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So far Dan Angland has created 1402 blog entries.

7th September 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Operating a Dealership at alert Level 2

Prime minister Jacinda Ardern has announced that outside of Auckland, New Zealand will move to COVID-19 alert level 2 at 11.59pm Tuesday September 7.

// More on this

HOT TOPIC

// A true Tesla rival? Mercedes EQE debuts with 660km range

Although it’s been overshadowed somewhat by Mercedes-Benz’s other electric vehicle unveilings earlier this morning (namely the AMG EQS 53 and the EQG Concept), the new EQE sedan is likely to be the most important vehicle of the bunch.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// An icon goes electric: Mercedes reveals G-Wagen EV

Having teased and confirmed its plans for months now, Mercedes-Benz has finally shown off its fully electric version of its trusty old-school G-Class (or G-Wagen), called the EQG Concept.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Convicted car fraudster loses legal appeal

Convicted fraudster and undischarged bankrupt Raymond Anthony Andrews has lost yet another legal appeal according to the The New Zealand Herald.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOSURE

// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

Autosure mechanical breakdown insurance is available for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, and includes AA Roadservice Cover to give your customers peace of mind driving.

BEST OF THE REST

// ‘Apple car’ picks up pace

Apple has hired two former Mercedes-Benz engineers as it reportedly increases its workforce to develop its “Apple Car” electric driverless vehicle.

// Easyauto123 drives Eagers first half result

Eagers Automotive chief executive Keith Thornton has told investors that the Easyauto123 national fixed price used car brand continues to deliver growth with significant year-on-year improvement since the completion of the AHG merger.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Ford Ranger-based hydrogen ute to get $200,000 price tag

Back in July we detailed the H2X Warrego; a hydrogen fuel-cell pick-up based on the popular Ford Ranger, and engineered and built in Australia.

// AC Delco PPE available through Holden parts and service

Holden parts and service outlets in New Zealand are now stocking the new range of AC Delco personal protection equipment (PPE) for trade customers.

// Chaos in supply chain won’t last, top Nissan supplier says

Auto-parts maker Jatco Ltd., majority-owned by Nissan Motor Co., said supply-chain issues disrupting the industry won’t last much longer and carmakers will be able to ramp up production again this fiscal year.

// AC Ace RS electric unveiled

Britain’s AC Cars has unveiled the AC Ace RS electric, continuing the company’s return with hand-built high-performance cars featuring zero-emission powertrains.

// Mainfreight’s profits climbing

Logistics company sees its finances increase from a year ago despite the impact of the latest Covid-19 lockdown.

// Smart previews a compact electric SUV

Now under partial Geely ownership, Smart has shown off a small electric SUV that’s due for production out of China in 2023.

// The Bulldog is back!

A British icon that was designed by Aston Martin in the late 1970’s to show off the capabilities of its new engineering facility, and was intended to become the fastest production car of the time, has been fully restored and revealed to the world.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// 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 Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

7th September 20212021-09-06T23:35:23+12:00

6th September 2021

HOT TOPIC

// New-car sales fall 34.6%

Toyota takes out top two spots while Tesla’s Model 3 surges up the rankings to become the fourth best-seller in August.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Renewing WOF and COF in alert Level 3

Waka Kotahi is reminding vehicle owners in regions which have moved to Covid-19 Alert Level 3 that Warrant of Fitness (WOF) and Certificate of Fitness (COF) inspections are now available at most sites.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Revealed: Audi Grandsphere concept gives us a taste of next A8

Less than a month ago, Audi revealed its wild Skysphere Concept; a two door sports car with an extendable wheelbase and crazed styling.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Hyundai’s new Casper might be the cutest SUV of all time

As far as SUV coverage goes, Hyundai seems to be unmatched in the segment, offering some sort of high-riding vehicle for almost every application.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOSURE

// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

Autosure mechanical breakdown insurance is available for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, and includes AA Roadservice Cover to give your customers peace of mind driving.

BEST OF THE REST

// AC an EV Ace? American icon gets the electric treatment

Who says you can’t teach old dogs new tricks? AC Cars, established in 1901, has announced a new electric model, the Ace RS.

// Electric Vehicle versus petrol power: is a BEV really that much cheaper to run?

