NIO has announced the arrival of its highly anticipated models, the ET5 and EC6, in the UAE. Combining cutting-edge technology, luxurious design, and sustainable performance, these vehicles are now available for purchase, marking a significant milestone in NIO’s regional expansion and its commitment to meeting the growing demand for premium EVs in the UAE.

NIO ET5
The NIO ET5 is a mid-size smart electric sedan that redefines performance driving with its aerodynamic design, advanced technology, and eco-friendly interior. The ET5’s sleek silhouette is accentuated by signature Double-Dash daytime lighting and an IllumiBlade taillight, creating a striking visual presence. Features like soft-close doors, automatic flush door handles, and a panoramic sunroof with UV filtering elevate both convenience and sophistication.

Under the hood, the ET5 is powered by the ADAM Supercomputer, featuring NVIDIA technology, and equipped with 33 high-performance sensors and cameras, including LiDAR, for unmatched intelligence and safety. The vehicle also boasts a 7.1.4 immersive sound system with 23 speakers and 1,000 watts of power, delivering a premium audio experience. The NOMI AI assistant adds intuitive interaction, making every drive seamless and enjoyable.

Inside, the ET5 embodies NIO’s “second living room” philosophy, featuring Clean+ Sustainable Fabric made from recycled PET bottles. The cabin is designed for comfort and safety, with ventilated and massage front sports seats, a smart fragrance system with an ionizer, and 23 safety and driver assistance features. The ET5 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just four seconds, thanks to its high-efficiency electric powertrain using SiC technology. Available with 75 kWh or 100 kWh battery options, the ET5 offers a range of up to 615 km (NEDC) on the 100 kWh Long Range Battery.

The ET5 is available in five sky-themed exterior colours and six earth-inspired leather interior options, with customization choices like 19” Cloud wheels or 20” Gladiator wheels and orange-painted Brembo brake callipers. Priced from AED 199,900, the ET5 is now available for UAE customers.

NIO EC6
The NIO EC6 is a smart electric coupe SUV that combines dynamic design, advanced technology, and sustainable performance. Its sleek coupe-inspired stance and distinctive front design make a bold statement, while features like invisible air vents and a dual-mode active rear spoiler enhance aerodynamics and style.

Like the ET5, the EC6 is equipped with 33 high-performance sensors and cameras, powered by the ADAM Supercomputer with NVIDIA technology. The vehicle features a 9.3-inch enhanced head-up display and an NIO high-performance 4-piston fixed calliper for superior braking performance. Inside, the EC6 prioritizes comfort with ventilated and massaging front and rear seats, a front passenger lounge seat with a footrest, and a smart fragrance system with an ionizer.

The EC6’s all-wheel-drive system delivers 360 kW of power and 700 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds. Available with 75 kWh or 100 kWh battery options, the EC6 offers a range of up to 550 km (NEDC) on the 100 kWh Long Range Battery. The EC6 is available in five sky-themed exterior colours and four earth-inspired Nappa leather interior options, with customization choices like 20” Insignia wheels or 21” Blossom wheels and orange-painted Brembo brake callipers. Priced from AED 239,900, the EC6 is now available in the UAE.

Both the ET5 and EC6 are powered by NIO’s Multi-Domain Vehicle Operating System, which integrates autonomous driving, smart cabins, connectivity, and digital cockpits into a seamless and intuitive driving experience. The vehicles also feature the Banyan system, which powers their smart functionality and is continuously updated through firmware over-the-air (FOTA) updates.

NIO’s Aquila Super Sensing system, equipped with LiDAR technology, detects objects up to 500 meters away, while 8 MP high-resolution cameras can spot vehicles 680 meters away. These features, combined with advanced algorithms, set a new benchmark for intelligent driving systems in production vehicles.

