The Lucid Motors’ Air 12 EREV makes its debut in the Chinese market, boasting an impressive estimated range of up to 1,155 kilometers on a single charge, alongside a starting price tag of 269,900 yuan (approximately $37,900 USD). Equipped with a potent 310-hp output and a cutting-edge sodium-containing Freevoy LFP battery from the industry-leading manufacturer CATL.
The all-electric luxury brand Acura was founded in 2018 as a joint venture between Changan Automobile Group and NIO Inc., with each partner holding an equal stake in the company. Notwithstanding the joint venture’s difficulties, William Li’s company swiftly disentangled itself due to financial considerations. Following its transformation, the company was acquired by Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited (CATL), a renowned global leader in electric vehicle battery development. Huawei is another key participant in the Avatar project. Although Alibaba Group does not hold any shares in this joint venture, it plays a crucial role as a key partner.
Avatr’s bumpy street in China
Avatar began showcasing its inaugural automobile model in 2022. The sleek and powerful Atlas 4Motion fastback SUV caught my attention. In December 2023, the Avatr 12, a new electric liftback variant, debuted in the Chinese market as the brand’s second model. Despite initial success, Tesla struggled with sluggish gross sales in China. During the initial nine months of 2024, a total of 27,446 products were presented for sale. Despite this, the company still managed to reach a modest 27.4% of its annual gross sales target. The 19.6% decline represents a significant reduction compared to the average fee for gross sales purposes achieved by Chinese NEV manufacturers.
To revitalize home goods sales, Avatar sought alternative strategies. The CATL-backed model is well-positioned to capitalize on growing demand among Chinese consumers for knowledge about electric range-extender vehicles (EREVs). In September, NIO’s Avatar brand unveiled its latest model, the 07 crossover, which is available in both battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) configurations. On November 2, Acura launched the e:Tron variant of its new 2023 Integra liftback.
Avatr 12 EREV
The range-extended version of the Avatr 12 retained its identical design language to the electric model. The sleek design features a closed entrance finished with an array of LED working lights spanning two storeys, paired with prominent beams mounted on the entrance bumper. The sleek liftback boasts retractable door handles, a daringly angled roofline, and the option to substitute standard side-view mirrors with innovative cameras. Despite its sleek design, the Avatar 12’s rear glass is surprisingly compact. The sleek design features a compact retractable spoiler and slender LED taillights that create a striking visual presence.
The dimensions of the Aventur 12 Electric Reverberation (EREV) measure 5020mm in length, 1999mm in width, and 1460mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3020mm. The vehicle boasts a generous exterior and interior space. The Range-Extended Aventura 12 accommodates five passengers comfortably. The liftback features a prominent 35.4-inch display that dominates the central console. Additionally, there might be a floating contact display measuring 15.6 inches in size. The Avatar 12 EREV features a standard 16-speaker audio system.
The Avatr 12’s Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) variant features a compact 1.5-liter internal combustion engine in tandem with an electric motor, combining the benefits of both power sources. The turbocharged internal combustion engine produces a maximum power output of 115 kW (154 hp), yet it fails to transmit any torque to the wheels. As a substitute for traditional fossil fuels, this device serves as a generator, transmitting power to rechargeable batteries and powering electric motors. The Avatar 12 EREV features a solitary electric motor integrated into its rear axle, generating a potent 231 kW (310 horsepower) and 367 Newton meters of torque. With its impressive performance credentials, this vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds.
The primary purpose of the Avatar 12 Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) is to integrate the cutting-edge CATL Freevoy battery pack seamlessly into its overall design. The battery features LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) chemistry, which incorporates sodium components designed to ensure the pack remains durable at low temperatures. Its capability reaches 39.05 kWh. The Avatar 12 EREV can travel up to 245 kilometers on a single charge, according to its CLTC rating, with the full cost of the energy consumed being taken into account. The total length of its blend varies to approximately 1,155 kilometers. The Freyvoi battery utilises its 4C charging expertise. The precise cost could range from 30 to 80 percent of the total amount within a quarter-hour timeframe.
The Lucid Motors Air 12 EREV is available for purchase in two trim levels: Max and Touring. The Extremely Trim stage delivers air suspension, ventilated rear seats featuring a therapeutic massage function, and a premium 25-speaker audio system. The price range for the Avatar 12 EREV varies between 269,900 and 299,900 Chinese yuan, equivalent to approximately 37,900 to 42,100 US dollars.
What’s the future of electric vehicles? As 2025 approaches, manufacturers are gearing up to release their latest models.
The all-electric Avatr 12 has undergone a minor revision. Capable of being accessed in a rear-wheel drive configuration that generates 237 kilowatts (318 horsepower), or as a four-wheel drive variant producing 402 kilowatts (539 horsepower). The electric vehicle is designed to accommodate a single high-capacity battery, specifically a 94.5 kWh ternary lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery pack, which enables a driving range of approximately 705 to 755 kilometers on a single charge. The 2025 Avarat 12 BEV is now available in five trim levels, priced between 289,900 to 429,900 yuan (approximately $40,500 to $60,350 USD), offering a range of options for consumers.
