NIO Launches BaaS 2.0: Next-Generation Battery Subscription Service
NIO unveils enhanced Battery-as-a-Service program with flexible tiers, lower monthly costs, and expanded swap network compatibility.
NIO has announced BaaS 2.0, the next generation of its Battery-as-a-Service subscription program, offering more flexible options and lower entry costs for EV ownership.
What’s New in BaaS 2.0
| Feature | BaaS 1.0 | BaaS 2.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription tiers | 2 | 4 |
| Minimum commitment | 12 months | 3 months |
| Battery upgrade | Extra fee | Included |
| Swap frequency | Unlimited | Tier-based |
| Monthly cost (base) | €169 | €129 |
BaaS 2.0 Subscription Tiers
Tier 1: Essential
- Price: €129/month
- Battery: 75 kWh standard pack
- Swaps: 4 per month included
- Additional swaps: €8 each
- Best for: Urban commuters, low-mileage drivers
Tier 2: Standard
- Price: €169/month
- Battery: 75 kWh standard pack
- Swaps: 8 per month included
- Additional swaps: €6 each
- Best for: Regular daily drivers
Tier 3: Plus
- Price: €219/month
- Battery: 100 kWh long-range pack
- Swaps: Unlimited
- Best for: High-mileage drivers, road trippers
Tier 4: Flex
- Price: Pay-per-swap (€12.99)
- Battery: Access to any available pack
- Best for: Occasional users, fleet operators
Economic Analysis
For a typical NIO ET5 buyer in Europe:
| Purchase Option | Upfront Cost | Monthly | 5-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery included | €47,500 | €0 | €47,500 |
| BaaS Standard | €37,500 | €169 | €47,640 |
| BaaS Essential | €37,500 | €129 | €45,240 |
BaaS Essential now provides a lower total cost of ownership over 5 years while eliminating battery depreciation concerns.
Why Separate the Battery?
NIO’s philosophy treats the battery as a service rather than a purchase:
Advantages
- Lower purchase price - Save €10,000+ upfront
- No battery degradation worry - Swap stations maintain optimal health
- Technology upgrades - Access newer batteries as released
- Resale simplicity - Vehicle value independent of battery age
- Flexible capacity - Upgrade for road trips, downgrade for city use
Considerations
- Long-term cost - May exceed purchase price over 7+ years
- Network dependency - Requires access to swap stations
- Subscription commitment - Ongoing monthly expense
Expanded Swap Network
BaaS 2.0 launches alongside NIO’s accelerated infrastructure rollout:
| Region | Current Stations | 2026 Target |
|---|---|---|
| China | 2,800+ | 4,000+ |
| Europe | 50+ | 500+ |
| Middle East | 10+ | 100+ |
The new Power Swap Station 4.0 can complete a battery exchange in under 3 minutes.
European Market Impact
BaaS 2.0 is now available in European markets where NIO operates:
- Reduced entry barrier - Lower upfront cost appeals to budget-conscious buyers
- Expanding infrastructure - Swap network growing to 500+ stations by end of 2026
- Competitive pricing - Monthly costs comparable to fuel expenses
BaaS is available simultaneously with vehicle sales in NIO’s European markets.
Industry Impact
NIO’s subscription model is influencing competitors:
- CATL - Developing brand-agnostic swap standard
- Geely - Testing battery subscription in China
- European OEMs - Exploring similar concepts
BaaS 2.0 sets a new benchmark for flexible EV ownership.
For more on NIO’s technology, see our NIO Battery Swap Technology Guide.