Nio has entered into a partnership with UAE telecoms group e&, paving the way for the planned launch of its models in the Middle Eastern country in the fourth quarter.
Nio (NYSE: NIO) has entered into a partnership with UAE telecoms group e&, paving the way for the launch of its models there.
“Proud to join forces with @eAndUAE in an exciting new collaboration focused on innovative connectivity and premium EV solutions,” Nio's X account for the UAE market, @NIOUAE, wrote on X.
“This partnership marks a pivotal moment in shaping the future of smart mobility and enhancing the driving experience for users in the UAE and MENA,” @NIOUAE added.
Nio didn't provide any further details about the partnership, though it seems to be aimed at enabling its vehicles to use e&'s network.
The @NIOUAE account was opened on August 19, when a letter was shared which said the company's commitment to fostering a growing community and building a strong network in the UAE.
Nio closed two investments from Abu Dhabi's CYVN Holdings last year, making the Middle Eastern investor its largest shareholder, although the company's founder, chairman, and CEO William Li still has the most voting rights.
On October 4, Nio signed an agreement with CYVN to form a joint venture, Nio MENA, marking the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker's entry into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) market.
Nio MENA would introduce Nio and its sub-branded models to the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) market, expanding its footprint and further integrating into the global smart EV ecosystem, according to a statement at the time.
The UAE has been selected as the initial market for Nio MENA, positioning the region as a key player in the deployment of advanced autonomous driving systems and battery swap technologies.
As part of its broader regional vision, Nio and CYVN planned to collaborate on a new EV project involving research, manufacturing and future product launches, the statement earlier this month said.
Nio and CYVN also planned to establish a research and development center in Abu Dhabi that will focus on autonomous driving and artificial intelligence.
Nio would begin deliveries in the UAE in the fourth quarter of this year, offering Nio's full system of services to users in the MENA region from the UAE, Li said at the time.
In overseas markets, some of Nio's vehicles are currently only available in Norway, Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Denmark.
Nio, CYVN form JV Nio MENA to tap Middle East and North Africa markets