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Chinese EV maker marks 10 years in Europe

Chinese EV maker marks 10 years in Europe

The Star13 hours ago
MUNICH, Germany, Aug. 4 (Xinhua) -- Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer NIO commemorated its 10th anniversary in Europe on Monday, underscoring a decade of technological advancement, infrastructure development, and strategic regional partnerships as it strengthens its presence in the European mobility sector.
The company, which established its European headquarters and global design center in the Munich region, now operates 60 battery swap stations across Europe.
It also runs 20 "NIO Houses" in Europe, brand experience spaces that combine showrooms, lounges and customer services. Globally, it manages nearly 3,500 fully automated battery swap sites.
Bavarian Deputy Minister President Hubert Aiwanger praised the company's innovation and long-term investment in the region. "We welcome companies that bring high-quality products and create local value," Aiwanger said. "The best results come from fair competition."
He added that Germany should focus on strengthening its industrial competitiveness through reform, innovation and collaboration.
Kurt Kapp, head of the Munich Economic Development Department, described Nio as a "flagship pioneer" among Chinese companies operating in the area. "From the start, it has exemplified how Chinese and European corporate cultures can integrate successfully," he said.
NIO's European journey began in 2015 with the launch of its Global Design Center in Munich. Its full-scale market rollout, including vehicle sales, user support, and battery swap infrastructure, was initiated in 2021, starting in Norway and later expanding to Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden.
Zhang Hui, vice president of NIO Europe, reaffirmed the company's commitment to the region, saying that NIO's German base remains a central hub for its global innovation efforts.
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