NIO's stock (09866.HK) experienced a significant drop, plummeting 5.10% during Thursday's trading session. This decline surpassed earlier predictions and showcased heightened investor concerns in the electric vehicle (EV) sector.

The primary catalyst for NIO's sharp decline appears to be the looming threat of US tariffs on Chinese car imports. This development has cast a shadow over Chinese EV manufacturers, with NIO bearing the brunt of the negative sentiment. The potential for increased tariffs could significantly impact NIO's expansion plans and competitiveness in the crucial US market.

While the broader Hong Kong market showed resilience, with the Hang Seng Index rising 1.6%, Chinese EV makers faced particular pressure. XPeng, another prominent Chinese EV manufacturer, was also affected, though to a lesser extent, with its shares set to open down 1.1%. This sector-wide pressure underscores the significant implications of potential US trade policies on the global competitiveness of Chinese EV brands.