---

HOT TOPIC

Shelby’s new Speedster might be the best-looking Mustang of all time

While a lot of brands have tried their hand at modifying Ford’s Mustang over the years, none have been more successful than Shelby with its ridiculous supercharged line-up.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/shelby-s-new-speedster-might-be-the-best-looking-mustang-of-all-time/

Shelby announces 2021 Mustang range

American Ford Mustang tuner Shelby American has announced its 2021 models, including the Shelby GT which is available here at prices starting from $132,000.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/shelby-announces-2021-mustang-range

Shelby unveils stunning Mustang ‘Speedster’ super snake

Which of Ford’s pony-car Mustangs is the best looking? It’s a topic we could likely dwell on until the cows come home; any of its works from 1970, most of its racers, and maybe even the odd modern-day Shelby GT350 or GT500 could all claim to be contenders for the title.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/shelby-unveils-stunning-mustang-speedster-super-snake

---

HOT TOPIC

An initial look at Kia EV6 prior to its official debut

Kia today released images of the EV6, its first pure EV, prior to its imminent global debut. It is the result of a collaborative effort between Namyang (Korea), Frankfurt (Germany), and Irvine (California, US) design studios.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/kia-shows-off-ev6-ahead-of-its-launch

KIA EV6 – more photos

Kia has revealed the first images of the exterior and interior design of EV6, its first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV), ahead of the car’s world premiere later this month.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/kai-ev6-more-photos

---

HOT TOPIC

Family takes EV road trip with Turners subscription

The Saunders-Smeath family from Northland are amongst the first in New Zealand to use an innovative new EV service available from Turners Subscription.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/family-takes-ev-road-trip-with-turners-subscription/

Electric vehicle trial begins in Northland

Turners’ new subscription service has added ten Nissan Leafs to its fleet. The initiative, co-funded by EECA, is a new programme designed to accelerate the uptake of EVs in New Zealand.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/electric-vehicle-trial-begins-in-northland-2021

---

BEST OF THE REST

Renault diamond revamped for the digital era

The ninth iteration of the Renault diamond logo first appeared behind chief executive offier Luca de Meo at the announcement of the Renaulution plan as well as on the grille of the Renault 5 Prototype.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/renault-diamond-revamped-for-the-digital-era

---

IN OTHER NEWS

Hastings VTNZ testing station site for sale

The freehold land and buildings housing Vehicle Testing New Zealand’s Hastings testing station in the Hawke’s Bay are for sale. VTNZ has occupied the Orchard Road premises in the Omahu industrial area, three kilometres west of the Hastings city centre, since the mid-1990s.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/hastings-vtnz-testing-station-site-for-sale

---

South Island dealers share 2020 Toyota supreme award

South Island dealers Bowater Toyota and South Canterbury Toyota are the joint recipients of the 2020 Toyota Supreme Award.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/south-island-dealers-share-2020-toyota-supreme-award

---

Virtual ride in hydrogen truck

A “Hydrogen Now” event run by Hyzon Motors on March 17 will showcase a virtual ride along in a zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) powered truck at Hyzon’s production-ready Groningen facility in The Netherlands.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/virtual-ride-in-hydrogen-truck/

---

Nissan to expand renewable energy generation

Nissan plans a 20MW solar farm extension to add to renewable energy generation at its Sunderland plant in the United Kingdom.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/nissan-to-expand-renewable-energy-generation/

---

Porsche increases stake in Rimac Automobili

Porsche has upped its stake in electric hypercar company Rimac Automobili from 15 to 24%.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/porsche-increases-stake-in-rimac-automobili/

---

Keen interest in electric Skoda Enyaq iV

The Skoda Enyaq iV is available to order in the United Kingdom starting from 31,085 pounds and with a choice of two battery sizes (62kWh and 82kWh).

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/keen-interest-in-electric-skoda-enyaq-iv/

---

Jaguar celebrates e-type anniversary with sublime recreations

One of the most talked about and revered designs in automotive history turns 60 years old in 2021, and looking at the way it’s aged over the decades, you wouldn’t know it.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/jaguar-celebrates-e-type-anniversary-with-sublime-recreations

---

Sales of electric cars worldwide almost doubled in 2020

It’s no surprise that electric car sales are on the up, given how many manufacturers around the world have committed themselves to the technology. But, few are likely to have picked just how much the genre’s sales would have grown in 2020.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/sales-of-electric-cars-worldwide-almost-doubled-in-2020

