HOT TOPIC
// Rivian spotted testing in New Zealand
Earlier this year in March, American electric vehicle maker Rivian announced it will be developing a more affordable dual-motor drivetrain for its R1S and R1T models with examples recently being spotted testing right here in New Zealand.
- EVs and Beyond says Rivian winter testing ‘Enduro’ power train here
HOT TOPIC
// Mercedes NZ makes agency switch, set to open online store
Mercedes-Benz New Zealand has followed the likes of Honda and Toyota in implementing a fixed-price agency sales model.
- AutoFile says Marque launches agency model
HOT TOPIC
// Thousands of Ferraris recalled over potential brake failure
Ferrari has recalled 23,555 cars made between 2005 and 2022 due to an issue where the vehicle’s braking system could partially or completely fail.
HOT TOPIC
// Another NZAI setback: Bank unable to guarantee future support
NZ Automotive Investments (NZAI) has been dealt another setback, with the firm’s commercial bank confirming that it is unable to guarantee its future with the firm in the wake of its recent leadership announcements.
- AutoFile says Bank unable to provide assurance of support
HOT TOPIC
// EECA seeks submissions on home EV charging
Public feedback on a new 25-page green paper – Improving the performance of electric vehicle chargers – is sought by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).
- Stuff Motoring says EECA kicks off EV smart charger discussions
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BEST OF THE REST
// New crash test exposes risk posed by utes
A new crash test has highlighted the dangers posed by utes and SUVs to sedans and hatchbacks. America’s Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has developed a new side-impact test with a heavier and faster impact to better reflect real-world hazards.
// NZ Automotive faces possible suspension over boardroom wrangle
NZ Automotive Investments (NZAI) faces possible suspension from the NZX if it fails to convince the exchange’s regulatory arm that its latest nominees for the board are independent.
INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS
// Aptera Teases Solar EV’s Interior Ahead Of Full Reveal This Week
Aptera has dropped teaser images of the interior of its solar electric vehicle ahead of the cabin’s full unveiling later this week.
// Flow Batteries For Electric Vehicles?
The idea of installing big bulky flow batteries in electric vehicles has been slowing creeping out of the lab and onto the streets, only without the bigness and bulkiness.
IN OTHER NEWS
// The bizarre Porsche Cayenne convertible that nearly happened
Everyone knows the first generation of Cayenne basically saved Porsche from becoming a school history research project, but not many people know about the Cayenne convertible the brand once considered.
// Jucy addresses ‘critical shortage’ of rentals with $40m spend
Rental vehicle firm Jucy has announced plans to purchase approximately 1000 new rental vehicles as part of a $40m spend aimed at addressing a supposed “critical shortage” of rental vehicles in New Zealand.
// Kia details new Niro Plus hybrid and EV
Kia has announced two new Niro models to join the local line-up, gaining the Plus suffix and bringing more space to the range.
ONE LINERS
- Rare Ford XB Falcon John Goss Special discovered in farm shed
- LDV e-ute and Tesla Model Y in Whangarei EV Expo
- Vehicle imports down 34% in July
- ‘Marked decline’ in car loans
- Priceless metal set to cross the auction block at upcoming Webbs auction
HELPFUL RESOURCES
// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group
Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.
// Current National New Car Deals
Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.
// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder
RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.