NIO is also introducing its innovative NIO Power smart power service solution in the UAE. The service includes Power Swap Stations, which use patented battery swap technology to recharge vehicles in as little as three minutes. The first station is set to launch in Abu Dhabi, with additional locations across the UAE planned for this year. NIO Power Home chargers are also available with the purchase of NIO vehicles, offering users a convenient home charging solution.

BMW has unveiled an enhanced version of the iX, its flagship electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). The updated model boasts a significantly extended range, reaching up to 700 kilometres on a single charge (WLTP) while delivering even more impressive performance.

Key enhancements:

1. Extended Range: The iX xDrive45 now boasts a WLTP range of up to 602 kilometres, while the iX xDrive60 achieves a remarkable 700 kilometres, setting a new benchmark in the segment.
2. Increased Power: All models receive a power boost. The iX xDrive45 now delivers 408 hp, while the iX xDrive60 produces 544 hp. The top-of-the-line iX M70 xDrive pushes the limits with 659 hp and a blistering 0-100 km/h time of just 3.5 seconds.
3. Refined Design: The iX features subtle yet impactful design updates, including a redesigned kidney grille, new headlight designs, and optional M Sport packages that enhance its sporty character.
4. Enhanced Technology: The iX incorporates the latest advancements in BMW eDrive technology, including optimized battery cells, new inverter technology, and improved aerodynamics.

The new BMW iX will be available in the Middle East region from the second quarter of 2025 in three variants: the iX xDrive45, the iX xDrive60, and the high-performance iX M70 xDrive. Production continues at the BMW Group plant in Dingolfing, Germany.

Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled the IONIQ 9, a three-row, all-electric SUV that blends expansive interior space with cutting-edge design and innovative EV technology. The IONIQ 9 was showcased at the iconic Goldstein House in LA, a celebrated mid-century modern architectural gem. This venue mirrors Hyundai Motor’s vision of positioning the IONIQ lineup as a beacon of innovation and progress in the EV market, emphasizing its leadership in electrification. By 2030, Hyundai aims to offer a full lineup of 23 EV models.

The World Premiere event kicked off with a keynote speech by José Muñoz, the President and Global Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor Company. After the unveiling of the IONIQ 9, the event featured a terrace talk session exploring the Hyundai brand and the IONIQ 9’s design and space, along with an exhibition zone showcasing its development journey.

The IONIQ 9 offers an attractive new option for customers seeking a three-row EV that can accommodate up to seven occupants. It provides impressive space and features that cater to individual needs while fostering a sense of togetherness — it is truly ‘Built to Belong’. The IONIQ 9 is designed to meet the needs of consumers who are hyper-connected yet also value space, privacy, and relaxation.

“IONIQ 9 embodies Hyundai Motor’s unwavering commitment and confidence in electrification,” said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “Based on Hyundai Motor Group’s acclaimed Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), IONIQ 9 offers outstanding interior space, providing customers with unique value while solidifying our leadership in the global EV market.”

The IONIQ 9 boasts superior roominess with expansive second- and third-row space, offering an exceptional experience for occupants. Its interior design features elliptical elements and calming tones, creating a lounge-like atmosphere that feels serene and natural, especially when illuminated by the Panoramic Sunroof.

The flat floor of the IONIQ 9 accommodates seating arrangements for six or seven occupants. The Relaxation Seats in the first and second rows can fully recline and offer a leg rest for optimal comfort, allowing up to four people to rest during vehicle charging, depending on the configuration. When combining the second and third rows, the IONIQ 9 provides 1,899 mm of headroom and 2,050 mm of legroom. The Relaxation Seats feature Hyundai Motor’s first Dynamic Body Care system, including a Dynamic Touch Massage function. This system uses pressure and vibration to stimulate blood flow and circulation, reducing fatigue on long drives.

The IONIQ 9 also introduces second-row Swiveling Seats, allowing occupants in the second and third rows to face each other when the vehicle is stationary. This flexible configuration enhances interaction and communication among passengers, adding another dimension to the vehicle’s unique space. The slidable Universal Island 2.0 console offers impressive storage and delivers a walk-through front-row seating arrangement, enhancing accessibility and convenience. The bidirectional armrests can be opened from the front and rear, allowing easy access to the console from the second row.