---

Watch: Maserati’s MC20 supercar gloriously thrashed through the snow

As far as promotional videos for supercars go, Maserati has hit the nail on the head with this one for the new MC20, which is set to hit showrooms around the world before the end of the year.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/watch-maserati-s-mc20-supercar-gloriously-thrashed-through-the-snow/

---

Pure-electric Polestar 2 is coming to New Zealand – just don’t call it a Volvo

Polestar, Volvo’s dedicated Electric Vehicle (EV) brand, is set on major expansion this year. It has announced plans to sell the Polestar 2 Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) in five new markets in the Asia Pacific region this year – including New Zealand.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/pure-electric-polestar-2-is-coming-to-new-zealand-just-don-t-call-it-a-volvo/

---

TreeFund: How Honda New Zealand is being very green

Plant a tree: it’s often said metaphorically, meaning do a little something to help the environment as you go about your business.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/treefund-how-honda-new-zealand-is-being-very-green/

HOT TOPIC

Best to worst: New Zealand’s car insurance providers ranked

New Zealand’s top-rated car insurance brands have been revealed as part of the inaugural Finder Awards.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124516754/best-to-worst-new-zealands-car-insurance-providers-ranked

NZ’s best car insurance companies revealed

A new study has ranked and rated New Zealand’s eight best car insurance companies out of 20 popular name-brand candidates.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/nz-s-best-car-insurance-companies-revealed

---

HOT TOPIC

Toyota boss talks smack about Apple car prospects

The long and meandering journey tech giant Apple has had in its push to make a car took an interesting series of turns earlier this year.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/toyota-boss-talks-smack-about-apple-car-prospects

Toyota chief’s warning to Apple: the car business isn’t easy

Toyota Motor President Akio Toyoda offered a warning to Apple, which is plotting a foray into the auto industry: There’s more to the business of selling cars than just having the technology to produce them.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300250833/toyota-chiefs-warning-to-apple-the-car-business-isnt-easy

---

HOT TOPIC

New Zealand’s ‘biggest supercar show ever’ detailed

Giltrap Group has released details of its inaugural Starship Foundation Supercar Show, set to be hosted at its 119 Great North Road, Grey Lynn premises next month, on April 11.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/new-zealand-s-biggest-supercar-show-ever-detailed

Giltrap group hosting Starship supercar show

On Sunday April 11, 2021 the Giltrap Group’s showrooms at 119 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, will host the Starship Supercar Show to raise funds for the children’s hospital.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/giltrap-group-hosting-starship-supercar-show

---

HOT TOPIC

Inspections to clampdown on cars with ITS Connect

Toyota and Lexus models hit by advice to damage-flag cars featuring technology prohibited in New Zealand.

https://autofile.co.nz/clampdown-on-its-connect-systems-

ITS connect systems must be disabled in Japan

From April 1, 2021 Waka Kotahi/NZTA is requiring all Border Inspection Organisations to identify and damage-flag all Japanese cars with an ITS Connect system that operates on the 760MHz frequency, which is not compatible with the licensing framework in New Zealand.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/its-connect-systems-must-be-disabled-in-japan

---

HOT TOPIC

Cute ute? dinky new electric pick-up unveiled

It feels like we’ve been talking about the fabled fully electric ute for years and years now, but finally it looks like light is appearing at the end of the tunnel.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/cute-ute-dinky-new-electric-pick-up-unveiled

Canoo’s electric ute leaked

A Canoo electric ute (pickup truck in the US) featuring powered workbenches, tool storage, a modular expandable bed and more has been revealed on Reddit.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/canoos-electric-ute-leaked/

---

BEST OF THE REST

Nine european countries push to ban petrol and diesel cars

A group of European Union member countries, including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Greece, Ireland, and the Netherlands, are all in the process of lobbying for an end-date to be established for the sale of new pure internal combustion vehicles on the continent.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/nine-european-countries-push-to-ban-petrol-and-diesel-cars

---

IN OTHER NEWS

Portage cars opens fourth used-car dealership

Imported used-vehicle dealer Portage Cars has opened its fourth dealership in Takanini, South Auckland to meet growing demand.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/portage-cars-opens-fourth-used-car-dealership

---

Renault to supply European ‘sister models’ to Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi Motors dealers in European markets will offer a model mix of the Eclipse Cross PHEV and two ‘sister models’ produced by alliance partner Groupe Renault from 2023.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/renault-to-supply-european-sister-models-to-mitsubishi

