What is the autonomous driving level of NIO?
4 Answers
NIO's autonomous driving level is Level 2. Here are specific details about NIO: 1. Introduction: "NIO" is also known as NEXTEV, originating from China. NIO was jointly founded by leading internet companies and entrepreneurs such as Li Bin, Richard Liu, Li Xiang, Tencent, Hillhouse Capital, and Shunwei Capital. "NIO" embodies the company's vision of pursuing a better tomorrow and creating a joyful lifestyle for users. 2. Development: Through relentless efforts, NIO has established a product portfolio covering new energy vehicles, sedans, and MPVs across low, medium, and high-end segments, featuring a wide series and multiple varieties. The company possesses engine platforms with displacements ranging from 0.8L to 2.5L.
NIO's current models are actually quite impressive, such as the new ET7 and ES7, which are equipped with hardware like LiDAR, multiple cameras, and high-precision positioning. Their NAD system is aimed at L4 autonomy, but the currently available features are mainly highway pilot assist, which is at L2+ level. I've studied its operational logic—it can automatically overtake and change lanes on closed roads, but still requires human intervention in construction zones. NIO has loaded up on sensors, clearly paving the way for future OTA upgrades—essentially installing the hardware first and unlocking higher capabilities once regulations permit. Officially, these vehicles are still registered as L2 at the DMV, just like all mass-produced cars.
Last week I tried NIO's NOP+ feature, which is essentially an advanced driver-assistance system. It can maintain lane position, adjust speed, and even perform intelligent lane changes for overtaking on highways, but requires the driver to keep hands on the wheel throughout. This system is significantly more sophisticated than basic cruise control, yet still cannot fully replace human drivers. For instance, it gets confused by faded road markings or sudden pedestrian crossings. NIO officially describes it as 'conditional autonomous driving' - essentially an upgraded L2 system by international standards. The key distinction lies in liability: when accidents occur, the manufacturer doesn't assume responsibility, proving human drivers remain fundamentally in control.
NIO's autonomous driving technology approach is quite interesting. Their current vehicles are all pre-equipped with Level 4 hardware, but only Level 2 functions are currently enabled. It's like buying a 5G-capable phone when local base stations aren't ready yet. In practical use, you mostly have to drive yourself on urban roads, with NOP only available on highways. I specifically checked MIIT announcements - all currently sold models are certified as Level 2. However, their ET7 model being developed has tested Level 3 in Germany. The main reason it's not available domestically is regulations. If future regulations loosen up, they might actually be able to unlock higher-level functions through remote upgrades.
