HOT TOPIC
// Farewell BT-50: Mazda’s only ute axed from New Zealand market
After 18 years on sale in New Zealand, the local arm of Mazda has announced that it will no longer sell the BT-50 dual-cab ute here.
- AutoTalk says End of an era for Mazda ute in New Zealand
- Driven says Mazda BT-50 discontinued in New Zealand
- Stuff Motoring says Ute axed from NZ market: Mazda drops BT-50 from line-up
HOT TOPIC
// Mercedes-Benz lauds top dealers
Boss praises retailers after ‘very closely fought race’ for annual awards. Mercedes-Benz New Zealand has recognised business and individual excellence across its cars, vans and financial services networks after handing out a number of gongs at its Retailer of the Year awards for 2023.
- AutoCar says Mercedes-Benz announces 2023 Retailer of the Year award winners
- AutoTalk says Mercedes-Benz recognises top NZ network performers
HOT TOPIC
// Volvo sheds ‘Recharge’ brand with new EX40, EC40 SUVs
Volvo is revamping its electric vehicle (EV) lineup with the introduction of the EX40 and EC40 SUVs, moving away from the XC40 and C40 ‘Recharge’ branding used previously.
SPONSORED BY AUTOFLIP
// 850 dealers in Australia can’t be wrong
With 65 employees and more than 850 dealers using the service in Australia, a strategic Kiwi partnership signed means AutoFlip is coming to New Zealand. Read about it here in AutoTalk, or learn more on the AutoFlip website.
AutoFlip offers dealers a simple way to buy stock quickly, with a wide range of quality vehicles listed daily. And sell aged stock and trade-ins fast, with access to licensed buyers ready to purchase.
Register now to be part of the Feb 2024 official launch
BEST OF THE REST
// EV maker reverts to dealers
EV manufacturer Fisker has announced signing up four dealers across the US in its shift away from direct sales.
IN OTHER NEWS
// Your chance to share ideas
Hunt under way for potential presenters at annual conference on future transport issues.
// Global vehicle sales to slow
The EV transformation will continue in 2024 with battery electric vehicle penetration to reach nearly 15% and hit a third of global sales by 2030 and nearly half five years later.
SPONSORED BY CARBON
“… really good system, worked perfectly …”
The Carbon App allows you to buy and sell CCS CO2 credits at a fair market price with a Payment/Exchange guarantee. It’s a simple to use system which ensures a safe and quick transfer of credits and money for a nominal fee.
As Cade from Affordable Car Sales Christchurch says …
” .. really good system, worked perfectly for what we need. Will be using it continuously for sure. “
INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS
// Germany pulls the plug on subsidies for electric semi trucks and buses
Like it did with passenger EV rebates back in December, Germany has decided to pull the plug on subsidy programs for electric semi trucks and city buses. What happens to the nation’s commercial EV market now?
ONE LINERS
- Cupra Born VZ revealed as 240kW electric hot hatch
- BEV global market penetration forecast around 15% this year
- Toyota NZ CEO appointed co-chair of Business New Zealand MCG CEO Forum
- Nissan’s unique role in the history of a Porsche 959 heading to auction
OTHER STUFF
// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group
Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.
// Advertise Here to reach the Industry
Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.