
Li ONE has a higher range than NIO ES8, while NIO ES8 offers better power performance. Below are the relevant introductions: Li ONE: Li ONE is a electric mid-to-large SUV launched by Li Auto in October 2018. It features leading-range extended electric technology and smart technology, with deliveries starting in December 2019. In 2020, Li ONE became the best-selling new energy SUV in the Chinese market. NIO ES8: NIO ES8 is NIO's latest mass-produced vehicle, where "E" stands for "Electric," "S" stands for "SUV," and "8" represents the performance level. The ES8 is positioned in the rapidly growing 7-seat SUV market, targeting the new generation of core families in first- and second-tier cities.

I've looked at the Li ONE and NIO ES8, simply put, they represent the style differences between two new energy SUVs. The Li ONE is an extended-range electric vehicle, meaning it has an engine to generate electricity and charge the , so you don't need to frequently charge it on long trips—just refuel, making it very convenient for road trips or long-distance travel. The NIO ES8 is purely electric, relying entirely on the battery, with strong power and fast acceleration, but it requires frequent charging. Fortunately, NIO has many battery swap stations, where you can swap the battery in just a few minutes. In terms of space, the Li ONE is a bit larger, with three rows of seats suitable for family outings, while the ES8 has a more luxurious interior, offering a comfortable and premium feel. Price-wise, the Li ONE is more affordable at entry-level, around 400,000 RMB, while the ES8 is more expensive but comes with more standard tech features, such as more advanced autonomous driving assistance. For daily use, I lean toward the Li ONE because it's practical and hassle-free, but if you're after trendiness, the ES8 is also a good choice. Either way, you'll need to consider charging convenience.

As an ordinary person who enjoys driving with family, I pay more attention to the actual experience of the Li ONE and NIO ES8. The advantage of the Li ONE is its long range and ability to generate electricity without anxiety, making it worry-free for rural trips or travel; the ES8 is purely electric, offering quiet and smooth driving with fast acceleration and a strong sense of push-back, though it requires more time for charging. Inside the car, the Li ONE has spacious room with three rows of seats that are comfortable for kids, while the ES8 boasts a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and massage seats that provide comfort during traffic jams. NIO has stronger brand services, such as 24-hour roadside assistance and dedicated customer service, whereas Li is more mainstream with cheaper . Overall, I would choose a car based on my needs: the Li ONE for frequent long trips or when fuel prices are low, and the ES8 for urban commuting with a focus on quality and saving on electricity costs.

From an economic perspective comparing the Li ONE and NIO ES8, I've calculated costs and resale value. The Li ONE is priced lower, starting around 400,000 RMB, using a hybrid fuel-electric system with lower comprehensive costs. The ES8 is more expensive but purely electric, offering cheaper charging costs saving a few cents per kilometer, though degradation may affect its second-hand value. For daily use, the Li ONE is more hassle-free with its onboard generator reducing charging time, while the ES8 relies on charging stations or battery swap services which add convenience but require more effort. Both vehicles have simple maintenance as electric vehicles eliminate engine issues. If living in a city with convenient charging infrastructure, the ES8 proves more cost-effective long-term; otherwise, the Li ONE offers more security without range anxiety.

I test drove both cars, and the difference in technological feel is quite noticeable. The NIO ES8 has a strong intelligent system, with stable adaptive cruise control on highways and smooth operation on the large infotainment screen. The Li ONE is also but focuses more on family-friendly features, such as a more considerate child monitoring system. In terms of power, the ES8, being pure electric, offers quick acceleration and responsiveness, while the Li ONE, with its range-extender, starts slightly slower but more steadily. For charging, the ES8 has the advantage of battery swapping and fast charging, saving time, whereas the Li ONE can generate electricity by refueling, offering flexibility without relying on charging stations. The interior design differs as well—one is avant-garde, the other practical. The ES8 stands out with its ambient lighting and comfort, while the Li ONE offers more storage space in the cabin. Overall, I recommend choosing based on driving habits: the NIO ES8 for the young, tech-savvy crowd, and the Li ONE for practical family-oriented drivers.

Comparing the Li ONE and NIO ES8 from brand and service perspectives, I've experienced both dealerships. NIO emphasizes a premium feel with its NIO House club-style service, convenient at-home , and extensive battery swap network coverage in cities. Li Auto positions itself as practical and approachable, with a wide after-sales service network and quick maintenance. The two vehicles target different user groups - one attracts trend-seeking young people, while the other appeals to pragmatic family users. Both offer reliable quality and sufficient range, with one being pure electric and the other extended-range, each having its pros and cons while maintaining similar usage costs. With a more flexible budget, I'd choose the NIO ES8 for its prestige and innovative features, while the Li ONE offers better value for money with its cost-effectiveness and durability.


