Tesla Model Y is currently the world’s highest-selling passenger car having outsold the Toyota Corolla in global sales in 2023. Now Nio, a leading electric carmaker from China is about to challenge the Model Y with its latest offering.
New spy shots of what is suspected to be the first model from Nio’s new range of vehicles called Alps have surfaced on the internet, showing the model closer to production status. Not so long ago, Nio’s co-founder and CEO William Li also asked people who wanted to purchase the Tesla Model Y, to wait for the Alps first model because it would be cheaper and better.
Remember a couple of years back, Nio revealed its plans to tap the volume vehicle segment by launching an all-new marque targeting budget buyers as new energy vehicles see their popularity rise in Chinese as well as key global markets. The new Alps sub-brand could be just that. More interestingly, the test mules wrapped in a beautiful camouflaging livery had a “Better than Model Y” written on the back, indicating its bold intentions that it was well-prepared to take on the Tesla Model Y head-on.
The test mule which was spotted during road tests in Heihe, Heilongjiang shows a fastback styling with a comparatively low beltline. Its rear end has a ducktail spoiler, a minimalistic bumper, and two slim angular taillight units. Other features are frameless doors and retractable door handles.
Related: Tesla Model Y Emerges as World’s Bestselling Vehicle of 2023
As per reports, the forthcoming Alps model will be underpinned by Nio’s third-generation platform, NT 3.0. It will offer customers with two battery options of 60 kWh and 90 kWh. The entry-level model will have a single electric motor developed by Nio. However, it will also be available with dual-motor 4WD. Like other Nio cars, it will support a battery swap function. According to William Li, the Alps model will have faster charging and a bigger multimedia screen inside the cabin.
With better specs & features, the Alps will also come cheaper than the Tesla Model Y. As per sources, it is expected to be priced from 250,000 yuan ($34,700), while the Model Y costs between 258,900 – 363,900 yuan ($36,000 – $50,500). An official release is anticipated in the upcoming months.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
