KATHMANDU: Nio has begun production of right-hand drive models under its Firefly sub-brand, marking a key step in its push into global markets. The first batch is headed to Singapore, with more RHD countries to follow.
Firefly has moved quickly since its launch on April 19. It delivered its first European units in August and has already reached the Netherlands, Norway, and Belgium. Test drives and deliveries in several more European countries will begin soon.
The Firefly is a pure electric compact car priced between 16,800 to 17,600 USD in China. It offers a 92-litre front trunk and over 1,250 liters of flat cargo space with the rear seats folded. The body uses 83.4 percent high-strength steel and aluminum alloy, supported by dual front anti-collision beams, dual door beams, and nine airbags.
Inside, the model features a raised central armrest and a through-type front layout for easier movement between seats. It includes a drawer under the cup holders, a 50W wireless fast charger, and a magnetic anchor system for accessories.
The vehicle measures 4003mm in length, 1781mm in width, and 1557mm in height with a 2615mm wheelbase. It runs on a 42 kWh battery that delivers a 420 km CLTC range. A 105 kW rear motor provides 200 Nm of torque and a top speed of 150 km/h.
Nio is planning to expand its Firefly model in markets with lower tariffs on Chinese EVs. CEO Daniel Jin told Reuters that Singapore will be the first target, followed by Thailand and the UK in 2026.
The company is also in discussions with distributors in Australia, New Zealand, and other Southeast Asian countries.
Nio expects steady sales growth as it expands into new regions, CEO Daniel Jin told Reuters, emphasizing the importance of building trust in emerging markets. The company faces pressure to improve profitability amid increasing domestic competition.
Lower-priced models, including the Onvo and Firefly, helped Nio achieve a record 40,397 units sold last month.
In Singapore, Firefly will be positioned as a boutique compact EV, priced above rivals like the BYD Dolphin to avoid aggressive price competition. Jin stressed that the model must not be viewed as “just another made-in-China EV.”
Firefly was launched in December 2024 and has sold 26,242 units in China as of October 2025. Designed for global appeal, Firefly targets the compact segment, which accounts for 17 percent of global sales.
NIO, the Chinese EV maker founded in 2014, has a confirmed dealership in Nepal under the Vishal Group. The brand was expected to arrive only after right-hand-drive models were ready. With Nio’s Firefly RHD now in production, NIO could enter the Nepali market earlier than planned.
