NIO has opened a new research and development facility in Witney, Oxfordshire, consolidating its UK engineering operations as the smart electric vehicle maker marks a decade of innovation in the country.
The new 9,460 sq ft site at Book End is now operational and brings together NIO’s former teams at Begbroke Science Park and Bicester Motion. More than 40 UK-based engineers will work from the facility, which includes dedicated computer-aided engineering (CAE) space and a vehicle laboratory designed to support future vehicle development programmes.
NIO established its Oxfordshire R&D operation in 2016 as a global centre for performance and advanced concept engineering. Since then, the UK team has contributed to a range of projects across the company’s portfolio, from the NIO EP9 electric supercar to the NIO ET9 executive flagship. Engineers in the UK have also supported development work for NIO’s third brand, firefly, including its first compact EV.
New Witney Facility Supports Broader EV Engineering Role
The Witney centre strengthens NIO’s UK operation as a multidisciplinary engineering hub within its global R&D network. Its work covers CAE, computational fluid dynamics, simulation, vehicle safety, Euro NCAP assessments, durability, handling, and noise, vibration and harshness development.
Bringing virtual engineering and physical vehicle development under one roof is expected to improve collaboration and accelerate work on technologies that can enhance the driving and ownership experience. NIO says the expanded facility will also support continued development of smart chassis systems and safety solutions for its global vehicle platforms.
The UK team also plays a role in regulatory and policy work. NIO’s Oxfordshire operation acts as NIO Europe’s focal point for AI regulation and represents the company in the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers’ AI Cluster through the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. The team also contributes to EU policy discussions and UNECE working groups.
NIO Reaffirms Long-Term UK Commitment
The official opening was attended by senior NIO executives, industry representatives and guests, including NIO Executive Vice President Mark Zhou, NIO Europe Vice President Hui Zhang, Principal Chief Engineer Danilo Teobaldi, and SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes.
Hui Zhang said the Oxfordshire team has been integral to NIO’s global R&D efforts over the past decade, contributing expertise across multiple vehicle programmes and engineering disciplines. The new facility, he said, underlines NIO’s long-term commitment to the UK, Europe and international collaboration in smart electric mobility.
Mike Hawes said the investment highlights the UK’s continued importance as a centre for automotive engineering, collaboration and next-generation vehicle technology development. He added that facilities such as NIO’s new Witney site help support high-value jobs, skills and the wider transition to zero-emission transport.
NIO now operates R&D centres and manufacturing facilities in more than 10 locations worldwide, including Shanghai, Hefei, Beijing, Nanjing, San Jose, Munich, Oxford, Budapest, Singapore and Abu Dhabi. The company has established sales and service operations across 24 countries and regions spanning China, Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, Southeast Asia and Central America.
Earlier in 2026, NIO produced its one-millionth vehicle, marking another milestone as the company expands its global electric vehicle footprint.
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