---

Air taxis to take off

The market for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxis will reach US$14.7 billion by 2041.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/air-taxis-to-take-off/

---

April 12/13 new EV conference dates

EVs and Beyond’s The EVent conference will run on April 12 and 13, 2021, following its postponement prompted by Auckland’s COVID-19 March lockdown.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/april-12-13-new-ev-conference-dates/

---

Video: Honda e quick drive

We check out the electric Honda e that Drive EV Taupo has here, and its plans to bring in more.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/video-honda-e-quick-drive/

---

US$42m funding allows sea electric expansion

Following substantial growth in new markets, global automotive technology company SEA Electric Holdings Pty Ltd – which has a New Zealand facility

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/us42m-funding-allows-sea-electric-expansion/

---

Tesla ‘full self-driving’ incapable of self-driving?

Tesla lawyers admit the NZ$11,400 option that Tesla sells as Full Self-Driving Capability is incapable of full self-driving. “Currently neither Autopilot nor FSD Capability is an autonomous system,”

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/tesla-full-self-driving-incapable-of-self-driving/

---

Can Jeep’s new luxury SUV be a Land Rover killer?

After unveiling a stunning concept Grand Wagoneer last September, Jeep has revealed both the Grand Wagoneer in its production guise, as well as identically sized but slightly less-grand standard Wagoneer.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/can-jeep-s-new-wagoneer-luxury-suv-be-a-land-rover-killer

---

Honda, Piaggio, KTM and Yamaha have teamed up on batteries

Four of the biggest players in the motorcycle game have teamed up to work on swappable batteries for electric motorbikes.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124508720/honda-piaggio-ktm-and-yamaha-have-teamed-up-on-batteries

---

It just got easier to fit an EV into your life

One of the main obstacles a lot of people face when considering whether to make the switch to an electric vehicle is whether it will actually suit their lifestyle.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124492042/it-just-got-easier-to-fit-an-ev-into-your-life

---

Quick Charge 13/03: this week in EV news

Following shortly after Hyundai revealed its upcoming Ioniq 5 EV, Kia has teased its strangely similarly-sized electric SUV called the EV6. Strangely similar because it is based on the same architecture, of course.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124496803/quick-charge-1303-this-week-in-ev-news

---

Hyundai teases hot Kona N SUV

Hyundai has offered a glimpse at the new high-performance Kona N. The go-fast Kona will be the first time Hyundai’s N division has tuned an SUV, but the release doesn’t mention anything about power.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124503657/hyundai-teases-hot-kona-n-suv

---

Watch: Which ‘Clean’ car is best? Zooming with DRIVEN

This week for Expert Car Picks, we’re talking about the government’s new ‘Clean Car Standard’, and the cars that we would choose within the restrictions.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/watch-which-clean-car-is-best-zooming-with-driven/

---

The Good Oil: When Toyota Yaris met the America’s Cup… in 1999

The new Toyota Yaris is bold, brilliant and highly acclaimed (just announced as European Car of the Year, no less). But it’s not the first time it has stunned and surprised.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/the-good-oil-when-toyota-yaris-met-the-america-s-cup-in-1999/

---

HOT TOPIC

Polestar is back! Electric car brand confirmed for NZ

After occupying local market ‘forbidden fruit’ status for a few years, electric car specialists Polestar have confirmed that they will be establishing themselves in New Zealand.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/polestar-is-back-electric-car-brand-confirmed-for-nz

Polestar heading downunder

It started life as an independent racing team, got bought by Volvo to become the brands official racing team, then became the performance sub-brand for Volvo road cars and finally became a car maker in its own right under Geely ownership.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300249782/polestar-heading-downunder

Polestar coming to NZ

Premium electric car brand is expected to operate on an importer basis, with local partners yet to be confirmed.

https://autofile.co.nz/polestar-coming-to-nz-

Polestar 2 coming to Australia and New Zealand

Polestar has announced it will launch its all-electric Polestar 2 in the Australian and New Zealand markets, as well as South Korea, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/polestar-adding-five-new-markets-across-asia-pacific

---

HOT TOPIC

Toyota teases electric SUV

Toyota will launch its X Prologue electric SUV on March 17. No details are yet available, with media pondering whether it’s a single model or a series.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/toyota-teases-electric-suv-2

Is this Toyota’s first electric car? New vehicle teased

Toyota has released a mysterious new image of what it calls the ‘X Prologue’. Speculation about the model is has been running rampant online, with most suggesting that it is set to be Toyota’s first EV.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/is-this-toyota-s-first-electric-car-new-vehicle-teased

