Chinese EV maker Nio to launch first smartphone in September

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker is planning to launch its first self-developed mobile phone in late September. With this phone, the company is aiming to improve the appeal of its cars with better software and connectivity. This isn’t the first Chinese automaker to roll out car systems that allow drivers to use their smartphones to perform multiple car-related functions. This includes remotely opening doors, turning on air-conditioning or starting their cars among other functions.

Nio founder’s role in this project

According to a report by Reuters, Nio’s founder and chief executive, William Li, was a key driver of the phone project. With these devices, the automaker is targeting drivers who own Nio cars.