BASF and NIO signed a Letter of Intent to enhance collaboration and drive innovation in the paints and coatings sector.
BASF Coatings and NIO – a name in the smart electric vehicle market - have announced a strategic partnership to advance automotive exterior coatings for NIO’s electric vehicles.
The agreement establishes a framework for ongoing discussions, with annual strategic dialogues planned to shape and implement the partnership. BASF Coatings and NIO will work together on market and customer development, project management, and the exchange of technical expertise to strengthen their cooperation.
As part of this collaboration, BASF Coatings will supply NIO with a wide range of high-performance coatings tailored to meet specific technical requirements. Additionally, BASF will provide value-added services such as color design and development, digital solutions, sustainability initiatives, workshops, and industry-leading technical support.
“The signing of this strategic partnership builds upon a decade of successful collaboration. NIO has established itself as a leader in the electric vehicle industry through cutting-edge technology and a strong brand identity. Together, we will continue to explore innovative coating solutions that support NIO’s sustainability targets and future growth,” has said Uta Holzenkamp, President of BASF Coatings.
NIO has officially recognized BASF Coatings as its strategic partner for automotive exterior coatings, reinforcing their shared commitment to sustainability and innovation. The partnership will focus on the development and application of advanced coating materials and technologies, supporting global sustainability initiatives and carbon neutrality goals.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the automotive industry as both companies align their expertise to shape the future of electric vehicle coatings. Through innovation and strategic cooperation, BASF Coatings and NIO are set to redefine standards in the automotive coatings sector.
About NIO
Founded in 2014, NIO is a global smart electric vehicle company dedicated to developing high-performance EVs and delivering exceptional user experiences. The company operates three major brands—NIO, ONVO, and Firefly—and has established a strong presence in the premium smart EV market. As of January 31, 2025, NIO has delivered 685,427 vehicles worldwide, leading the premium battery-electric vehicle (BEV) segment priced above RMB 300,000.
With extensive research and development capabilities, NIO has filed for and obtained more than 9,800 patents. The company has R&D and manufacturing facilities across multiple global locations, including China, the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. Additionally, NIO has developed the NIO Full Stack, an integrated collection of 12 technology domains, reinforcing its leadership in smart electric mobility.
About BASF Coatings
BASF Coatings, a division of BASF, specialises in the development, production, and marketing of innovative and sustainable coatings for automotive OEMs, refinish applications, decorative paints, and applied surface treatments. With a global presence across Europe, North America, South America, and Asia Pacific, the company leverages a collaborative network to deliver cutting-edge performance solutions.