---

BEST OF THE REST

Tesla admits ‘Full Self-Driving’ option is not actually capable of self-driving

For years, Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk has been telling the public that fully autonomous Teslas are just around the corner, no more than a year or two off.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124503865/tesla-admits-full-selfdriving-option-is-not-actually-capable-of-selfdriving

---

IN OTHER NEWS

Honda Australia moves to NZ agency model

Honda Australia has revealed the details of its new fixed-price agency model which will roll out across its revised national dealership platform from July 1.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/honda-australia-moves-to-nz-agency-model

---

Turners upgrades FY21 earnings guidance

Turners Automotive Group has upgraded its FY21 net profit before tax (NPBT) guidance to $35 million from its earlier January figure of $33 to $35 million.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/turners-upgrades-fy21-earnings-guidance

---

Ports of Auckland reports gloomy half-year result

Ports of Auckland has posted net profit after tax of $13.6 million for the six months to December 31, down $3.6m from the same period last year.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/ports-of-auckland-reports-gloomy-half-year-result

---

Eroad targets North America and Australia with new appointments

Transport technology company EROAD is making new appointments to its management team with an eye on market growth in North America and Australia.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/eroad-targets-north-america-and-australia-with-new-appointments

---

Uber report highlights post-lockdown recovery

Uber New Zealand has released its first Movement Index, revealing the changes to Kiwis’ travel patterns and food habits in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/uber-report-highlights-post-lockdown-recovery

---

Nigel Barbour appointed Orion Group chief executive

Nigel Barbour is Orion Group’s new chief executive and will move to Christchurch to take up the role on July 1 with EVs becoming an increasing consideration for the electricity industry.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/nigel-barbour-appointed-orion-group-chief-executive/

---

Vehicle spending slides

Shifting Covid-19 alert levels put a dampener on shopping activity across all sectors.

https://autofile.co.nz/vehicle-spending-slides-

---

Kia offers glimpse of electric future

Korean marque closes in on the official launch of the first of 11 new EVs it plans to have on sale before 2026.

https://autofile.co.nz/kia-offers-glimpse-of-electric-future-

---

More time for conference submissions

T-Tech set to focus on sustainability, safety and equity for annual event in the capital.

https://autofile.co.nz/more-time-for-conference-submissions-

---

Have your say on Trade Me deal

Commission invites comments about the likely competitive effects of proposed acquisition.

https://autofile.co.nz/have-your-say-on-trade-me-deal-

---

Hyundai aiming for ‘large scale’ hydrogen vehicle adoption in NZ

Hyundai New Zealand hopes that a recent government funding win will help encourage more in the commercial sector to investigate hydrogen as a next-generation option for trucking fleets.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hyundai-aiming-for-large-scale-hydrogen-vehicle-adoption-in-nz

---

Volkswagen boss doesn’t think hydrogen is a proper EV rival

You can already see it… motoring enthusiasts of the future will be having rousing debates not about Holden versus Ford or six-cylinder versus eight, but instead about electric versus hydrogen.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/volkswagen-boss-doesn-t-think-hydrogen-is-a-proper-ev-rival

---

Mercedes-Benz NZ adds another G Wagen to the mix

The world can never have too many capable mountain-climbing SUVs, and therefore we welcome Mercedes-Benz’s addition of another trim-level to its G Wagen line-up in the form of the G 400 d.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/mercedes-benz-nz-adds-another-g-wagen-to-the-mix

---

Peugeot rebrands ahead of EVs landing in New Zealand

Peugeot has revealed its new branding ahead of the local arrival of the hybrid 3008 SUV and all-electric versions of the 2008 and the new 208 hatchback which will arrive in New Zealand later this year.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124491746/peugeot-rebrands-ahead-of-evs-landing-in-new-zealand

---

HOT TOPIC

Million-dollar showrooms in malls are the new battleground for China EVs

China’s electric-car makers are paying top-dollar rents to open showrooms in luxury malls as they seek an edge in the hypercompetitive market.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300248846/milliondollar-showrooms-in-malls-are-the-new-battleground-for-china-evs

China’s malls host EV showrooms

EV manufacturers in China are opening showrooms in luxury malls to gain a market edge.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/chinas-malls-host-ev-showrooms/

---

HOT TOPIC

Spicy SUV: Hyundai teases Kona N performance wagon

Hyundai has dropped its first official teaser images of its upcoming Kona N performance crossover without any camouflage.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/spicy-suv-hyundai-teases-kona-n-performance-wagon

