When it comes to premium EV sedans, the NIO ET7 and the Tesla Model S are probably some of the top models in this segment.
The Tesla Model S although quite old, it can still deliver a good punch. And the NIO ET7 is there to challenge the Model S for the throne.
So, if you want to learn more on how well the NIO ET7 compares with the Tesla Model S, follow along because there will be a lot to cover. We will discuss the specs, prices, powertrains, range, and many other aspects.
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Specs
Let’s start with a quick comparison on the specs of these models. For this purpose, we created a small table where we compare these two cars side by side, so you get a decent perspective of the performance of these two models.
| Model | NIO ET7 | Tesla Model S |
|---|---|---|
| Variant | Base | Model S AWD |
| Price | $62,270 | $96,000 |
| Battery (kWh) | 70 kWh | 100 kWh |
| Drive | AWD | RWD |
| WLTP Range (km) | 550 km | 663 km |
| Power Output (kW) | 480 kW | 493 kW |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 3.9 seconds | 3.1 seconds |
| Plug Types (AC/DC) | Type 2 & CCS2 | Type 2 & CCS2 |
| Max Charge Rate (AC/DC) | 11/140 | 18/180 |
| Cargo Space (liters) | 363 liters | 707 liters |
| Frunk Cargo Space | No | Yes |
| Length (mm) | 5,101 mm | 4,979 mm |
| Width (mm) | 1,981 mm | 1,964 mm |
| Height (mm) | 1,505 mm | 1,445 mm |
| Running Clearance | 150 mm | 150 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,060 mm | 2,960 mm |
| Tow Rating | 750 kg | 750 kg |
| V2L | Yes | No |
| Warranty | 3 years/120,000km | 4 years/80,000 km |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years/120,000 km | 8 years/120,000 km |
| Loyalty Program | Yes | Yes |
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Price
Price is the main reason why you buy a certain product. Whether this is a car, a cell phone or something else. The price has to be within the budget in order for you to consider it.
We can tell you right off the bat that these are some expensive cars. These are the most premium luxury EV sedans that you can buy at the moment. This results in a very high asking price.
So, the NIO ET7 starts at $62,270. But the Tesla Model S is much more expensive. The long range AWD version of this model will cost you $96,000 in China.
A higher trim NIO ET7 can cost you up to $72,590. And the Tesla Model S Plaid can reach up to $130,000.
What you should also consider is that these are the Chinese prices. If you want to import one of these cars to your country, you will also have to pay import fees.
These fees depend on where you live. Some countries have very low fees, while some have much higher ones. So, good research before you buy is essential.
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Design and Interior
The design is the most important aspect of every car. This is the thing that sells. The design has to be contemporary in order for more people to buy it. So, how do these two models perform in this area?
The NIO ET7 is a fairly new model that was released in 2022. This model is following all the latest trends in the EV industry.
The ET7 implements a sleek front end that focuses on aerodynamics and maximizing the range. But it shows how luxurious an EV can look. This model carries the famous NIO design language that is present in all of the models.
The body is streamlined with flush door handles and the rear you have that sport back look, reminiscent of the Audi A7.
While the Tesla Model S on the other hand is a pretty dated model. This model was introduced in 2013 and since then it has had one major refresh, that was a very long time ago.
But this model is still contemporary, however, very less popular than it was a couple years ago. So, Tesla only includes two models, the standard AWD and the Plaid.
The Plaid is somewhat special. With this model you get a yoke steering wheel that looks like it came from a sci-fi movie. So, this is a plus.
The interior of the Tesla was refreshed a few years ago with the new minimalist dash and a new infotainment. So, tech-wise, the model is still contemporary.
This is also the case with the NIO ET7. The interior of the ET7 is really nice and premium. It is full of technology and is definitely worth the money.
The thing why we prefer the interior of the ET7 before the Model S is because this model is more modern and in the cabin there is a lot going on.
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Power and Performance
Power and performance plays a huge role when buying an EV. Especially at this price point. EVs have to perform and deliver unforgettable acceleration times from 0 to 100 km/h. So, how do these models perform?
Well, these are probably the fastest EVs that you can purchase right now. The NIO ET7 is powered by dual motors and makes a massive 644 hp and 850 N-m of torque.
All this power is enough to deliver an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. And when you consider the size of this vehicle, 3.9 seconds is very quick.
But the Tesla Model S is even quicker. This model comes in two varieties. The standard AWD version produces 644 hp and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.1 seconds.
Then you have the Tesla Model S Plaid. This model produces 1,020 hp and provides an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 1.99 seconds.
And honestly, this is something that will probably be unbeaten in the years to come. The Tesla Model S will stay on the top for many years in the future. This is why if you want to get a high performing EV, the Model S Plaid is the right option for you!