The Universal Island 2.0 can be moved by up to 190 mm, making it easily accessible to second-row passengers. The console provides 5.6 litres of storage in the upper tray and 12.6 litres in the lower sliding tray. With the third-row seats folded flat, the trunk can accommodate up to 1,323 litres of luggage. With all three rows in place, the IONIQ 9 offers up to 620 litres of luggage room. Additionally, the front trunk provides a maximum volume of 88 litres for RWD models and 52 litres for AWD models.

The IONIQ 9 emphasizes sustainability in its material choices, including Eco Process Leather, Recycled PET Fabric, Wool Fabric, Bio TPO/PU Skin, Bio PET/SUEDE Fabric, and Bio Paint. The vehicle also uses paint made from recycled tire waste. The IONIQ 9’s panoramic curved display, floating dashboard, slim air vents, and ambient interior lighting further enhance the vehicle’s futuristic interior atmosphere.

The IONIQ 9 boasts a sleek ‘Aerosthetic’ exterior, showcasing Hyundai Motor’s dedication to combining aerodynamic innovation with sophisticated, futuristic styling. The front-end design features Parametric Pixels integrated into the LED light units and lower fascia, creating a distinct and refined appearance.

The IONIQ 9’s silhouette is defined by a smooth, curved roofline that contributes to a streamlined aerodynamic profile, achieving a low drag coefficient of just 0.259 Cd when equipped with digital side mirrors. Energy efficiency is further enhanced by optimizing airflow under the body and reducing wheel and tyre resistance. For the first time, Hyundai has applied a dual-motion active air flap (AAF) system. Additional aero-enhancing solutions include a 3D-shaped underbody cover, aerodynamic wheels, and hidden antennas.

With the longest wheelbase of any Hyundai model at 3,130 mm, the IONIQ 9 impresses with its expansive cabin and grand proportions. The pure volume of the body and fenders creates an imposing impression, while intricately designed accents add depth and dimension. The flowing rear wheel arch character line emphasizes the vehicle’s unique volume and contributes to its dynamic design. Reminiscent of a boat tail, the rear continues the theme of pixel-fused seamless integration, enhancing the IONIQ 9’s outstanding aerodynamic performance. The streamlined roofline and rising lower line create balance and give the silhouette a sleek, dynamic look.

Notably, the IONIQ 9 is the first Hyundai model to eliminate the roof antenna by dividing its functions among the windshield cover (for GPS and satellite radio), the instrument panel (for Connected Car Services), and the tailgate glass (for FM/AM and Digital Multimedia Broadcasting), contributing to its advanced and minimalist design. Exterior lighting aligns with Hyundai’s other EV models, featuring IONIQ signature Parametric Pixel lamps with small cube projection headlights and an intelligent front-lighting system (IFS) to improve vision and driving safety while preventing glare to oncoming vehicles. The rear features a full LED combination lamp, and the outside door handles include indirect lighting for enhanced visibility.

The IONIQ 9’s confident stance is supported by a range of wheel options, including standard-fit 19-inch wheels, 20-inch and 21-inch wheel options, and a top-of-the-line 21-inch Calligraphy design, allowing buyers to further customize the vehicle. The SUV is available in 16 exterior colours, including new hues such as Celadon Gray Matte, Celadon Gray Metallic, Ionosphere Green Pearl, Sunset Brown Pearl, and Cosmic Blue Pearl. Inside, interior trim colour choices include Obsidian Black and six unique two-tone options.

The IONIQ 9 is built on Hyundai Motor’s advanced E-GMP architecture, featuring an enhanced PE system, optimized gear ratio for hill climbing, and a two-stage inverter for improved efficiency. A fully encapsulated PE system helps reduce motor noise, while enhanced acoustic laminated glass, triple sealing in all areas, and a reinforced plate in the A-pillar work together to minimize road and wind noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) inside the cabin.

