NIO vs TSLA: NIO Inc. vs Tesla, Inc. Historical Returns & Investment Comparison
This NIO vs TSLA comparison analyzes the historical stock performance of NIO Inc. and Tesla, Inc. side-by-side. Using real, adjusted market data, this tool shows how identical investments in both stocks would have performed over time—highlighting differences in returns, volatility, and consistency across market cycles.
Use the interactive calculator below to adjust the investment amount and time period, visualizing how NIO Inc. and Tesla, Inc. have historically performed against each other.
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Performance Summary
$10,000 invested from 2018 to 2025 (8 years)
Head-to-Head Record
Over the 8-year comparison period, NIO Inc. outperformed Tesla, Inc. in 1 years, while Tesla, Inc. outperformed NIO Inc. in 7 years.
NIO - NIO Inc.
TSLA - Tesla, Inc.
Overall Winner: NIO with an average annual return of 127.25% (vs 87.93% for TSLA)
Understanding NIO vs TSLA Performance
When comparing NIO Inc. and Tesla, Inc., investors should consider multiple factors beyond just total returns. Volatility, consistency of growth, dividend payments, and sector-specific risks all play crucial roles in determining which stock might be better suited for your investment strategy and risk tolerance.
Historical performance data shows how each stock responded to market downturns, economic expansions, and company-specific events. While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, understanding these patterns can help inform investment decisions and portfolio allocation strategies.
Cumulative Growth Comparison
A $10,000 investment in NIO Inc. grew to $7,733, compared to $3,099,947 for Tesla, Inc. over the same period.
Year-by-Year Comparison
| Year | NIO Return | NIO Cumulative | TSLA Return | TSLA Cumulative | Difference | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 (Start) | - | $10,000.00 | - | $10,000.00 | - | Initial Investment |
| 2019 | -3.48% | $9,651.52 | +3.83% | $141,806.19 | -7.31% (TSLA) | TSLA |
| 2020 | -35.16% | $6,257.92 | +34.89% | $191,286.53 | -70.05% (TSLA) | TSLA |
| 2021 | +1210.22% | $81,992.19 | +720.05% | $1,568,646.45 | +490.16% (NIO) | NIO |
| 2022 | -40.77% | $48,560.71 | +44.81% | $2,271,557.11 | -85.58% (TSLA) | TSLA |
| 2023 | -70.87% | $14,146.01 | -69.20% | $699,654.28 | -1.67% (TSLA) | TSLA |
| 2024 | -5.82% | $13,323.39 | +129.86% | $1,608,234.01 | -135.68% (TSLA) | TSLA |
| 2025 | -48.22% | $6,899.05 | +62.56% | $2,614,399.89 | -110.78% (TSLA) | TSLA |
| 2026 | +12.09% | $7,733.00 | +18.57% | $3,099,947.06 | -6.48% (TSLA) | TSLA |
Annual returns include dividends and stock splits. Cumulative values show growth of $10,000 invested from the first year. Positive difference means NIO outperformed TSLA that year.
Company Profiles
NIO Inc.
NIO
NIO is a pioneer and a leading company in the premium smart electric vehicle market. It designs, develops, jointly manufactures, and sells smart electric vehicles, driving innovations in autonomous driving, digital technologies, electric powertrains, and batteries.
Key Innovations
- ✓Battery Swapping technology (Power Swap)
- ✓NOMI (in-car AI assistant)
- ✓Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model
Business Segments
- Vehicle SalesSales of ES8, ES6, EC6, ET7, etc.
- Other SalesSales of energy packages, service packages, and accessories.
Tesla, Inc.
TSLA
Tesla, Inc. is a vertically integrated sustainable energy and artificial intelligence company. Originally founded as an electric vehicle manufacturer, the company has expanded into a global leader in battery energy storage, solar power generation, and advanced robotics. In 2026, Tesla is primarily focused on the commercialization of autonomous transport through its 'Cybercab' (Robotaxi) initiative, the scaling of the 'Optimus' humanoid robot, and the continued deployment of its Dojo supercomputing architecture. The company’s mission is to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy through highly scalable engineering and manufacturing processes.
Key Innovations
- ✓Full Self-Driving (FSD) 'Supervised' Neural Networks
- ✓Cybercab: Purpose-built autonomous Robotaxi without steering wheels or pedals
- ✓Optimus (Tesla Bot): General-purpose, bi-pedal humanoid robot for industrial and domestic labor
- ✓Dojo Supercomputer: Proprietary AI training architecture for computer vision and large-scale data processing
- ✓4680 Battery Cell: Large-format cylindrical battery technology for increased energy density and lower cost
- ✓Giga Press/Unboxed Manufacturing: High-pressure die-casting and modular assembly processes to reduce factory footprint and cost
- ✓Megapack: Massive lithium-ion battery storage system designed to stabilize the energy grid
Business Segments
- AutomotiveThe design, development, manufacture, sale, and lease of electric vehicles. This segment includes the Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, Cybertruck, and the newly launched Cybercab. It also encompasses revenue from automotive regulatory credits, non-warranty after-sales vehicle services, used vehicle sales, and the global Supercharger fast-charging network.
- Energy Generation and StorageThe design, manufacture, installation, sale, and lease of solar energy generation and energy storage products. Key products include the Powerwall for residential backup, the Megapack for utility-scale grid stability, and Solar Roof systems. This segment serves residential, commercial, and industrial customers globally.
- Services and OtherEncompasses vehicle insurance services, retail merchandise, and the maintenance and repair of electric vehicles through company-owned service centers and mobile technicians.
How This Comparison Works
Our stock comparison tool uses adjusted closing prices to calculate year-by-year returns for both stocks. This ensures an apples-to-apples comparison that accounts for:
- ✓Dividends: All dividend payments are reinvested
- ✓Stock splits: Historical prices are adjusted for all splits
- ✓Head-to-head record: Shows which stock outperformed each year
- ✓Statistical analysis: Average returns, best/worst years, and win rates
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Important Disclaimer
This comparison tool is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Historical returns include dividends and stock splits but do not account for taxes, fees, inflation, or individual circumstances. Stock market investments carry risk, including the potential loss of principal. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The data presented is based on historical market data and may contain inaccuracies or delays.