The future of e-mobility is powered by innovation – and at NIO, we continuously push the boundaries of what is possible. In the sixth episode of the House of NIO podcast, we welcome two leading experts to discuss cutting-edge battery technology and the evolution of fast charging.

Joining us for this insightful conversation are Dr. Frank Kindermann, Head of Battery Systems at NIO Europe, and Ines Miller, Battery Technology Expert from P3, a global leader in e-mobility solutions. Together, they explore the revolutionary 900-volt battery system of the NIO ET9, the science behind fast-charging performance, and how battery swapping is transforming the industry.

Rethinking charging efficiency: The P3 Charging Index

Understanding charging efficiency is crucial for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Ines Miller explains how P3 developed the Charging Index to measure the real-world charging performance of smart EVs.

“The index, in general, answers the question: How much actual range can you recharge within 20 minutes? A charging index of 1 means you can add 300 kilometers within that time. So, it’s really what the end customers experience for actual driving range.” – Ines Miller

NIO's ET5 Touring, despite operating on a 400-volt system, ranked second in the European P3 Charging Index, outperforming premium brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi – and falling just behind the Porsche Taycan.

“It ranked in second place – actually, even with 400-volt technology. And I think for the premium segment, it’s only the Porsche Taycan that outperforms NIO in terms of charging behavior, which is quite impressive.” – Ines Miller

Inside the NIO Battery System: Chemistry, cooling, and calibration

The key to fast charging and battery longevity lies in intelligent battery design. Dr. Frank Kindermann breaks down the engineering behind NIO’s battery technology.

“It’s all about balancing different requirements – from cell chemistry to cooling efficiency. The better we understand our batteries, the better we can optimize their performance.” – Dr. Frank Kindermann

Our NIO experts utilize advanced lithium-ion chemistries, such as nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) for higher energy density and lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) for cost efficiency, and they also prioritize thermal management to prevent overheating and maintain high charging power over time.

“With our NIO ET5 Touring battery, we continuously kept a constant high power – from 10 to 70% state of charge. Maybe not the peak power, but almost 170 kW over the whole range.” – Dr. Frank Kindermann

Overcoming range anxiety: Battery swapping as a game-changer

Two major concerns for potential EV buyers are range anxiety and cost. We address both with our Power Swap Stations, allowing our users to swap out a depleted battery for a fully charged one in just minutes.

“And you can basically decide with each swap whether you want to upgrade or go back to your standard-range battery. Of course, this may give you a little shorter range but might be enough for your daily travels. Just for your long-range vacation drive, for example, you can take the more expensive long-range variant, but only as you need it.” – Dr. Frank Kindermann

With over 3,100 Power Swap Stations in China and a growing network in Europe, NIO is offering an alternative to traditional charging stations – helping customers save time, reduce costs, and minimize battery degradation. This means that NIO combines the best of both worlds – because not only are all NIO vehicles capable of swapping their battery, but they can also be fast-charged.

The future of fast charging: NIO ET9 and the 900-Volt revolution

The next generation of smart EVs is already here. With it comes the NIO ET9, featuring a 900-volt architecture – a breakthrough that sets new global benchmarks.

“The NIO ET9 features a full-domain 900-volt architecture that sets three global benchmarks: the highest system voltage, peak charging power, and top charging current.” – Dr. Frank Kindermann

With a peak charging power expected to reach 325 kW, the ET9’s ultra-fast charging will rival the best in the market and significantly reduce charge times.

“I think we can expect, at the rollout in 2025, a peak charging power of 325 kW, and charging times well within the 20-minute limit.” – Dr. Frank Kindermann

Looking ahead: The evolution of battery performance and sustainability

The conversation concludes with a look at the long-term future of batteries. Studies show that modern smart EV batteries retain over 80% capacity even after 200,000 km – helping to dispel fears about battery degradation.

“We tested the state of health of an electric vehicle after a certain range of driving, be it 100,000 km or 200,000 km. And we then measured the battery capacity. What was impressive to see – and this is what we're trying to motivate people with, from the myths or rumors that are out there of fast battery aging – is that batteries don't age that fast.” – Ines Miller

NIO’s swappable battery system also enhances sustainability, enabling battery reuse, easier upgrades, and a more resource-efficient ecosystem.

“With how we monitor our batteries in the swapping station, we have very good knowledge about their state. And we can do regenerating cycles. In the future, it will be very, very easy to integrate them into whatever kind of second use if that is necessary.” – Dr. Frank Kindermann

Explore the full discussion on the House of NIO podcast

We’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in mobility. From integrating advanced AI to prioritizing customer-first design, we’re redefining how people interact with their cars. These ideas and more are at the heart of the House of NIO podcast. Season 2 features six monthly episodes exploring smart electric vehicle innovations and the future of mobility. Short insider editions are also available mid-month for quick updates.

Tune in to Season 2, episode 6 of our House of NIO podcast to explore the full conversation between Dr. Frank Kindermann and Ines Miller and discover how the e-mobility landscape is being redefined with next-gen battery technologies, fast-charging breakthroughs, and scalable energy solutions.

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