On March 25, a set of uncamouflaged spy photos of the NIO ES9 in “Dawn Gold” exterior color surfaced online. In terms of design, the ES9 follows the styling language of the ES8, but features a significantly larger body. The front overhang is extended, and the space ahead of the A-pillar suggests a sizable front trunk. Uncamouflaged spy photo of the NIO ES9 In addition, the ES9 features prominent chrome trim elements across the front fascia, side profile and rear, marking a departure from NIO’s previously restrained design language. However, these details remain visually cohesive with the vehicle’s large body size. Inside, the ES9 adopts the same rectangular steering wheel design as the ET9. The door panels integrate large speaker units, while the rear side windows are equipped with privacy glass. An electrically deployable side step is also included. William Li, NIO’s founder, chairman and CEO, previously indicated that the ES9 will be the largest SUV in the brand’s lineup. Uncamouflaged spy photo of the NIO ES9 According to MIIT filings, the ES9 measures 5365 × 2029 × 1870 mm, with a wheelbase of 3250 mm. Its overall dimensions exceed those of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and the long-wheelbase Range Rover Vogue, setting a new benchmark for domestic new energy SUVs. Earlier this week, NIO released footage of the ES9 undergoing extreme cold testing in Yakeshi, Inner Mongolia. The test validated ES9’s “SkyRide Intelligent Chassis” system, which integrates steer-by-wire, rear-wheel steering, and fully active suspension, coordinated through a centralized chassis domain controller. In terms of performance, the ES9 is equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, delivering a peak output of 520 kW and a top speed of 220 km/h. It comes standard with a 102 kWh battery pack, offering a CLTC range of 580–620 km. Earlier this month, William Li confirmed that the ES9 technology launch event will take place on April 9, with market launch expected in the second quarter. Based on current specifications, the ES9 is expected to be priced between RMB 500,000 ($72,500) and RMB 700,000 ($101,500). Upon launch, it will compete directly with models such as the Li Auto L9 and Aito M9 in the full-size premium SUV segment.