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are still a relatively new phenomenon in the New Zealand new-vehicle market. But the big headline about plug-in cars seems to be ultra-low running cost.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Cupra debuts crazy UrbanRebel concept EV

Cupra has revealed a crazy new concept, which will eventually make it to production.

// New vehicle sales up 33% in Australia

New vehicles sales in Australia are up 33% on the same month last year, demonstrating the resilience of the market despite the impacts of lock downs and microprocessor shortages

// Polestar spearheading transparency movement in the car industry

Polestar has done the unthinkable and published the full details of the carbon footprint of its latest models for the general car buying public to see.

// Activity at borders increases

The year-to-date total for used-imported cars is one-third higher than at the same stage of 2020.

// Electric boats making waves without the noise

While the auto industry has raced ahead on an electric wave with more manufacturers joining the race seemingly every day, the boating industry has sputtered far behind, bogged down by low-power engines and batteries that take up nearly half the boat.

// When it comes to cheap cars, kiwis are in love with hybrids

While the domestic new-car world is dominated by utes and SUVs, things are a little different in the second-hand market.

// Top used imports stay same

Whangarei bucks the trend and is the only region to increase sales in lockdown-affected month.

// Foreign firm buys into kiwi EV company as green momentum builds

New Zealand charging network firm ChargeNet has inked a deal with international firm Mercuria, seeing the latter take over a 20 per cent stake in the company.

// Energy efficiency firm rebrands to ESP

ESP has announced a major rebrand to better represent the full range of Efficiency, Sustainability and Performance services provided to clients.

// BMW to tackle climate change by using hemp in its interiors

BMW has been more vocal than most brands in regards to measures it’s taking to shrink its carbon footprint, particularly when it comes to vehicle production.

// Morgan is working on a new 3 Wheeler without V-twin power

Morgan has confirmed it is working on the next generation of 3 Wheeler, although it won’t come with a V-twin rumble.

// Subaru reveals ‘hardcore’ forester. Will it come to NZ?

Following a high profile image leak earlier this week, Subaru has unveiled its new Forester Wilderness in full; a more rugged, more capable version of its popular mid-size SUV.

// A reminder: your Porsche SUV is not a boat

The Porsche Macan is an impressively capable vehicle – fast, comfortable and a thoroughly excellent handler,

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// 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 Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

6th September 20212021-09-05T21:20:08+12:00

3rd September 2021

HOT TOPIC

// New vehicle sales fall 36% during alert Level 4 lockdown

The snap alert level 4 lockdown has seen registrations of new vehicles fall more than 36% in August 2021 to 6746 units in comparison to 10,610 vehicles in August 2020.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Swiss firm’s 20% stake in Chargenet will accelerate EV charging growth

Kiwi EV charging network ChargeNet has signed a deal with global energy trading company Mercuria, which has acquired a 20% stake in ChargeNet.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Tesla’s 400km/h roadster further delayed to 2023

In the midst of New Zealand’s second string of full level four Covid-19 lockdowns, November 2017 feels like it was a particularly long time ago.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Land Rover Defender V8 Bond Edition revealed as a secret agent’s off-roader

It’s a movie that was originally scheduled for release in November of 2019, but pandemic issues has meant that James Bond’s No Time to Die has been pushed back three times, and now is set to release in October of this year.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY SYSTIME

// Do customers really need to visit the dealership to buy a car?

38% don’t think so. Adapting touch points for digital buyers is more important than ever, check out the research on what buyers actually want and how you can adapt your dealership.

BEST OF THE REST

// Award-winning Ram 2500 HD landing soon

The Ateco Group which distributes the RAM Truck brand in New Zealand says the award-winning all-new 2022 RAM 2500 HD models will be arriving in dealerships here in late September

// Revealed: which new cars have the most (and least) problems?

Data accumulation firm J.D. Power has published its annual US-based Initial Quality Survey study for 2021, showcasing which car brands have the least and most problems in the first 90 days of ownership.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Electric Hispano Suiza Carmen stars at Salón Privé

Electric hypercar the Hispano Suiza Carmen is at Salón Privé at Blenheim Palace in the United Kingdom until September 5.

// ACC keen to lift motor-vehicle levies

Have your say on proposals as organisation wrestles with increasing number of claims and rising healthcare costs.

// Rebel with claws

Cupra is pushing forward with electrification, showing off its latest creation, the UrbanRebel Concept, a compact urban all-electric car that also happens to be a racing design.

