A strategic partnership
Nio announced that former NBA star Yao Ming will assume the role of chief experience officer for its forthcoming ES9 sport‑utility vehicle, a move designed to harness his worldwide recognition and cultural bridge‑building abilities.
The ES9 is scheduled to be unveiled at 7:30 p.m. Beijing time on Wednesday, May 27, marking the culmination of a pre‑sale period that began on April 9, when the model entered the market with a starting price of 528,000 yuan.
During the launch event, Nio will showcase the newest iteration of its Nio World Model, a smart driving assistance system powered by the 5‑nanometer Shenji NX9031 chip, which promises tighter vehicle control and enhanced precision.
Safety is a highlighted selling point; the ES9 arrives with a suite of twelve airbags, the most extensive in its segment, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to passenger protection.
The appointment comes as Nio seeks to navigate a demanding macroeconomic climate, planning to concentrate resources in the second quarter to ensure a seamless rollout of both the ES9 and the Onvo L80.
Technology and safety innovations
The integration of the Shenji NX9031 chip not only improves response times but also aligns with Nio’s broader ambition to embed artificial intelligence across its vehicle lineup.
Coupled with the Nio World Model, the system leverages real‑time data to adapt to complex driving scenarios, delivering a smoother and more intuitive experience for drivers.