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Battery and Range
The range that an EV delivers is also very important. You need a vehicle that will meet your requirements in terms of range. You just don’t want to deal with range anxiety on a daily basis, this will completely drain you.
And luckily for you, the NIO ET7 and the Tesla Model S are very good performers in this aspect and deliver excellent range.
With the NIO ET7, you have three batteries. 75, 100, and 150 kWh. These batteries deliver a range of 550, 700, and 900 km, respectively.
When opting for the ET7, you should definitely move up to the ladder and avoid the base battery. 550 km is not a lot.
With the Tesla Model S, you have only one battery pack. This is a 100 kWh pack that delivers up to 663 km in the standard model and up to 645 km.
Overall, when it comes to the model that delivers a better range, we can say confidently that the NIO ET7 delivers a much better range compared to the Model S.
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Autopilot and Other Tech
One major reason why you should get a Model S or the ET7 is because of the Autopilot. This is the feature that basically sets these models way ahead of the competition.
So, what is really the autopilot? Well, the autopilot as its name implies is an autopilot but only for the highway.
These models can only give you a Level 2 autonomy. Unfortunately, nothing more than this is currently available. Tesla is still testing its autopilot for the city and they are still far behind the goal of reaching full autonomy.
The brain behind this autopilot is the ADAS system. This is the Advanced Driving Assistance System that every EV manufacturer offers.
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Every manufacturer has its own hardware and software but in general the idea is the same. There are sensing units around the car such as sensors, cameras, and radars. Then the algorithm works and evaluates this data.
This system offers plenty of safety features, such as the autopilot (adaptive cruise control), blind spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, crash detection, rear cross traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, park assist, and plenty of other features.
Basically, it really depends on how much money you have in order to activate all of these features in your Tesla or NIO.
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Size and Body
Vehicle size is also very important when it comes to shopping for a new car. The car has to meet your demands and deliver in terms of practicality. You need a practical car that will not frustrate you in the long term.
And since these are very large cars, they deliver in this area. Both the NIO ET7 and the Tesla Model S have very roomy cabins.
Inside these models you will never feel cramped and struggling for room. Whether it’s headroom or leg room.
The seats are comfortable and designed for maximum adjustability. However Tesla only uses synthetic leather for their seats. Which is a shame for a car that costs so much money. The seats in the NIO ET7 are ventilated and also made from real Napa leather that is very soft and overall very comfortable.
In terms of cargo capacity, the NIO ET7 has a decent trunk that is able to fit up to 363 liters. While the Tesla Model S is able to fit up to 705 liters. This is possible because the Tesla Model S is a liftback.
Overall, both models are pretty good with the ET7 exceeding in driving comfort while the Tesla Model S has an advantage in terms of cargo space.
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Safety
An area that many people avoid is vehicle safety. Vehicle safety should be one of the bigger priorities when selecting your future EV.
We noted previously that the NIO ET7 and the Tesla Model S include plenty of safety features. Such as automated emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control and so on.
This is very important and this is why we advise that you select all these essential features that could save your life or save a pedestrian’s life.
In addition to this, these models were heavily crash-tested by many institutions that deal with safety all across the world.
The Tesla Model S passed basically every test with the highest scores possible. The Model S is built like a tank and still performs as such even after so many years.
The NIO ET7 was also tested heavily and this model scored clean 5/5 on the Euro NCAP test, which is the most reputable testing institution in Europe.
Overall, both of these models deliver a great level of safety.
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Warranties
Vehicle warranty is also an area that you should pay attention to before buying a vehicle. You need to have good coverage in terms of warranty because who knows when something could go wrong.
What is good in this situation is that both NIO and Tesla offer good battery warranty. Which is 8 years or 160,000 km.
While when it comes to vehicle warranty, you get up to 3 years or 120,000 km with the NIO ET7 and up to 4 years or 80,000 km with the Tesla Model S.
Overall, the vehicle warranty makes the difference. So, you need to learn what your priorities are when it comes to buying one of these models.
NIO ET7 vs Tesla Model S: Additional Considerations
When it comes to this model, there are no major considerations that you need to take, except maybe for the fact that the Tesla Model S is more than 10 years old and is slowly getting pretty dated.
And the high price tag makes it a bad deal compared to the cheap competition from China.
Final Thoughts
Overall, both the NIO ET7 and the Tesla Model S are very solid options. These are all-premium EVs that are designed to deliver the maximum performance.
But both have shortcomings, especially the Tesla Model S. Firstly, it is very expensive, secondly it is very dated for modern standards.
The ET7 is a good option but it does not match with the Tesla in terms of performance. Remember that the Tesla Model is a 2 second car.
So, when buying one of these models, you should consider your priorities. But overall, the ET7 might be a better option. You can get a 900 km range model for much cheaper than the base Tesla Model S.