// US asks Tesla how Autopilot responds to emergency vehicles

The U.S. government’s highway safety agency wants detailed information on how Tesla’s Autopilot system detects and responds to emergency vehicles parked on highways.

// Imported cars keep on moving

Transport company boss reveals how contactless approach has affected operations.

// Three still the magic number for Morgan

Morgan is embracing change of late. Last year it debuted a new chassis for the Plus Four, the first major upgrade for the model in a thousand years, and now it has confirmed a modern three-wheeler is close to reality.

// Leaded petrol eradicated after two decades of effort

Leaded petrol has been eliminated, the United Nations has said, with the final stocks used up last month.

// ‘Game-changing’ car licence Sea electric truck hits the road

The first of the “game-changing” electric-powered SEA 300-45 trucks has rolled off SEA Electric’s Melbourne production line with a car licence driver rating.

// This epic creation is a tri-motor hybrid hovercraft

While electric vehicles are slowly taking over the land and the skies remain free of consumers flying their VTOL flying cars, some people are also trying to take advantage of the abundance of water.

// New face for transport at Nats

Hamilton-based MP takes on portfolio as the party rejigs its line-up.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// UPDATED Current National New Car Deals

REMOVED THIS WEEK

JEEP

  • Jeep Compass – 0% Finance, ⅓-⅓-⅓ Offer
  • Jeep Wrangler – 0% Finance, ⅓-⅓-⅓ Offer
  • Jeep Gladiator – 0% Finance, ⅓-⅓-⅓ Offer

ADDED THIS WEEK

MITSUBISHI

  • TRITON BLACK EDITION 2WD – $44,990 +ORC*

SUZUKI

  • Free Child’s car seat with any new Suzuki

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

3rd September 20212021-09-02T22:02:00+12:00

2nd September 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Video: Masks required for level 3 trading

Masks are required for trading at level 3 according to information received by the Motor Trade Association.

// More on this

HOT TOPIC

// Plug-in hybrid GT 63 revealed as the most powerful Mercedes ever

Plug-in hybrid performance is something that we’ve been seeing in Porshe’s passenger cars for some time now, but it seems that fellow German automaker Mercedes-AMG has finally caught up.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Subaru Solterra EV images revealed

Subaru Corporation says its electric SUV the Solterra (‘sun’ and ‘earth’) will go on sale mid-2022 in the US, Canada, Europe, China and Japan.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Dealer numbers creep down

Register’s total slips by only five in August after drops of 20 or more in the previous two months.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY SYSTIME

// Do customers really need to visit the dealership to buy a car?

38% don’t think so. Adapting touch points for digital buyers is more important than ever, check out the research on what buyers actually want and how you can adapt your dealership.

BEST OF THE REST

// Disrupting Australia’s $55 billion used car market?

Calling itself the Australian used car market disruptor, CARS24 launched its online marketplace on September 1.

// Hyundai EV recall for battery issues affected by Covid restrictions

While Australia has launched its recall of Hyundai Konas and Ioniqs potentially affected by a battery fault, Hyundai New Zealand says it’s in the process of launching the official recall

IN OTHER NEWS

// New Subaru forester wilderness leaked before you’re meant to see it

Subaru has the reveal of three new models on the boil at the moment; the new WRX, Solterra, and Forester Wilderness.

// Lotus to launch EV range, two SUVs

Units of Lotus and electric-vehicle upstart Nio signed an investment pact as the Chinese owner of the iconic maker of British sports and racing cars seeks to transform it into an all-electric brand.

// ACC looks to increase motor vehicle levy rates

ACC has released its proposed levy rates for the next three years which includes an increase for motor vehicles.

// Robotaxi may herald driverless EV era

The electric Hyundai Ioniq 5-based Robotaxi is Motional’s first commercial vehicle and will be used in its fully driverless public ride-hail service starting in 2023.

// Import deliveries far ahead of lockdown indications

Used import registrations in August – according to early provisional numbers – were headed towards a massive month before lockdown.

// Collusion warning for businesses

Watchdog sends out stern message about anti-competitive behaviour at higher alert levels.

// Economy tipped to rise from ‘sharp shock’

Institute predicts inflation pressures will intensify and interest rates will soon start rising.

// Mainland finance settles with ComCom over unreasonable fees

Vehicle finance company Mainland Finance has entered into a settlement with the Commerce Commission acknowledging that it charged unreasonable credit and default fees and agreed to compensate borrowers.

