HOT TOPIC
// Volkswagen teases its most affordable EV yet
Volkswagen is gearing up to introduce its most affordable electric vehicle (EV) yet, previewing a sub-€20,000 (around NZ$36,600) model set to launch in 2027.
- AutoCar says Volkswagen is working on an Up city car replacement
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STATS WEEK
// New vehicle market faces continued challenges
New vehicle registrations in New Zealand in January 2025 totalled 10,863 units, a 14.1% decline from January 2024 and a 13.0% drop from January 2023.
// NZ new-vehicle sales January: ‘subdued’ numbers, but there’s a new ute in the top 10
The arrow is still pointing downwards as the New Zealand new-vehicle industry gets under way for 2025, with January registrations of 10,863 down 14.1% on the same period last year and a 13% drop on January 2023.
IN OTHER NEWS
// Merger of equals on a knife edge?
Reports suggest Nissan is set to call off talks with compatriot Honda over a merger of the two Japanese powerhouses.
// Cold weather slashes EV range by 20% on average: study
A recent study has confirmed what many electric vehicle (EV) owners already suspect – freezing temperatures significantly reduce driving range.
CARJOBS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
// Workshop Controller
Farmer Motor Group Limited | Whitianga, Waikato
Beat the traffic and live by the beach. Work for a successful, award-winning family owned business.
Competitive remuneration, ongoing training, and career development.
// Reconditioning Assistant
Enterprise Motor Group | Hamilton
Work with a fun and dynamic team. Well renowned NZ business. Great culture where employees are genuinely valued.
// Used or New Car Salesperson
Enterprise Motor Group | Gisborne
Great Income. Rostered weekends off. Company car with fuel included. Sell Gisborne’s biggest selection of Used Vehicles. Work with a fun team.
INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS
// Ford CEO: We Need EREVs Because Americans ‘Love Their Big Trucks’
Extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) are a step between hybrids and EVs, with internal combustion motors that act as generators on longer trips.
ONE LINERS
- Porsche Taycan sets EV ice-drifting record: 17km sideways, then the battery went flat
- Unemployment climbs to 5.1%
- Hyundai Tucson II for New Zealand: Korean maker stretches the appeal of its hybrid SUV
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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.