Laser-induced carbons, so-called onion-like carbon (OLC), were investigated for enhanced oxygen reduction reaction activity, excellent durability of catalysts on carbon supports, and adaptability at a low relative humidity (44% RH). OLC nanoparticles were obtained by laser irradiation of ethylene with different reaction positions. The residence time and energy distribution at a reaction zone lead to the formation of nano-carbons with graphitic shells. As a robust support compared to commercial carbon black (XC), the OLC nanoparticle consisting of concentric graphitic layers is fabricated and its structure with sigma-pi hybridizations helps strong interactions between Pt atoms and pi-bond of OLC nanoparticles, preventing the surface migration of Pt atoms, resulting in enhanced durability in long-term operations. It leads that the downshift of Pt d-band center at Pt nanocatalysts on OLC shells structures reduces the adsorption strength of surface oxygen species, enhancing ORR activity. Compared to the Pt/XC, the performance of Pt/OLC nanocatalyst shows 1.27 times more active in low humidity conditions, and 1.36 times more active and durable after long-term operating in extreme conditions occurring carbon corrosion levels. These results exhibit that the Pt/OLC catalyst is expected to generate an incredible level of synergy for enhanced activity and durability. (C) 2019 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.