// Finance company to pay out $1.1m

Mainland Finance reaches settlement with regulator over unreasonable charges for car loans.

// Dealers urged to start selling

Industry leader anticipates no problems shifting imported used vehicles from Auckland’s port as lockdown rumbles on.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// 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 Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

2nd September 20212021-09-01T21:44:51+12:00

1st September 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Another Tesla crashes into police car with autopilot reportedly engaged

August has been a big month for Tesla and its semi-autonomous driver assist systems.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// ‘One-off’ Ford Falcon GT sells for $1.8 million, smashes Australian record

An immaculate Ford Falcon GT is the latest Australian car to make headlines for selling over the million-dollar mark, and has smashed the country’s record in doing so.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY SYSTIME

// Do customers really need to visit the dealership to buy a car?

38% don’t think so. Adapting touch points for digital buyers is more important than ever, check out the research on what buyers actually want and how you can adapt your dealership.

BEST OF THE REST

// Video: the importance of mental health with Barry Taylor

In our sixth AutoTalk Live lockdown interview, managing editor Richard Edwards discusses the importance of mental health with consultant Barry Taylor.

// VW working on cut price ID models

Volkswagen is working on a new entry level ID electric model, with the aim of launching it on the European market with a price tag of €20,000 ($NZ33,500).

IN OTHER NEWS

// Watch: Electric Rivian ute demonstrates impressive wading depth

Given the rugged nature of a 4×4 ute, they’re expected to be able to handle the harshest terrain drivers can throw at them, and the new breed of electric utes are no exception.

// Flooding hits West Auckland

Manuka Automotive, Bridgestone Kumeu and Cottle Motors & Auto Electrix are among Kumeu businesses assessing flood damage after torrential rain

// BMW iX3 has film debut in September

The BMW iX3 makes its film debut in Marvel Studios’ Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings screening in cinemas globally starting in September.

// Subscription service appoints chief

Former Audi NZ boss aims to accelerate growth of SIXT NZ for the Giltrap Group.

// Continental developing airbags that could predict your crashes

Although Continental is known best for its range of tyres, the German manufacturer produces a plethora of other goods in different industries.

// Geneva takes virtual approach

Shareholders will still be able to vote and quiz executives as meeting heads online.

// Here’s when Apple could be announcing the new Apple car

While speaking with Reuters about the future of self-driving cars, Nobel Prize winner Akira Yoshino revealed that he expects Apple to lead the next generation of electric vehicle batteries.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// 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 Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

1st September 20212021-08-31T19:50:41+12:00

31st August 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Mixed alert levels for country

Easing restrictions loom for much of the country but a full lockdown will stay in force for Auckland for another two weeks.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// ‘Self-driving’ Toyota hits athlete at paralympic games

Toyota has announced that it will be immediately suspending its self-driving shuttle buses at the Tokyo Paralympic Games, after one of them hit an athlete over the weekend.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Car dealership finds work ready apprentices

For more than a decade Capital City Motors Wellington service manager Tony McDonald says he has been taking two to three apprentices every year from WelTec’s Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level Four) (Managed Apprenticeship) programme.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Rivian may go public with US$80b valuation

Rivian Automotive has filed for an initial public offering (IPO) and is seeking about a US$80 billion valuation as it gears up for production of its R1T ute, according to various reports.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Ultra-rare HSV collection expected to fetch eight-figures at auction

A collection of rare Holdens is expected to fetch eight-figures at auction next month.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// End of an era: VW reportedly dumping manual transmissions

The template for the perfect hot hatch has arguably always been embodied best by the Volkswagen Golf GTI; a forefather of the segment.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY SYSTIME

// Do customers really need to visit the dealership to buy a car?

38% don’t think so. Adapting touch points for digital buyers is more important than ever, check out the research on what buyers actually want and how you can adapt your dealership.

BEST OF THE REST

// Renault reveals electric sedan that you aren’t allowed to buy

In the world of new car technology, there’s three pillars that look set to define the next generation of vehicles.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Test Drive: The $2.85 million Bacalar shows off the best of Bentley

If you want a Bentley Bacalar, you’re too late. Each of the 12 individuals worldwide who purchased the US$2 million (NZ$2.85 million) open-top two-seater has already spent many months developing personalised exterior paint schemes, unique tones for the leather seats, and detailed stitching patterns.

