HOT TOPIC
// GWM Tank 300 plug-in hybrid coming to NZ
GWM has confirmed that its expanding hybrid off-road line-up will grow again in 2026, with the Tank 300 Hi4-T plug-in hybrid locked in for New Zealand.
- DrivenCarGuide says GWM confirms Tank 300 plug-in hybrid: eco-ranger
HOT TOPIC
// Ford partners with Renault to build new EVs
Renault Group and Ford have confirmed a major strategic partnership that will see the two manufacturers co-develop a pair of Ford-branded electric vehicles for Europe, marking a significant reset in Ford’s EV strategy as it works to regain market share in the region.
- AutoTrader says Renault and Ford strike major EV partnership
HOT TOPIC
// Toyota Hilux engineers in New Zealand: behind ‘cyber sumo’ and why diesel must remain
Two of the engineers behind the new Toyota Hilux visited New Zealand this week, to drive their creation in the South Island.
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BEST OF THE REST
// Ute set for class exemption
Ford Ranger model has towing connection that meets Australian safety standards but not New Zealand’s.
// TR Group highlights major progress in EV and hydrogen fleet in latest FY25 ESG report
TR Group is expanding its low- and zero-emission fleet across New Zealand and Australia as outlined in its FY25 ESG Report, adding more battery-electric trucks, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles and hybrid technology while advancing several decarbonisation trials across its rental and lease fleet.
IN OTHER NEWS
// Public needs protecting from indebted luxury car dealer, judge rules
Beacham European purchased late model vehicles such as Jaguar, Aston Martin and Bentley, refurbished them, then sold them from its showroom, which until recently was on Great South Rd.
// Govt planning overhaul aims to accelerate renewable energy projects
Energy minister Simon Watts says the Government’s overhaul of New Zealand’s planning system will make it faster and cheaper to develop renewable energy projects, backed by new transition measures to give councils and consent holders certainty as the Resource Management Act is replaced.
// All-new Audi Q3 preview in New Zealand: step to the left
Audi New Zealand is previewing the next-generation Q3 compact-SUV for prospective customers from now until March 2026, when the first Kiwi-specification production cars are set to arrive.
INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS
// This Silicon Anode Breakthrough Could Mark A Turning Point For EV Batteries
This is the battery technology that could revolutionize your next EV.
ONE LINERS
- Mercedes-Benz unveils all-new electric GLB
- DHL takes delivery of its first Tesla Semi
- ChargeNet switches on new 200kW hyperchargers at Botany Town Centre
- Z Energy switches on new fast-charging site in Hāwera
- Changes for blue oval
- Will New Zealand get Toyota’s new GR GT supercar?
- Citroën’s new ELO concept doubles as a rolling laboratory
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