Nio Factory Two has joined the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Lighthouse Network (GLN), recognised for a real-time AI platform linking in-vehicle systems, battery swap networks and a digital twin managing more than 3.6 million vehicle configurations. The WEF attributed a 44% speed-to-market gain and 90% automation of research and development workflows to the system.

The GLN, launched by the WEF in collaboration with McKinsey & Company, identifies manufacturing facilities that have delivered measurable results deploying Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies at scale. The network is widely regarded as a benchmark for advanced manufacturing, with Nio Factory Two’s entry announced on 22 June 2026.

Around 80% of manufacturing scenarios at the facility are supported by AI-driven decision-making, drawing on industrial AI algorithms, foundation models and a portfolio of specialised models developed in-house. The WEF noted that intensifying competition in the electric vehicle sector requires tighter integration across product development, manufacturing and quality functions.

The facility has previously been designated a National Green Factory by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and received the Super Automotive Factory title from the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC). Since tours began in 2018, nearly 300,000 visitors have been welcomed across Nio’s two vehicle factories.

Source: Nio