Emir BardakçıIn response to recent market speculation, both Xiaomi and NIO have publicly addressed rumors of a potential acquisition, stemming from a research report by Haitong International Securities. The Initial Speculation Haitong International released a “Five Guesses for 2025” research report recently, in which it even boldly estimated that Xiaomi will acquire NIO. The report had said it would be increasing usage of its power battery-swapping technology; besides patent protection to its licensing for the same technology applied to other automotive manufacturers.
Official Responses
Statement by Xiaomi: The General Manager of Public Relations at Xiaomi Group, Wang Hua, replied to the speculation diplomatically, offering three possible ways to respond:
- “Ask whoever made the guess!” was the informal term used in response.
- “The companies do not comment on guesses coming from third-party sources” is the standard way of saying.
- “What’s the time, how many dishes are there?” (evading the question)
NIO’s Clarification
To shed more light on this, Ma Lin, Assistant Vice President of Brand and Communications at NIO, gave more details about the situation. According to him, NIO’s team had already contacted the author of the report, who explained that this speculation was actually intended to “express recognition of the NIO brand and the battery swap model” rather than to suggest a real merger.
Current Status of the Technology in Battery Swapping
Ma Lin seized the moment to speak about the achievements of NIO in the field of battery-swapping technology: Network coverage in more than 700 cities across the country.
Positive correlation between battery swap stations and sales.
- Increased industry recognition of the value of battery swapping
- CATL to adopt battery swap technology Most notably, he said that the founder of NIO, Li Bin, has suggested battery swap models with Xiaomi Lei Jun earlier, and there is more under construction in cooperation models with other brands.
Market Impact
Although the acquisition rumor has been denied, the story does reflect how important the battery-swapping technology is becoming in China’s electric vehicle market and how technology companies and automotive manufacturers are increasingly crossing paths.
