It’s another Chinese Tesla Model Y crusher! Meet the 2024 fast-charging long-range Onvo L60

Rising Chinese car-maker Nio has launched Onvo, the first of two new electrified brands it has created to battle mainstream car-makers such as Tesla and Volkswagen.

And surprise, surprise, the first model is an SUV named the Onvo L60 designed to steal sales from the Tesla Model Y.

Priced from just $45,500 in China, the Onvo L60 costs 12 per cent less than the Model Y. But it’s not only value that will tempt many to favour the new contender over Australia’s best-selling EV.

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The Onvo L60 focuses on space, safety and utility with the L60 likely to lead the class for all three.

Then there is its ultra-fast charging. From launch all versions will boast an advanced 900-volt electrical architecture that is normally associated with cars with six-figure price tag.

Onvo hasn’t released just how fast the L60 charges but it will easily lead the class from launch.

Speaking of which, when it’s introduced in China in Q3 of 2024 there will be three versions.

One with a range of 554km, a mid-range model that can cover 731km and the long range L60 that will travel 1000km before it needs a charge.

All those figures are recorded on the more lenient CLTC test cycle but even when it’s retested on the stricter WLTP Euro test regime expect the L60 to outclass every derivative of the Model Y and raise the bar for range across its class.

Key to its big range is efficiency. The Onvo L60 claimed to consume energy at an average of just 12.1kWh per 100km.

That’s because the Onvo L60 has a remarkably low-drag coefficient of just 0.299Cd and the latest BYD-sourced battery tech.

As well as being fast to charge, the Onvo will come equipped with a three-minute battery-swap capability, enabling a driver to opt for larger batteries for long-distance travel.

The Onvo L60 is set to come with Nio-developed sophisticated driver assist aids that will, at least, match the Tesla Model Y.

One final intriguing claimed following its Chinese unveil is the L60 will feature an “ingenious storage design” suggesting extra spaces hidden around the cabin to stow bags, or an extra-large frunk up front.

Previously developed under the Alps codename, Nio’s new sub-brand will be joined by another Nio-owned brand called Firefly that is set to sell the Chinese car-making group’s most affordable EVs.

Both are said to have been created to be global brands, hinting at possible launches Down Under. As far back as 2021 Nio openly hinted at coming to Australia by 2025.

Commenting on its launch Alan Ai, Nio VP and Onvo’s new boss said: “Onvo is on a mission to create better family life, and the L60 will grow and explore the world with its users to celebrate happiness on every path we travel with family.”

Lovely.

Deliveries of the new Onvo L60 start in China in Q3 of 2024.