Electric vehicle (EV) users in the UAE now have access to a faster and more efficient charging alternative, as Chinese EV manufacturer NIO introduces its battery swapping technology to the local market.
Battery swap system
NIO’s Power Swap Station allows users to replace their EV battery with a fully charged one in about three minutes. The automated process includes self-parking, battery removal, replacement, and a complete diagnostic check of the vehicle’s battery, motor, and electrical systems.
The first UAE-based Power Swap Station opened in February 2025 at Yas Marina Circuit. Since then, about 15% of NIO drivers in the UAE have used the service, reflecting a growing preference for battery swapping over traditional charging.
Time-saving alternative
Unlike conventional charging methods—which slow as batteries near full capacity—battery swapping delivers a charged battery instantly. According to NIO, charging a 100kWh battery from 5% to 95% typically takes:
8 hours on 11kW AC
2 hours on 50kW DC
45 minutes on 120kW DC
In contrast, a battery swap takes just three minutes. NIO reports that over 1,749 kilowatt-hours have already been delivered through swaps in just 1.4 total hours, a significant time-saving compared to standard charging methods.
Second station in Dubai
A second NIO Power Swap Station is set to open in Dubai in the coming weeks, with additional stations planned later this year to expand the network.
NIO’s deployment supports the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, which promotes investment in sustainable transportation and advanced mobility solutions to meet the UAE’s urban growth.
This advanced infrastructure provides a faster and more energy efficient solution compared to traditional EV charging, addressing two of the biggest challenges facing EV adoption in the UAE: long charging times and limited charger availability.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
