The AutoWallis Group is taking yet another significant step to strengthen its international position by securing exclusive distribution rights for the electric NIO brand in the highest potential EV markets of the region, including Hungary, Austria, Czechia, Poland, and Romania as general distributor. Sales are expected to start in 2025 Q4 in Hungary and Austria and in 2026 in the other countries.

The AutoWallis Group, listed on the Prime Market of the Budapest Stock Exchange, is continuing to bolster its international position: it has acquired the exclusive import rights to distribute the NIO brand, which builds electric vehicles, in the region, preparing sales in five countries. Sales are expected to start in 2025 Q4 in Hungary and Austria, followed by Romania, Czechia, and Poland in 2026. For NIO, the agreement with the AutoWallis Group means a crucial step to significantly boosting its European presence following its entry to Norway in 2021 and Sweden, Denmark, Netherlands, and Germany in 2022. The Shanghai-based company was established in 2014, operates a battery swapping station manufacturing plant in Biatorbágy, Hungary, and was listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 2018, with shares now also listed on the Hong Kong and Singapore stock exchanges. NIO runs development hubs in a number of countries around the world, with an engineering center in the UK, advanced driving assistance development in both California and Berlin, and design studios in Munich responsible for both external and interior design.

Talking about the agreement, AutoWallis CEO Gábor Ormosy said, “We are very proud to partner with one of the most exciting car brands in the world, starting with five countries in the region. The launch of the NIO brand in Central and Eastern Europe draws on our decades of experience in the region and our expertise in the automotive market. It is very inspiring to see the innovation potential of NIO, which is why we look forward to cooperation with our new partner with great anticipation.”

Thijs Meijling, Head of NIO Europe Business, added: “Entering Central and Eastern Europe is a significant next step in NIO’s journey. With AutoWallis, we have found a strong and experienced partner that understands the dynamics of the region and shares our vision of premium, smart and sustainable mobility. Together, we will bring not only our premium NIO models but also the new firefly brand to users in these markets — offering innovative technologies, flexible energy solutions and a user experience designed to inspire confidence and convenience.”

The unique character of NIO fully electric vehicles is made possible by the company’s global R&D network and its consistent software-defined vehicle (SDV) approach. NIO’s most unique innovation is undoubtedly the swappable batteries of its electric cars. While all NIO models can be charged from charging stations or electrical outlets just like any EV, the unique design of the NIO cars enables the entire battery pack to be replaced in less than 3 minutes. NIO already operates 60 Power Swap Stations in Europe with the intention of further expanding its network.

The AutoWallis Group was among the first to enter into partnerships with popular Chinese brands such as BYD, MG, and Farizon, and, together with its Portuguese partner, recently secured the exclusive distribution rights for the XPENG brand in three of the region’s countries (Hungary, Slovenia, and Croatia). The company is exploring further business development opportunities with the aim of continuing to increase the Group’s coverage in 16 countries and to expand the range of brands it offers – which, together with NIO, will now number 29 – that may determine the coming period both in terms of sales growth and profit generation.

About NIO

NIO is a global smart electric vehicle company founded in November 2014. Dedicated to shaping a sustainable and brighter future together by providing high-performance smart electric vehicles and exceptional user experiences, NIO is the first car company listed on the NYSE, HKEX and SGX. NIO currently has three major brands under its umbrella: NIO, ONVO and firefly.

NIO Inc. currently offers nine premium smart electric vehicle models under the NIO brand, one smart electric vehicle under the ONVO brand and one small, smart, high-end electric vehicle under firefly brand. As of April 30, 2025, NIO Inc. had delivered a total of 737,558 vehicles, leading the premium BEV segment priced above RMB 300,000.

 AutoWallis to launch the premium electric car brand NIO in the region