The Chinese electric car start-up NIO is coming to Germany in 2022. NIO's expansion into Europe began a few weeks ago in Norway. In addition to electric cars, the company also brings its unique services to local countries, including battery charging stations. Deputy chief Hui Zhang spoke to Zeit.de about the plans of NIO and the failures of the German carmaker.
NIO is a wake-up call for the German automotive industry: "We are here - and we could perhaps overtake you at some point," said Zhang. Electromobility opens up a new opportunity. Fewer components are required than with the combustion engine, which makes it easier to get started. But the even more significant factor is digitization. Customers now have different demands on car manufacturers, such as constant availability in the car, office, and home. The development towards autonomous driving also supports the fact that new providers are gaining a place in the industry. People today are more open to new brands than they used to be.