by Technology and Design of the Avatr 11
Advantages: Many technological features, premium interior, interesting design.
Disadvantages: Boring handling dynamics, limited rear visibility, potential technology overload.
Chinese automakers are actively trying to compete with Tesla by creating technologically saturated electric vehicles. Many of these brands have powerful support, including state support, which allows them to quickly respond to the needs of the local market. However, success in China does not always guarantee success on the international stage, where they have to compete with already well-known global manufacturers.
As an Avatr representative notes, the company is aware of these challenges, therefore it actively involves European specialists, including the head of the design center in Munich, who previously worked at BMW.
Avatr was created jointly with Changan and Nio, but later Huawei and CATL joined the project, giving it additional technological advantages.
Key Characteristics
Interior and Comfort
The Avatr 11 demonstrates that Chinese manufacturers are capable of creating true premium automobiles. The interior is made using high-quality materials such as Nappa leather, aluminum elements, and a 25-speaker Meridian audio system. The steering wheel is also leather-wrapped, emphasizing the high level of comfort.
All doors open and close with electric actuators, adding modernity to the car. Front passengers have separate 10.25-inch screens, and the central 15.6-inch screen provides convenient control of the car’s systems.
The seamless integration of Huawei’s HarmonyOS makes the interface smooth and intuitive, which favorably distinguishes it from many traditional systems.
However, some functions, such as ventilation settings, require using the screen, which can be inconvenient for the driver.
Exterior Appearance
The design of the Avatr 11 looks attractive from various angles, thanks to the high window line, large wheel arches, and 22-inch wheels. The matte gray finish of our test car may not best highlight its shapes, but overall the exterior looks interesting and non-standard.
The rear window is small, but the design with “flying” buttresses is reminiscent of the Jaguar XJS. Although the Avatr 11 is classified as a crossover, its shape has sedan-like features, making it unique in the market.
Road Characteristics
During the test drive, the Avatr 11 proved to be a comfortable, but not sporty, car. The handling can feel detached, and the large wheels are prone to “wandering” on the road. However, the suspension provides a smooth ride, even without an air suspension system.
The braking system with four-piston Brembo calipers makes the car safe, although the acceleration dynamics are not impressive — 7.4 seconds to 100 km/h for the base version. An all-wheel-drive variant with 425 kW power is also available, accelerating to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds.
Impressions and Conclusions
The Avatr 11 impresses not with individual characteristics, but with the overall harmony of technology, comfort, and design. It offers something more than typical Chinese electric vehicles and could become a serious competitor for European brands. The combination of European style and Chinese technology makes it attractive for the international market.
Growing competition from manufacturers like Avatr may spur traditional auto giants to improve their own products, which ultimately benefits consumers. This is especially important in the context of the rapid development of the electric vehicle industry, where innovation becomes a key success factor.
