NIO announces a new software update for its intelligent vehicle system Banyan. As the central operating system for NIO’s electric vehicles, it enables all intelligent functions. The updates provide noticeable improvements in the areas of driving experience, charging performance, safety and driving assistance functions, navigation, media use and NOMI, the digital voice assistant in the vehicle with artificial intelligence.
Similar to smartphone app updates, Software Over-the-Air (SOTA) updates upgrade the NIO software ecosystem – from the user interface and infotainment system to enhanced connectivity features and new application installations. This not only enhances the user experience, but the software updates seamlessly and continuously improve all digital functions of NIO vehicles – regardless of their year of manufacture. SOTA updates not only keep the vehicles up to date, they also rule out outdated software.
Regular firmware over-the-air (FOTA) updates keep NIO vehicles always up to date – similar to a comprehensive upgrade of the operating system on a smartphone. The updates update all linked functions in the NIO system architecture, from assistance systems and navigation to seat heating and battery management.
One of the highlights is the One-Pedal-Drive function, which allows users to actively slow down and stop the vehicle by simply releasing the accelerator pedal. This eliminates the need to constantly switch between accelerator and brake, which increases comfort and control, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
In assisted driving, the one-button switch on the steering wheel ensures greater safety and comfort by enabling a quick change between Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Centering Control (LCC) at the touch of a button. The Predictive Speed Control HMI now continuously indicates when the vehicle is adjusting its speed to reach the target speed – both when accelerating and braking. In addition, unnecessary warnings from the assistance system when driving manually in roadworks have been removed, while improved detection technology identifies roadworks more accurately, increasing reliability and safety while driving.
Smart EV Routing will provide more accurate estimates of battery levels on arrival by taking into account journey-specific data such as altitude, speed and temperature. Furthermore, one-click navigation allows users to start navigating as soon as a destination is selected and displays a route overview for necessary charging stops if required. Users can also activate the personalized battery range prediction. Based on their individual driving style and the current navigation data, they receive a more accurate prediction of the distance the vehicle can cover with the remaining battery capacity.
The new video app provides access to streaming services such as Disney+ and Apple TV as well as several live TV channels, while the karaoke app enriches the travel experience with an extensive song library from various genres and languages. In addition, the improved Bluetooth music system remembers the last source played so that playback continues automatically the next time you get into the vehicle.
The personal digital voice assistant NOMI with integrated GPT technology offers even more interactivity and personalization with the introduction of new emoji responses and enhanced voice control of the head-up display. The improved telephone interaction also makes it easier to make, answer and reject calls. For added convenience and more efficiency in everyday life, the search for incoming and missed calls, the display of the call list and the connection to the phone have been simplified. For all users who want to get to know NOMI better, the optimized FAQ function of NOMI GPT provides deeper insights into their personality and skills.