Electric Speedster: A Right-Hand Drive Adventure

A sighting of a right-hand drive variant of the Avatr 06T in the UK suggests that the electric sports wagon may soon be available in Australia. Images shared on the Facebook group “Rare And On The Road” reveal that the Chinese premium brand Avatr is expanding its testing to other right-hand drive markets, with plans confirmed for Thailand back in April 2026.

Recent reports indicate that Avatr has been conducting evaluations in Australia, capturing the 07 mid-size SUV on camera in the Melbourne suburb of Point Cook. Avatr, a brand under the umbrella of Chinese automotive giant Changan, is gearing up to introduce both Avatr and its namesake brand to the Australian market.

The range-topping 06T Performance model is anticipated to deliver an impressive 712kW and 996Nm of torque from its three electric motors, drawing power from an 87.3kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack. The all-wheel-drive 06T Performance is expected to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 2.78 seconds, with a range of 710km based on NEDC standards.

Following the 06T Performance is the rear-wheel-drive 06T Max, equipped with dual electric motors producing a combined 502kW and 750Nm. This model features an 87.3kWh battery, providing a driving range of 710km (NEDC) and a claimed 0-100km/h time of 3.74 seconds. The entry-level 06T Elite also boasts two electric motors generating 450kW and 750Nm, with a 72.8kWh battery delivering a range of 620km (NEDC).

Avatr also offers a range-extender powertrain, known as an EREV, which combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine with a 45.1kWh battery to power dual electric motors, resulting in a total system output of 370kW. The EREV version offers a total driving range of 1200km, with an electric-only range of 300km based on NEDC testing.

While the 06T set for the Thai market will be exclusively electric, the 06T lineup showcases a blend of performance and luxury features. The 06T boasts front double-wishbone suspension, multi-link rear suspension, hydraulic bushings, and adaptive shock absorbers in the Elite and Max variants, while the Performance variant is equipped with air suspension.

Inside the Avatr 06T, a 35.4-inch panoramic screen spans the dashboard, housing the digital instrument cluster. Infotainment is managed through a 15.6-inch central touchscreen, controlling a 2016-watt Meridian audio system with 25 speakers and 7.1.4 panoramic surround sound. The vehicle also features ‘anti-gravity’ front 14-way power seats, crafted from Nappa leather and offering ventilation, heating, and massage functions.

Additional interior highlights include a Dinamica microfibre suede headliner, customizable Birch or Ash wood trim, and advanced technology such as side mirror cameras and front power doors. Pricing for the Avatr 06T Performance starts at 279,900 Yuan, translating to approximately A$58,300, excluding additional fees and taxes.

Interestingly, the Avatr 06T is priced competitively against the Zeekr 7GT, another electric performance wagon, with the Zeekr confirmed for the Australian market. Changan has yet to announce the official launch of the Avatr and Changan brands in Australia, although job postings on LinkedIn suggest preparations are underway.

Overall, the Avatr 06T joins the 07 and 11 SUVs as part of the brand’s expansion into right-hand drive markets, promising a blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology for discerning consumers. Stay tuned for more updates on the Avatr 06T and other upcoming models from this innovative Chinese automaker.