At the 2025 Guangzhou International Auto Show on November 21, William Li, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of NIO Inc., stated that the trend toward pure electric vehicles (EVs) is becoming increasingly evident.

Li explained that product decisions in the automotive industry typically require forecasting trends two to three years in advance. Many competitors opted for extended-range (EREV) solutions two or three years ago, a strategy he finds entirely understandable.

"At that time, EREV technology was at its peak, and large SUVs with extended-range capabilities performed exceptionally well from both operational and business perspectives. However, decisions made then would only materialize in products two or three years later—this is the challenge of the automotive industry," he noted.

Addressing the view that "large-battery EREVs are essentially pure EVs," Li pointed out compromises in design. EREVs sacrifice frunk space, trunk layout, and fuel tank placement to accommodate their transitional role. Despite larger batteries, they still require adjustments for electric-only driving, leading to trade-offs in usable battery range, efficiency, cost, and weight compared to pure EVs.

"This is just my perspective, not necessarily consumers'. Ultimately, the market decides. If large-battery EREVs sell well, they’re proven right," he added. However, Li cited market data showing a 20% growth in pure EV sales in October, while EREV sales declined by 20% during the same period.

Consumer preferences are also shifting toward greater acceptance of pure EV technology. NIO remains committed to aligning with this trend and will continue refining its products and business models based on market feedback.