Logically, if they were using the same swapping stations. They would need to at least adapt to Nio‘s standards. As the batteries have to be removed, stored and charged by the station itself. So the dimensions cannot be much different than Nio‘s
The coolest thing, is you can change to a higher capacity pack for longer journeys. But the battery leasing is so expensive, I don’t think it’s a long term financial benefit.
It was exceedingly popular back in the day, 93% of Zoe’s in 2017 and continued to be until around 2019 when it was discontinued (60%). In fact it probably was one of the biggest factors in the success of the Zoe.
https://media.renault.com/renault-reaches-milestone-of-100000-ev-batteries-leased/
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/renault-ends-battery-leasing-electric-zoe
I think a number of factors caused the model to be discontinued.
Now, I don’t think the average Nio prospective buyer will care much to save 12k€ on the battery. Since the scheme always made more sense for cheaper low-cost cars. For me it’s just a means to subsidise their swapping infrastructure, as the swap fees definitely aren’t enough (10€ + energy costs).
You don’t need to use the station though. The Nio cars still have decent fast charging capabilities. 125kw peak, but with a nice flat curve 86kWh usable 10-80% in 41 minutes.
For both my EVs has been:
That’s true. It also leads to driver assistance systems that are overly intrusive, which pass in the structured EuroNCAP test, but are unusable and almost dangerous on the road in poor visibility. Like was the case on the early MG4s. As they tried desperately to get a 5 star rating in Europe.
The size and shape of the bumper is to do with pedestrian safety, which is prioritised more in the EU NCAP rating.
The minimum standards are lower, but in practice, the tests are very similar and the cars are also almost identical.
Here the Chinese ID3 crash test.
https://youtu.be/mU3rAYAQAfw?si=EsGLIKLyjvzxUlEl
EU ID.3 crash test
https://youtu.be/0P7M8PvG0Pc?si=2-p2pA8nKGelk1l8
The test procedures are conducted at the same speed, the only difference is in the calculation of stars.
Be warned that the Dacia Spring charging speed reduces to 7kW in temperatures below 5 degrees C. I would also say the realistic range in these conditions is around 100-160km from my brief experience with the car.
Most V2 and V3 superchargers in Europe support other brands and charge by app. I don’t know how similar the EU and US superchargers are internally (other than having different plugs). But they were designed before the supercharger network opened to other brands. So a retrofit should be possible.
So America will exclude its manufacturers from buying the best tech? That sounds great for competitiveness.
Most battery tech is in Chinese hands, including the LFP batteries that make affordable EVs possible. The BYD Blade battery is already in the Tesla M3 highland and Y sold in Europe and other markets.