Hyundai teases hot Kona SUV

Hyundai has released teaser images of the Kona N, the first SUV in the brand’s high-performance N range.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/hyundai-teases-hot-kona-suv

---

IN OTHER NEWS

Hyundai awarded funding for demo hydrogen trucks

Hyundai New Zealand has received $500,000 from round nine of the Government’s Low Emission Vehicles Contestable Fund (LEVCF) administered by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/hyundai-awarded-funding-for-demo-hydrogen-trucks

---

Mercedes adds second G-Wagen to NZ range

It’s boxy, pricey, and a symbol of chic that is more likely to be seen parked outside a Hugo Boss boutique than tackling the rocky off-road terrain that its three lockable differentials equip it to do.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mercedes-adds-second-g-wagen-to-nz-range

---

Kia Seltos leads competitive small SUV market

At the end of February 2021 New Zealanders had purchased more than 6353 small SUVs, accounting for 24.1%, or in round figures nearly one-quarter of the new vehicle market.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/kia-seltos-leads-competitive-small-suv-market

---

Kia teases its upcoming all-new EV

Kia has teased the first electric vehicle, the EV6, which will be based on the Hyundai Group’s new all-electric E-GMP architecture.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124490089/kia-teases-its-upcoming-allnew-ev

---

Easypark group expanding through park now acquisition

Easy Park Groups proposed acquisition of Park Now from the BMW Group and Daimler Mobility AG will help the 20-year-old Swedish company to expand its global footprint of digital parking services, including Australia and New Zealand.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/easypark-group-expanding-through-park-now-acquisition

---

Autonomous truck startup plus partners with NVIDIA

Self-driving truck startup Plus is partnering with multinational technology company Nvidia on autonomous systems.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/autonomous-truck-startup-plus-partners-with-nvidia/

---

Hydrogen bus launches march

New Zealand’s first hydrogen bus is set to be officially launched at Ports of Auckland on March 30.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/hydrogen-bus-launches-march/

---

‘Electric first’ campus for Mercedes-Benz

Development of electric and electrified drive systems is planned at the Mercedes-Benz Drive Systems Campus at Stuttgart-Untertürkheim in Germany.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/electric-first-campus-for-mercedes-benz/

---

Turners tips profits to top $35m

Company reports strong demand for used cars as all business units perform ahead of expectations.

https://autofile.co.nz/turners-tips-profits-to-top-35m-

---

Lenders urged to act or risk fines

Organisations advised to check their obligations around certification ahead of regulatory deadline.

https://autofile.co.nz/lenders-urged-to-act-or-risk-fines-

---

Job numbers in decline

Auckland and tourist areas drag down national figures, while Hawke’s Bay is soaring.

https://autofile.co.nz/job-numbers-in-decline-

---

Ebbett in $30m car-share deal

Mevo eyes Hamilton and Auckland markets after announcing takeover of Loop.

https://autofile.co.nz/ebbett-in-30m-car-share-deal-

---

Kia unleashes hybrids on NZ

Two new SUV models aim to make range more environmentally friendly.

https://autofile.co.nz/kia-unleashes-hybrids-on-nz-

---

Tesla stock prices drop by US$277billion, pundits divided

After an incredible 2020 Tesla stock prices are on the slide, a fifth straight session of decline was reported at the end of play on Monday in the US;

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/tesla-stock-prices-drop-by-us-277billion-pundits-divided

---

Audi teases new ‘baby e-Tron’ Q4, reveals high-tech cabin

Few European marques have thrown themselves so hard into the world of electric cars as Audi has.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/audi-teases-new-baby-e-tron-q4-reveals-high-tech-cabin

---

Kiwi car share firm strikes $30m deal ahead of Auckland expansion

Wellington-based car-share company Mevo and the Ebbett Group automotive group have inked a $30million deal that will help the former with its expansion plans.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/kiwi-car-share-firm-strikes-30m-deal-ahead-of-auckland-expansion

---

How Audi’s new augmented reality tech could change navigation forever

Getting lost or making a wrong turn in the cut and thrust of peak hour could soon be a thing of the past. Audi has developed new augmented reality technology that promises to make vehicle navigation that little bit easier.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/how-audi-s-new-augmented-reality-tech-could-change-navigation-forever/

---

Report: BMW’s highly-anticipated M3 wagon to be auto only

While some of BMW’s coolest cars have been station wagons, the German brand is yet to offer the high-performance M3 in wagon form, but that’s something that’s set to change next year.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/report-bmw-s-highly-anticipated-m3-wagon-to-be-auto-only/