// ‘Car Carnival Night’ drives up China’s auto sales

China’s automobile information company Yiche held a “Super August 18th Car Carnival Night” in conjunction with a top TV station in China.

// ‘Hydrogen Wave’ global forum to reveal hydrogen outlook

Hyundai Motor Group will unveil its vision for hydrogen at a “Hydrogen Wave” worldwide forum it hosts online on September 7.

// Electric aircraft switch progressing well

Electraflyer has announced it has passed crossover, meaning it now sells more battery electric aircraft than polluting ones while Pipistrel sold more than 100 battery electric aircraft last year.

// Thieves strike at dealership

Mystery over how Holden was stolen from Auckland business and taken on a high-speed joy ride.

// Nissan e-Power vehicles heading here?

Nissan Australia has confirmed that e-Power technology is coming down under in 2022 so expect the hybrid technology to be available here in New Zealand as well, probably kicking off in the third-generation Qashqai which launches next year.

// Bentley carbon rims six years in the making

Any car buff will know reducing unsprung mass is good news for dynamics. While big alloys add to the aesthetic appeal of a vehicle, they also add weight in exactly the wrong place.

// Ford may build a Maverick Raptor as well as an ST

Ford is reportedly considering building an off-road-oriented version of the Maverick small truck, as well as a high-performance ST variant.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// 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 Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

31st August 20212021-08-30T23:07:19+12:00

30th August 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Auckland and Northland remain at Level 4, rest of NZ prepares for Level 3

All of New Zealand, south of the Auckland boundary, will move to level 3 at 11.59pm on Tuesday. Auckland and Northland will remain in level 4, likely for a further two weeks,

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Loan company to repay $7m

Business agrees to lower loan establishment fee after contravening Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// THL posts $14.3m loss but vehicle sales rise

Tourism Holdings Limited (THL) has posted a net loss after tax of $14.3 million for its full-year result, down $34.3m on 2020.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Watch: Hyundai teases interesting hydrogen EV sports car

What makes Hyundai fascinating is that it’s got a foot in both camps in the debate of electric cars versus hydrogen cars.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// A German company has (almost) built an electric Kei car

A German company has built a tiny city car – that is pretty close to being a German version of a Kei car – and it’s awesome.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Big enough? Chevrolet’s massive Silverado HD confirmed for NZ

General Motors’ successor to Holden has locked in plans to introduce an enormous new ute in New Zealand.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY SYSTIME

// Do customers really need to visit the dealership to buy a car?

38% don’t think so. Adapting touch points for digital buyers is more important than ever, check out the research on what buyers actually want and how you can adapt your dealership.

BEST OF THE REST

// ‘Cheap’ buff electric ute revealed by American start-up

You get the feeling that the electric ute segment is going to explode over the next few years, given the amount of projects that have been revealed by big players and start-ups respectively.

// Peter Brock’s controversial ‘energy polarizer’ for sale for $10,000

By now most people know that nine-time Bathurst 1000 winner Peter Brock was a fairly complex character,

IN OTHER NEWS

// Remember when the Commodore ute was a star?

Back in the early 2000s, Holden was going great guns as anything wearing a Commodore badge was a guaranteed sales success.

// Nissan joins UN zero emissions campaign

Nissan has become the first Japanese carmaker to join the United Nations’ Race to Zero campaign, accelerating its full electrification and carbon neutrality goals.

// Logistics group eyes shake-up

Business predicts momentum in the domestic economy will continue but warns of short-term supply and capacity constraints.

// Teslas less likely to catch fire than traditional cars, says Tesla

Plenty has been written about electric cars and fires. Just this month General Motors confirmed a huge sweeping recall for all of its Chevrolet Bolt EVs over potential fire risk.

// Skoda nearly built the coolest car of all time. Twice.

Back in the 1970s, Skoda nearly built what could have been the coolest car of all time. Well, it did build one, but considering nobody can buy it, that doesn’t count.

// Great Wall electric ute to offer 450km of range. Is that enough?

We still don’t know a huge amount about Great Wall Motors’ in-the-pipeline electric variant of the Cannon double-cab ute.

// Audi’s new electrification strategy spells the end for ICE models

Audi has revealed its new electrification strategy, called ‘Vorsprung 2030’, which has also spelt the end of its combustion-powered chapter.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// 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 Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

30th August 20212021-08-29T18:01:17+12:00

27th August 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Will Great Wall be the first brand to offer an all-electric ute in NZ?

