Nio Inc is set to start building a new battery research and development base in Shanghai in the second half of 2026, further strengthening its dual-platform strategy of “manufacturing in Anhui, R&D in Shanghai.” The facility will focus on next-generation battery technologies and marks a significant step in Nio’s ongoing expansion of its research capabilities.
New Battery R&D Base in Jiading
Nio’s upcoming battery research and development base will be located in Shanghai’s Jiading district, where the company has maintained its global R&D headquarters for mass-produced vehicles for over a decade. The project, which was confirmed by a WeChat account affiliated with the Jiading district government, will focus on the development of next-generation power batteries.
Once completed, the facility will include 31 lithium battery testing laboratories, a lithium-ion cell pilot line, and a battery pack line. Nio has already established multiple testing centers in Jiading, with a combined floor area exceeding 60,000 square meters.
Focus on Advanced Battery Technologies
The new Shanghai battery company, Nio Battery Technology (Shanghai) Co, was registered earlier this year with a capital of $14.7M (~AUD 21.2M). The company will prioritize research into advanced battery technologies, including solid-state batteries. Nio is collaborating with various companies and research institutions to explore different technology paths, such as oxide and sulfide solid-state batteries.
This initiative follows a cooperation agreement signed in March 2026 between Nio and the government of Jiading’s Anting town to establish the battery R&D base. The move is part of Nio’s broader strategy to strengthen in-house R&D while consolidating its external supply chain.
Nio’s Battery and Supply Chain Strategy
Nio’s battery strategy has evolved in recent years. In late 2023, the company reportedly planned to spin off its battery manufacturing unit, outsourcing production but retaining core technology R&D. In January 2026, Nio signed a five-year agreement with CATL (HKEX: 3750) to deepen their strategic cooperation, further consolidating its supply chain.
Nio ES9 Achieves Sales Milestones
Nio’s flagship SUV, the ES9, has reached several sales milestones since its official launch on May 27, 2026. Deliveries began on May 28, and by July 5, more than 1,000 units had been delivered in Shanghai, making it the first city in China to reach this level for the ES9.
On June 26, the 10,000th ES9 was delivered in Hefei, Anhui, just 30 days after the model went on sale. This set a new record for the fastest delivery of a premium all-electric vehicle in the 500,000-yuan class to break 10,000 units in China’s passenger vehicle market.
The ES9 also led sales in Shanghai’s 500,000-yuan-class all-electric vehicle market in May, capturing more than 50% market share in just four days.
Nio’s Recent Delivery Performance
In June 2026, Nio delivered 40,597 vehicles, marking a 62.9% increase year-on-year. For the first half of 2026, total deliveries reached 191,123 vehicles, up 67.4% compared to the same period last year.
Why this matters
Nio’s investment in a new battery R&D base in Shanghai highlights the company’s commitment to advancing battery technology and maintaining a competitive edge in the EV market. The focus on next-generation batteries, including solid-state technology, positions Nio to address future demands for higher performance and safety.
The rapid sales growth of the ES9 and Nio’s strong delivery numbers in 2026 further demonstrate the company’s momentum in China’s premium electric vehicle segment.
What this means for buyers
For buyers, Nio’s continued investment in battery technology and its strong sales performance suggest increasing product reliability and innovation. The ES9’s rapid delivery milestones and market leadership in Shanghai indicate robust demand and growing consumer confidence in Nio’s offerings.
Prospective customers can expect ongoing improvements in battery performance and technology as Nio expands its R&D capabilities.
Key Specs
- Nio ES9 Launch Date: May 27, 2026
- Nio ES9 Starting Price (with battery): $73,392 (~AUD 105,805)
- Nio ES9 Starting Price (BaaS plan): $57,476 (~AUD 82,860)
- ES9 Deliveries in Shanghai (as of July 5, 2026): Over 1,000 units
- ES9 10,000th Delivery in China: June 26, 2026
- Nio Vehicles Delivered in June 2026: 40,597
- Nio Vehicles Delivered in H1 2026: 191,123
- Battery R&D Base Facilities: 31 testing labs, 1 pilot line, 1 pack line
Source
Images sourced from: cnevpost.com, arenaev.com
