The electric vehicle scene is about to get a high-fashion makeover as Chinese automaker Avatr partners with fashion designer Kim Jones, the artistic director of Dior Men and Fendi womenswear, to create a limited edition version called 012 EV. As the name suggests, the 012 will be based on the Avatr 12, just as the 011 limited edition was based on the Avatr 11. This exciting news was unveiled at Avatr's exclusive "Yueji Day'' event on May 19th, a celebration dedicated to Avatr car owners.

Jones, known for his boundary-pushing designs, offered a glimpse into his vision for the 012. In a promotional video, he described the car as an extension of his personal space, seamlessly blending work and leisure. While details remain scarce, the collaboration promises a unique fusion of automotive engineering and high fashion. This isn't Avatr's first foray into fashion-forward EVs. Their previous limited edition model, the Avatr 011, was a collaboration with Matthew M. Williams, former creative director of Givenchy. This model, priced at 600,000 yuan (€ 78,800), was limited to 500 units worldwide and quickly sold out.

Avatr, a joint venture between Changan Automobile, Huawei, and CATL, is positioning itself as a high-end smart EV brand. Their current lineup includes the Avatr 11 and Avatr 12 models, with the Avatr 07 on the horizon. The Avatr 12, a luxury sedan measuring 5.02 meters in length with a spacious 3.03-meter wheelbase, is priced between 265,800 and 378,800 yuan (€ 34,900 to € 49,800). It boasts advanced features like Huawei's HarmonyOS 4 operating system and the ADS 2.0 advanced driving system. Since its launch in November 2023, Avatr has sold over 9,900 units of the Avatr 12.

Despite setting a slightly lower sales target of 90,000 vehicles for 2024, Avatr remains ambitious, with plans to expand its network to over 160 authorized stores across China. The collaboration with Kim Jones further solidifies Avatr's commitment to innovation and luxury in the EV market. Avatr's Chief Design Officer, Nader Faghihzadeh, will also be involved in the 012 project. This partnership between automotive design and high fashion promises to redefine the aesthetics and experience of electric vehicles, offering consumers a unique blend of style, technology, and luxury.