When we think of car manufacturers, the image of shiny new vehicles and vast assembly lines comes to mind. Yet, a novel trend is sweeping through the automotive world, specifically in China – automakers are dipping their toes into the smartphone arena. Nio surprised many by announcing its first smartphone model last month. A starting price of RMB 6,499 (approximately €829) gets you the Nio Phone, a top-tier Android device. This isn’t just another smartphone. Nio emphasizes a holistic connection between the phone and its electric vehicles. Imagine a smart car key granting remote car control… More…