This platform includes a high-capacity, high-voltage battery for extended electric range and a flat floor for increased passenger comfort and cargo space. Collision safety and durability are also improved thanks to a robust body structure designed for optimal crash energy distribution. The IONIQ 9 is the first Hyundai model to feature aluminium fenders and quarter panels, contributing to a lightweight body that enhances the EV’s efficiency. The new dual-motion active air flap (AAF) system further improves air sealing and exterior appearance with flush body panels.

Additionally, the SUV introduces a new closure system with a rolling-type pin-lift door hinge for a better fit and finish, and a newly developed electric hood latch for the front trunk, enhancing both design and product quality.

The advanced PE system’s high-voltage, floor-mounted NCM lithium-ion battery offers 110.3 kWh of energy. The IONIQ 9 is expected to achieve an outstanding WLTP-estimated all-electric range of 620 km and a WLTP-targeted energy consumption of 194 Wh/km for the Long-Range RWD model with 19-inch wheels, thanks to its low drag coefficient and advanced platform and battery technologies.

The IONIQ 9 can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW charger. Its vehicle-to-load (V2L) convenience feature and 400V/800V multi-charging capability further ease the transition to EVs. The Long-Range RWD model is powered by a 160 kW rear motor, the Long-Range AWD model includes an additional 70 kW front motor, and the Performance AWD models feature 160 kW motors at both the front and rear.

The Performance model can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds, the Long-Range AWD model in 6.7 seconds, and the Long-Range RWD version in 9.4 seconds. For mid-range acceleration, the Performance model accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in 3.4 seconds, the Long-Range AWD model in 4.8 seconds, and the Long-Range RWD version in 6.8 seconds.

Hyundai Motor has implemented significant advancements in the IONIQ 9 to address common EV concerns. These include a refined EV Route Planner, improved battery consistency, an enhanced torque control display, a comprehensive energy report feature, and other smart improvements.

The IONIQ 9 displays its charge status via green dots on the steering wheel, keeping drivers informed of remaining energy. It also features the Hyundai AI Assistant, an AI-enabled voice recognition system similar to a home virtual assistant, activated by a button. The system’s status is indicated by dotted indicators for easy use. These features combine advanced technology with practicality to enhance the EV experience.

Hyundai Motor’s new Features on Demand (FoD) service allows IONIQ 9 customers to further personalize their vehicle with digital upgrades available for purchase from the online store. FoD products offer dynamic lighting patterns when opening the door, dynamic escort light when closing the door, and content streaming options including Amazon Music and Soundcloud. The Display Theme feature allows customization of the screen with various themes.

Over-the-air (OTA) software update capability allows in-vehicle controllers to update wirelessly. The vehicle features a Digital Key function through NFC communication, a fast wireless charger with a rubberized charging pad to prevent devices from sliding when on the move, and a cooling fan to reduce device temperature when charging. Bluelink Connected Car Services delivers seamless connectivity through online voice recognition and a range of features for a more convenient and enjoyable driving experience. This includes real-time road surface assessments and driving judgments, as well as a ‘Driver Safety Index’ based on driver patterns.

The IONIQ 9 features 100W high-output USB-C ports for passengers in all rows, powered directly by the high-voltage battery for uninterrupted use. This extends Hyundai Motor’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing users to charge devices and appliances via a standard outlet using the EV’s battery. The climate system includes a rear-independent function optimized for leisure activities like car camping, providing air-conditioning for rear passengers while reducing power consumption by independently controlling the front and rear zones. It also features a slim roof air vent that works with the Panoramic Sunroof package.

Additionally, the SUV is equipped with a UV-C sterilizer, offering multi-tray sterilization for items like mobile phones, wallets, and masks, meeting customers’ needs for health and hygiene in the vehicle.