---

Aston Martin to pair up with Mercedes-Benz and build electric supercars

James Bond’s car of choice is going through a monumental change. Aston Martin’s chairman, Lawrence Stroll, told the Financial Times in the UK the supercar maker is going green.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/aston-martin-to-pair-up-with-mercedes-benz-and-build-electric-supercars/

---

Countdown Johnsonville Tesla superchargers near completion

Six Tesla superchargers installed at Countdown Johnsonville are expected to be ready in weeks.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/countdown-johnsonville-tesla-superchargers-near-completion/

---

---

HOT TOPIC

IWD special: Women’s World Car of the Year announced

The Land Rover Defender has been chosen as the Women’s World Car of the Year (WWCOTY). It was announced to coincide with International Women’s Day (IWD) in the Northern Hemisphere (March 8).

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/iwd-special-women-s-world-car-of-the-year-announced/

Women choose defender as world’s best car 2021

The journalists of the Women’s World Car of the Year have chosen the Land Rover Defender as the World’s Best Car 2021.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/women-choose-defender-as-worlds-best-car-2021

Land Rover defender crowned world women’s car of the year

International Women’s Day saw World Women’s Car of the Year organisers drop their full list of class winners and finalists, with an ultimate victor crowned overnight.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/land-rover-defender-crowned-world-women-s-car-of-the-year

---

HOT TOPIC

VW’s EV aims

Volkswagen plans to pick up the pace on EV sales, especially in Europe where it wants to have 70% share of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by 2030 – double its previous aim of 35%.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/vws-ev-aims/

Volkswagen confirms plug-in hybrid Golf, Tiguan and T-Roc coming

Volkswagen has revealed it is developing plug-in hybrid versions of the vanilla Golf, Tiguan and T-Roc as part of its new ‘Accelerate’ product strategy.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124468489/volkswagen-confirms-plugin-hybrid-golf-tiguan-and-troc-coming

VW will be 70 per cent BEV by 2030 – but ‘we still need combustion engines for a while’

Volkswagen intends Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) to make up 70 per cent of its new-vehicle sales in Europe by 2030. But unlike Jaguar and Volvo, it isn’t abandoning development of the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) just yet.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/vw-will-be-70-per-cent-bev-by-2030-but-we-still-need-combustion-engines-for-a-while/

---

HOT TOPIC

Porsche and Singer in a feud over gravel-bashing acs

One of the Summer’s biggest releases was Singer Vehicle Design’s incredible off-road All-terrain Competition Study (or ACS) — a heavily reworked, re-engineered, privately commissioned Porsche 911, as per Singer’s past projects.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/porsche-and-singer-in-a-feud-over-gravel-bashing-acs

Porsche calls out Singer over multi-million-dollar off-roader

Despite the fact that Singer has been restoring Porsche 911s for a number of years now, it seems that the German brand isn’t happy with its name being plastered over the tuner’s latest creation.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/porsche-calls-out-singer-over-multi-million-dollar-off-roader/

---

BEST OF THE REST

Is the traditional ‘car dealership experience’ obsolete?

Being plunged into the largest global pandemic in history has taught the world plenty of things, ranging from the importance of teamwork and resourcefulness, to the importance of science, to the importance of general hygiene.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/is-the-traditional-car-dealership-experience-obsolete

---

IN OTHER NEWS

Kia teases EV6

Kia has shown the first official images of the EV6 – its first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) built on the company’s new EV platform (electric-global modular platform or E-GMP).

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/kia-teases-ev6

---

New EVs and PHEVs outpace used

New light pure electrics and new light plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) surged ahead of their secondhand counterparts in February registrations.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/new-evs-and-phevs-outpace-used/

---

SUVs drive marque higher

Mitsubishi smashes monthly sales record on its way to claiming top spot for new cars.

https://autofile.co.nz/suvs-drive-marque-higher-

---

Have your say on lending guidance

Due diligence rules an “important new obligation” for how top staff perform their duties.

https://autofile.co.nz/have-your-say-on-lending-guidance-

---

Dealership parts ways with marque

Changes also see new dealer principal for company’s flagship site in Dunedin.

