In a groundbreaking milestone for electric mobility, the Avatr 12, a luxury car division of Chinese automaker Changan, has become the world’s first NEV car in Antarctica.
On December 7, 2025, a black Avatr 12 was carefully craned off China’s research polar icebreaker Xue Long (Snow Dragon) onto the ice near the Zhongshan Station (one of China’s key Antarctic research bases), marking the arrival of this futuristic vehicle in one of Earth’s harshest environments.
The Avatr 12’s Antarctic adventure began in early 2025 as part of a strategic collaboration between Avatr Technology, the Polar Research Institute of China, and the China Automotive Technology and Research Center. The project aims to test new energy vehicle (NEV) technologies in extreme polar conditions and to support China’s “Green Polar Research” initiative to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in scientific expeditions. China also commissioned wind and solar clean energy systems at its Antarctic stations.
The mission of the world’s first NEV car in Antarctica
The Avatr 12 is produced by Avatr Technology, a joint venture between Changan Automobile, battery giant CATL, and tech powerhouse Huawei. The idea is to test the vehicle in Antarctica’s harsh environment.
Testing will focus on battery performance, thermal management, braking, steering, and overall system reliability in ultra-low temperatures of -50 degrees centigrade.
Unlike other snow cruisers and modified vehicles, the Avatr 12 is the world’s first sedan to drive on Antarctic snow.
Implications of Avatr 12’s testing in Antarctica
The Avatr 12’s trials could pave the way for greener Antarctic operations. Traditional diesel vehicles require costly fuel shipments and contribute to local pollution. Success here might lead to the development of micro-grids powered by renewables, which then support full NEV fleets at stations like Zhongshan.
In an era where electric vehicles are conquering roads globally, the Avatr 12’s icy debut proves that they are even ready for the world’s final frontier. This isn’t just a test drive; it’s a bold statement that sustainable mobility has no boundaries.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
Very efficiently written information. It will be supportive to anybody who utilizes it, as well as yours truly :). Keep doing what you are doing – i will definitely read more posts.