The Philippine automotive landscape is set to welcome a new player in the premium electric vehicle space. Case in point: Avtr, a Chinese luxury electric mobility brand under Changan Auto Group, is set to enter the local market under the Autowise Ventures, Inc. (Auto iCon Group).
The partnership was solidified through a recent signing ceremony event, marking Avatr’s official entry into the local market. To be called Avtr Philippines, the brand will offer a lineup of luxury electric vehicles designed to combine advanced technology, premium design, and intelligent mobility solutions. The move comes as interest in new energy vehicles (NEVs) continues to grow among Filipino consumers seeking alternatives to traditional combustion-powered vehicles.
According to Changan Auto Group Vice President Guan Xin, the Philippine market is showing strong momentum in the EV segment as buyers become more receptive to sustainable mobility options. He noted that Avatr aims to redefine expectations of luxury mobility by bringing together innovation, performance, and sophisticated design.
Leading the initial Avatr Philippines lineup is the Avatr 11, a high-performance luxury SUV powered by a dual-motor system that produces up to 578 hp. The electric SUV is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds, positioning it among the more performance-oriented offerings in the growing luxury EV segment.
Joining it is the Avatr 12, a luxury executive sedan equipped with the brand’s advanced 4D Intelligent Cockpit. The system is designed to deliver a highly connected and immersive driving experience, reflecting the increasing role of digital technologies in modern vehicles.
The range will also include the Avatr 07, an urban SUV that becomes the brand’s first model to offer both battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) powertrains. This gives customers greater flexibility while addressing varying driving and charging requirements.
Auto iCon Group Chairman and CEO Dexter Co said the company aims to position Avatr Philippines as a leader in luxury intelligent mobility. He highlighted the brand’s technology, design, and vehicle portfolio as key strengths that could help it establish a strong presence in the local luxury EV market.
Avatr is scheduled to make its official Philippine debut in the third quarter of the year, supported by full-service 3S dealerships in Alabang and Bonifacio Global City. As the local EV market continues to evolve, the arrival of another premium electric vehicle brand gives buyers more choices in an increasingly competitive segment.
Autocar’s Take
The arrival of Avatr adds another interesting layer to the country’s rapidly expanding electric vehicle market. While EV adoption remains a work in progress, the entry of a dedicated luxury EV brand shows growing confidence in local demand for premium electrified mobility. What shines here is Avatr’s focus on combining performance, technology, and design rather than relying solely on its electric credentials. The Avatr 11, Avatr 12, and Avatr 07 also give buyers multiple body styles and powertrain options from the outset. 2026 is already becoming one of the best years in the local auto industry, and Avtr adds to this observation.
