Chinese electric vehicle (EV) company ONVO is witnessing a trend where many of its drivers are choosing to downgrade their battery sizes, according to an interview with the company’s president Shen Fei. This shift reflects changing driver needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways
- About 40% of ONVO L90 owners have downgraded from a standard 85 kWh battery to a more economical 60 kWh option.
- The annual rental fee for the smaller battery is lower by 3,600 yuan compared to the larger one.
- ONVO plans to double its network’s total battery capacity in January with an additional 8,000 batteries added to existing swap stations.
Shen Fei shared that a significant portion of ONVO L90 owners are opting for downgrades from the standard 85 kWh battery pack. They’re switching to smaller packs like the 60 kWh model through the company’s Battery as a Service (BaaS) program.
The financial benefits of downsizing include reduced monthly fees and lower overall costs over time. For instance, drivers can save up to 3,600 yuan annually by choosing a less expensive battery plan that better suits their driving habits.
Moreover, ONVO is expanding its network capacity significantly in the coming month. The company will add an additional 8,000 batteries to its swap stations, bringing the total number of available packs from approximately 7,000 to nearly 15,000 by mid-January.
And while some analysts have previously doubted the viability of battery swapping networks, ONVO’s rapid growth and success suggest otherwise. The company continues to prove that its model works for many EV drivers who value flexibility and cost savings over larger batteries with higher upfront costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I save by switching from an 85 kWh battery to a 60 kWh one?
You could potentially reduce your annual rental fee by up to 3,600 yuan.
When will ONVO’s network capacity double?
The company plans to increase its total number of battery packs from around 7,000 to nearly 15,000 by mid-January 2026.
This trend highlights how EV drivers are becoming more savvy about their energy needs and expenses. As the technology evolves, expect more flexible options like ONVO’s BaaS program to become increasingly popular among consumers looking for cost-effective solutions without sacrificing convenience or performance.