Ever since the Clean Car Scheme was dropped on New Zealand’s automotive industry back in June, electric and hybrid utes have been at the forefront of debate.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Lockdown prompts warrant worries

Industry figures discuss ways to improve dealing with the renewal of vital land transport documents during higher Covid-19 alert levels.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOHUB

// AUTOHUB | Vehicle shipping and logistics made easy.

AUTOHUB offer the easiest way to import and export vehicles across a range of global shipping routes, securely transporting your vehicle door to door with a guaranteed fixed price.

BEST OF THE REST

// Heavy-duty muscle the American way

Chevrolet will start building right-hand drive Silverado Heavy Duty (HD) LTZ Premium pick-up trucks in November,

// More hope for lithium-metal battery technology

While it might not seem that there are any alternatives currently, lithium-ion isn’t the only battery technology in town. Aluminium-air and lithium-sulphur are two areas showing promise, and so too is lithium metal technology.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Focus ST with an edge

From the forbidden fruit files, Ford has revealed the Focus ST Edition. The focus (groan) of this special edition is enhanced dynamics via suspension upgrades and lighter wheels.

// Vehicle imports bounce back

The value of cars crossing our border soared in July to take total merchandise goods imports to a new high.

// SEA electric showcase at us act expo

Australian-founded SEA Electric will have four different examples from its line-up at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo on August 30 to September 2 in Long Beach, California.

// Dealer brings race car down under

Czech brand predicts strong growth in the region once its R1 vehicle starts racing in early 2022.

// Incredible multi-million dollar HSV GTS-R trio surfaces for auction

Over the last 12 months we’ve seen all sorts of Holdens sell for stupendous amounts of money; from a secret underground (and eventually record-breaking) HSV GTS-R Maloo W1 project, to the last Holden Commodore ever made in Australia.

// Electric Volta Zero truck touring UK September

Electric commercial vehicle manufacturer and services provider Volta Trucks is taking its full-electric Volta Zero around the United Kingdom throughout September

// Sports car faces recall

Toyota NZ offers free repairs on affected vehicles after discovering possible brake problem.

// GM and LG’s too-big-to-fail ties tested by US$1 billion recall

In June 2017, months after General Motors beat Tesla to market with an affordable, long-range electric vehicle, it took out full-page newspaper ads touting how long its Chevrolet Bolt could travel between charges. The tagline: “Begin a long-distance relationship, now.”

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// UPDATED Current National New Car Deals

NO CHANGES THIS WEEK

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

27th August 20212021-08-26T17:05:03+12:00

26th August 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Video: Covid-19 support with Lani Fogelberg

In our fifth lockdown discussion, AutoTalk’s Richard Edwards discusses the support available to businesses with management expert Lani Fogelberg of Fogelberg Consulting.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Vehicle lending bolsters bank’s profits

Heartland welcomes financial growth but it warns current lockdown may dampen momentum.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// NZ car dealers to get refunds from Trademe during due to lockdown

There are very few avenues for New Zealand car dealers hoping to turnover cars during level four lockdown conditions, given that the service is not classified as essential.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// BMW iX pricing announced ahead of Q4 launch

The electric BMW iX is priced from $163,900 for the xDrive40 Sport and $197,900 for the xDrive50 Sport in the lead up to this year’s fourth quarter arrival of both variants in New Zealand

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOHUB

// AUTOHUB | Vehicle shipping and logistics made easy.

AUTOHUB offer the easiest way to import and export vehicles across a range of global shipping routes, securely transporting your vehicle door to door with a guaranteed fixed price.

BEST OF THE REST

// Meet the Tank, China’s homegrown Toyota Land Cruiser rival

Great Wall Motors, or GWM, has been doing interesting work lately. We rated its all-new Cannon ute fairly highly last year, and now it’s unveiled a traditional body-on-frame rival for the Toyota Land Cruiser, called the Tank 600.

// Mazda trademarks interesting rotary-shaped logo

Here we are again with a new Mazda rumour. Well, this one isn’t exactly a rumour, but it’s still somewhat mysterious. Mazda has trademarked a new logo that looks remarkably similar to a Wankel rotor.

