to be revealed at World Car Awards this year.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E, costing from £42,530, is among the favourites to win the eco-friendly motors award.

The prize, in its debut year, aims to to recognise, support and celebrate the global transition to electrically-powered vehicles.

Daniel Schillaci, CEO of the competition’s partner Brembo, said: “Our vision for ‘Turning Energy into Inspiration’ that has enabled us to deliver technological breakthrough and sustainable solutions.

“We feel privileged to play a part in recognising the world’s most exceptional cars, especially the World Electric Vehicle of the Year Award.”

3