(Yicai Global) Aug. 26 -- Avatr Technology, a startup backed by Changan Automobile, and Huawei Technologies intend to come up with more vehicle models after orders for the pair's first jointly developed car exceeded 20,000.

Three new models will be launched before 2025, with two already under development, Tan Benhong, chairman and chief executive of the Chongqing-based automaker, told Yicai Global.

Orders for the Avatar 11, the startup’s first model, should start being fulfilled in December, Tan said. They cost between CNY369,900 and CNY409,900 (USD53,910 and USD59,740) each.

Huawei is planning to join hands with Avatr on developing more models, the Shenzhen-based telecoms equipment giant, which also develops smart driving software, told Yicai Global.

Huawei has been seeking new growth opportunities in self-driving field. The firm’s research and development spending of smart vehicles topped USD1 billion last year, according to rotating Chairman Xu Zhijun. Its tie-up with Avatr is a chance to further strengthen R&D to fast track the integrated development of vehicles and information, Xu added. 

Besides Avatr, Huawei has partnered on new energy vehicles with BAIC Group and Sokon Industry Group's NEV brand Seres. But the level of partnership is different. Avatr 11 has Huawei's full-stack solution Huawei Inside, which includes communication architecture and a smart cockpit.

Avatr penned a deal with Huawei in June to develop a series of high-end smart electric vehicles. They agreed to constantly upgrade the offering based on CHN, a technology platform co-developed by Changan Auto, Huawei, and battery titan Contemporary Amperex Technology.

Editor: Emmi Laine, Xiao Yi