IN OTHER NEWS

// MG HS PHEV arrives

MG Motor’s first plug-In hybrid (PHEV) is available from $52,990 plus on-road costs and is eligible for the Clean Car Discount of $5750 which reduces the price to $47,240.

// Brake boost concern causes supra recall

Toyota New Zealand is recalling 51 Supra GRs to rectify a potential issue affecting the brake vacuum pump and the amount of boost it delivers.

// Volta Zero real-world testing underway

Swedish startup Volta Trucks has marked the start of engineering evaluation and real-world testing of the first fully electric prototype Volta Zero.

// Automotive group on the move

Owner of 2 Cheap Cars makes promising start to the financial year as it prepares to relocate its head office and vehicle-processing facilities.

// Listen to the new Corvette Z06, as Chevrolet announces launch date

Chevrolet has confirmed that its first go-faster variant of the mid-engined Chevrolet Corvette C8 is set to be revealed on October 26, or October 27 local time.

// Eroad makes takeover bid

Commerce Commission opens case as Kiwi company seeks clearance to merge with Coretex.

// Listen to the new Corvette Z06, as Chevrolet announces launch date

Chevrolet has confirmed that its first go-faster variant of the mid-engined Chevrolet Corvette C8 is set to be revealed on October 26, or October 27 local time.

// Watch: BMW’s M4 Competition is too drift-happy for the moose test

BMW’s M division is known for building some of the world’s best performance cars, and the new M3/M4 Competition pairing is no exception to this.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// 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 Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

26th August 20212021-08-25T16:49:42+12:00

25th August 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Video: Perfecting listings in level 4 with Jayme Fuller of Trade Me Motors

In our third AutoTalk Live lockdown special, Trade Me Motors head of sales Jayme Fuller joins host Richard Edwards to discuss online listings during lockdown.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Z Energy stations to become Ampol? Aussie takeover bid confirmed

Z Energy stations could soon be rebranded as Ampol stations, following confirmation of a full takeover bid from the Australian fuel company.

// More on this 

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// AUTOHUB | Vehicle shipping and logistics made easy.

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BEST OF THE REST

// AC Cobra electric debuts at British Motor Show

The new AC Cobra Series 1 electric debuted at the British Motor Show, with the tens of thousands of attendees enjoying the car as part of its public premier.

// NZ’s most powerful 4-cylinder ute: New LDV T60 arrives with 160kw

In the competitive ute segment, there will soon be a new powertrain player, bringing more kilowatts to the game than both the Ford Ranger 2.0-litre bi-turbo and the Toyota Hilux 2.8-litre.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Dodge to debut breakthrough fully electric muscle car next year

We might not have to wait as long as initially thought to see Dodge’s new fully electric ‘muscle car’, a model that will apparently be the first EV muscle car in history.

// Dealers warned to check financials before shopping

Dealers should check with their financiers and supply chain before jumping online to buy during the lockdown.

// More delivery delays for new Toyota vehicles

Toyota New Zealand says there will be further delivery delays for customers waiting for their new Land Cruiser 300, Highlander, and Corolla hatch models.

// Container depots overflowing from shipping disruptions

ContainerCo managing director Ken Harris is warning that COVID-19 lockdowns across New Zealand are expected to create further pressure on the heavily disrupted shipping logistics sector.

// AA: 30 minutes can save a battery

Motorists’ group the AA says it’s doing what it can to prepare for a spike in breakdown callouts when lockdown restrictions ease.

// Marque updates luxury SUVs

BMW to offer improved standard features on X3 and X4 and an all-electric variant by the end of 2021.

// Historic Holden Lang Lang test facility could be back on the market

Ever since Holden confirmed it would be closing its doors for good, the future of the brand’s illustrious ‘Lang Lang’ vehicle testing facility has been up in the air.

// Covid spread ails Japanese car output

The prolonged coronavirus crisis in Vietnam, Malaysia and other Southeast Asian nations, where major Japanese automakers source many of their car parts, is seriously affecting Japanese domestic vehicle production.

// Ford wants to sell you an electric crate motor

Ford is preparing a new crate engine, this one catering for fans of full electrification.

// The weird, super-rare Volkswagen Basis-Transporter is about as spartan as it gets

Back in the 1970s, Volkswagen vehicles were in demand for their simplicity and relatively lightweight fuel consumption.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// 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 Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).

25th August 20212021-08-24T16:51:51+12:00
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