https://autofile.co.nz/dealership-parts-ways-with-honda-

---

Honda details changes to dealers

“This is an opportunity to diversify and give customers freedom of choice on how they buy from us” – Nobuya Sonoda, Honda NZ

https://autofile.co.nz/honda-details-changes-to-dealers-

---

Kiwi car share firm strikes $30m deal ahead of Auckland expansion

Wellington-based car-share company Mevo and the Ebbett Group automotive group have inked a $30million deal that will help the former with its expansion plans.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/kiwi-car-share-firm-strikes-30m-deal-ahead-of-auckland-expansion

---

Kia embraces EV: Korean firm teases its first dedicated electric car

Kia has issued its first images of its all-new EV6 in a series of teaser shots outlining its silhouette and elements of its front and rear fascia.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/kia-embraces-ev-korean-firm-teases-its-first-dedicated-electric-car

---

Aston Martin planning new electric sports car and suv in 2025

Production of an all-new fully electric sports car and SUV pairing at Aston Martin is set to commence in four years time, according to a spate of overnight reports from Europe.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/aston-martin-planning-new-electric-sports-car-and-suv-in-2025

---

Volkswagen Australia unleashes hardcore Amarok

Volkswagen Australia has revealed its idea of a hardcore Amarok, but it’s not exactly a Ford Ranger Raptor fighter.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124449674/volkswagen-australia-unleashes-hardcore-amarok

---

Waikato WOF failures reach ‘alarming’ level as expert calls for change

New Zealand’s Motor Trade Association has flagged an alarming failure rate for vehicle warrant of fitness checks in the Waikato throughout February.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/waikato-wof-failures-reach-alarming-level-as-expert-calls-for-change/

---

---

HOT TOPIC

Kia confirms local Sorento hybrid and PHEV pricing

Kia New Zealand has confirmed local pricing for the plug-in hybrid and regular hybrid variants of the Sorento SUV. We knew the PHEV was coming but the hybrid is a bit of a surprise.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124467279/kia-confirms-local-sorento-hybrid-and-phev-pricing

Electrified models join Kia Sorento range

Electrified versions, including a plug-in PHEV with an all-electric range of 57km, have joined Kia’s seven-seater Sorento SUV range in New Zealand.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/electrified-models-join-kia-sorento-range

Prices, specification announced for Kia New Zealand’s electrified Sorento

Kia New Zealand’s big seven-seat SUV has gone green in a big way with the addition of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) models.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/prices-specification-announced-for-kia-new-zealand-s-electrified-sorento/

Electrified Kia Sorentos land in New Zealand, pricing confirmed

In the same month that its petrol-powered cousin was crowned NZ Autocar $60,000–$100,000 2020 Car of the Year, Kia has confirmed that the plug-in hybrid and hybrid versions of its flash new Sorento have landed in the country.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/electrified-kia-sorentos-land-in-new-zealand-pricing-confirmed

---

HOT TOPIC

GMSV celebrates diversity on International Women’s Day

General Motors Speciality Vehicles (GMSV) says female representation makes up 45% of the wider team.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/gmsv-celebrates-diversity-on-international-womens-day

VIDEO: Zooming with DRIVEN: International Women’s Day edition

Welcome to a special International Women’s Day edition of Zooming with DRIVEN.

Out go our usual panel and in come three women with proper motor-industry credentials.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/zooming-with-driven-international-women-s-day-edition/

IWD special: Women’s World Car of the Year

The Women’s World Car of the Year (WWCOTY) will be announced later today, to coincide with International Women’s Day (IWD) in the Northern Hemisphere.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/iwd-special-women-s-world-car-of-the-year/

IWD special: Maserati flies high with female heritage

As part of a series of stories marking International Women’s Day (IWD), we’re taking a look at the link between high-flying females and Maserati. But to get started, we have to head for the water.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/iwd-special-maserati-flies-high-with-female-heritage/

---

BEST OF THE REST

Ebbett sells Loop car share to Mevo

The Ebbett Group has signed a $30 million vehicle supply agreement with Wellington-based car share operator Mevo.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mevo-announces-milestones

---

IN OTHER NEWS

Honda New Zealand takes over Dunedin dealership

Honda New Zealand has taken over the ownership and management of the Honda dealership in Dunedin ending a 29-year relationship with the Southern Motor Group.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/honda-new-zealand-takes-over-dunedin-dealership

---

Mitsubishi enjoys second consecutive record sales month

For the second consecutive month Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand (MMNZ) has broken its 30-year new vehicle sales record, by 13%, registering 1620 units to secure second place overall with a market share of 13.4%.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mitsubishi-enjoys-second-consecutive-record-sales-month

