CATL-Backed Avatr Secures 8.25% Market Share in UAE’s High-End NEV Segment

Abu Dhabi : A new Chinese luxury EV brand makes strong waves in the UAE’s premium electric car segment, showing major promise in the competitive NEV space.

• Avatr reaches 8.25% market share in UAE’s high-end NEV market by April 2025.
• The brand offers two models: Avatr 11 fastback SUV and Avatr 12 coupe.
• Plans include opening a Dubai service center and regional expansion.

Avatr, a Chinese luxury electric car brand backed by CATL, has made a notable entry into the UAE market. Since its debut in January 2025, Avatr has captured an 8.25% share of the high-end New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market.

This milestone reflects the brand’s aggressive push into global markets, especially as it looks beyond China’s highly competitive EV space.

The brand was formed as a joint venture between Changan, CATL, and Huawei. While its presence in China has grown gradually since its launch in 2022, Avatr has identified the UAE as a critical part of its global strategy.   

Strong Entry With Limited Models

Avatr opened its first showroom in Dubai in January 2025. Within a few months, the showroom received more than 260 vehicles and delivered over 100 units to customers. Currently, the UAE lineup includes:

• Avatr 11: A stylish fastback SUV offering premium features.
• Avatr 12: A luxury coupe designed to match performance with elegance.

These two models have powered the brand to a strong 8.25% market share in the premium NEV segment. With growing customer interest in electric luxury vehicles, Avatr’s early performance signals strong local demand.

UAE’s Role in Avatr’s Bigger Strategy

According to the China EV DataTracker, Avatr sold a total of 110,375 units in China between December 2022 and April 2025. While this number may not be large in the Chinese market, it has pushed the brand to look outward.

The UAE, now the second largest importer of Chinese cars as per the China Passenger Car Association, offers an attractive opportunity.

Avatr is moving quickly to strengthen its foundation in the region. In June 2025, it will open a 1,200-square-meter service center in Dubai to support its growing customer base. This move is expected to increase customer confidence and drive further growth.

Middle East Expansion Plans Ahead

Beyond the UAE, Avatr has its eyes set on the wider Middle East. In a major step last year, the company signed a strategic cooperation deal with Al Saqer Group to support the launch of multiple Changan brands. Changan Automobile plans to:

• Introduce Avatr, Deepal, and Qiyuan brands across the Middle East.
• Finalize the launch of a regional subsidiary.
• Start construction of a dedicated spare parts center.

These efforts show a clear plan to build long-term value in the region by supporting aftersales, logistics, and brand presence.

A Rising EV Challenger in UAE

Avatr’s rapid growth in the UAE highlights the strength of Chinese NEV brands in overseas markets. Backed by CATL and supported by strong partnerships, Avatr’s strategic steps—ranging from showrooms to service networks—position it as a serious player in the UAE’s premium EV sector. With local expansion underway and regional plans in motion, Avatr is just getting started.