Shanghai-headquartered EV maker Nio is in “active discussions” with potential importers and distributors to expand to Australia.
“We are in active discussions with potential local importers and distributors, and we aim to accelerate these conversations to ensure a compliant, mature, and sustainable market entry,” a Nio spokesperson told local automotive publication CarExpert.
Firefly‘s global ambitions extend beyond its current target markets, according to the brand’s leadership.
During a media Q&A session at the Guangzhou Auto Show last week, Firefly Chief Daniel Jin said the company places no geographic limits on its expansion plans as long as it can secure suitable distributors in each market.
Right-Hand-Drive Version Ready for Market
The company said it has completed development of the right-hand-drive Fireflyf, with multiple configurations designed for Australian customers, while continuing validation work in the country.
“Now Firefly is conducting road tests in Australia as part of our global safety testing and product validation process,” the spokesperson said.
“Soon, we will finish the required crash and safety testing in Australia. Our goal is to become the first small vehicle to successfully meet the safety rating standards of China, Europe, and Australia,” the person added.
The spokesperson added that “the ongoing tests and validation work in Australia are all important steps as we move toward an official market entry,” noting that concrete timing will be shared once a distribution agreement is finalized.
Part of Broader Right-Hand-Drive Push
Australia is among several right-hand-drive markets Nio is targeting for expansion in 2026, alongside Thailand and the United Kingdom. The company is also launching in Singapore and Hong Kong.
In August, Nio co-founder and President Lihong Qin said the automaker is preparing to expand to Australia and New Zealand “in the near future,” adding that the company has held discussions with “strong dealer partners” in both markets.
“I believe that in the near future Nio vehicles will arrive in Australia and New Zealand,” Qin said, urging potential customers to “take some time to learn more about us.”
The company filed trademark applications in Australia last year for all three of its brands: Nio, Onvo and Firefly.
A prototype Firefly hatchback was spotted in Victoria in mid-June, approximately 24 kilometers from central Melbourne.
Firefly Expands Across Europe
The Firefly brand began deliveries in China in April before expanding to Norway and the Netherlands in August, followed by Belgium.
The sub-brand made its Portuguese debut earlier this week, with Austria hosting a launch event in early November and Denmark holding a relaunch last week. Orders have also opened in Luxembourg and Greece.
