NIO Inc. charts new course with expansion into Singapore, Uzbekistan, Costa Rica

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On August 18, NIO Inc. announced plans to enter Singapore, Uzbekistan and Costa Rica between 2025 and 2026, marking the next phase of its international expansion. The move will bring the company's premium electric vehicle (EV) mobility solutions to new regions, with a focus on innovation, sustainability and intelligent vehicle technology.

Photo credit: NIO Inc.

In Singapore, NIO Inc. will partner with Wearnes Automotive, a century-old luxury car group with a strong presence across the Asia-Pacific region. Leveraging Wearnes Automotive's experience in brand building and premium customer services, the two sides will launch NIO's first right-hand-drive vehicle under the FIREFLY sub-brand, in 2026.

In Costa Rica, NIO Inc. will collaborate with Horizontes Cielo Azul Movilidad, the country's largest EV distributor. The partner has a proven track record of growing Chinese automotive brands from market entry to leadership positions. The partnership marks NIO Inc.'s first step into the Americas.

For Uzbekistan, NIO Inc. has chosen Abu Sahiy Motors, a diversified conglomerate with established roots in logistics, real estate and auto retail. Its market reach and understanding of industry trends make it a strategic ally as NIO debuts in Central Asia.

Together, these partnerships highlight a new milestone in NIO Inc.'s globalization strategy. By joining forces with established local players who understand regional dynamics and customer needs, the automaker aims to accelerate the rollout of its smart EV lineup and strengthen its foothold in diverse markets.

The company plans to introduce key models from its NIO, NOVO and FIREFLY brands in these markets.

In Costa Rica, the lineup will include the NIO EL8 (named NIO ES8 in China), EL6 (named NIO ES6 in China), ET5 Touring (named NIO ET5T in China), the ONVO L60, and the firefly model.

In Uzbekistan, NIO Inc. will offer the EL8, EL6, ET5, ET5 Touring, and the ONVO L60.

In Singapore, the launch will focus on the right-hand-drive firefly.