---

Invisible urban charging EV equity campaign gets $762,051 so far

New Zealand-based clean tech company Invisible Urban Charging has surpassed its minimum $500,000 fundraising target to help expand its US EV charging infrastructure venture.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/invisible-urban-charging-ev-equity-campaign-gets-762051-so-far/

---

Beam launches in Wellington

Micromobility operator Beam has launched in New Zealand’s capital, starting with a fleet of 150 e-scooters and increasing that to 400 during coming weeks.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/beam-launches-in-wellington/

---

Retailers welcome back customers

Financial support available for businesses after the recent yo-yoing between alert levels.

https://autofile.co.nz/retailers-welcome-back-customers-

---

Dealers get winning feeling

Securing insurance sales leads to extra success as part of company’s $54,000 prize package. PLUS – gallery

https://autofile.co.nz/dealers-get-winning-feeling-

---

Cars temper decline for imports

Crude oil volumes bounce back while freight costs steadily climb.

https://autofile.co.nz/car-imports-stabilise-international-trade-

---

Time to swot up on EVs

VIA recommends courses to help companies upskill their staff as our fleet starts to change.

https://autofile.co.nz/time-to-swot-up-on-evs-

---

Volkswagen doubles down on electric cars, announces slick sedan

As preparations for widespread vehicle electrification roll-out in Europe and the UK continue, Volkswagen has announced plans to invest even more in the emerging technologies

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/volkswagen-doubles-down-on-electric-cars-announces-slick-sedan

---

The ultimate camper? enormous two-storey maxus emerges in China

For some people, the camping experience is meant to be about becoming one with nature — living the simple life, starting fires with twigs, trading the Starbucks for some awful instant powder-based replacement.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/the-ultimate-camper-enormous-two-storey-maxus-emerges-in-china

---

Ford axes four-cylinder Mustang in Europe, but what about NZ?

Ford’s four-cylinder EcoBoost Mustang has been the topic of much squabbling inside Ford enthusiast circles; dedicated fans often retching over its only-milk-comes-in-two-litres engine (which is a 2.3-litre of course).

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/ford-axes-four-cylinder-mustang-in-europe-but-what-about-nz

---

Elon Musk trolls GM, Chrysler on Twitter. Ford CEO responds with one word

Just one word. That’s all Ford CEO Jim Farley used to respond to Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Friday.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124464735/elon-musk-trolls-gm-chrysler-on-twitter-ford-ceo-responds-with-one-word

---

Ford begins early production of not-yet-announced small pickup truck

A new pickup truck from Ford Motor Co. quietly began rolling off assembly lines at the Dearborn automaker’s Hermosillo plant in Mexico last month, according to production data reported to shareholders this week.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124465242/ford-begins-early-production-of-notyetannounced-small-pickup-truck

---

Five Things: cars with downsized engines

As fuel consumption and emissions have become more and more important, carmakers are turning to turbocharging, dropping cylinders and electrification to keep their vehicles on the right side of the environment while still improving performance.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124395619/five-things-cars-with-downsized-engines

---

---

HOT TOPIC

Meet Porsche’s all-electric gravel warrior – the Taycan Cross Turismo

Porsche has finally taken all the pre-production camouflage off its all-electric wagon, the Taycan Cross Turismo.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124444089/meet-porsches-allelectric-gravel-warrior–the-taycan-cross-turismo

Electric Taycan Cross Turismo due later this year

Porsche’s Taycan Cross Turismo, revealed to the public with a virtual world premiere, is expected to arrive in New Zealand during the fourth quarter of this year with prices starting at $194,900.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/electric-taycan-cross-turismo-due-later-this-year

Revealed: Porsche turns Taycan super-sports EV into an SUV

As promised, Porsche has taken its Taycan Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and turned it into an SUV: the Cross Turismo.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/revealed-porsche-turns-taycan-super-sports-ev-into-an-suv/

---

HOT TOPIC

Hyundai Ioniq 5 interest shows kiwis ready for EV era

Public interest has surged in New Zealand following the recent global unveiling of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 with pre-orders already reaching double digits.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/hyundai-ioniq-5-interest-shows-kiwis-ready-for-ev-era

Hyundai’s radical Ioniq 5 EV confirmed for New Zealand

Hyundai’s futuristic and much talked about new electric car, the Ioniq 5, has been confirmed for New Zealand showrooms.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hyundai-s-radical-ioniq-5-ev-confirmed-for-new-zealand

---

HOT TOPIC

High Waikato WOF failure rate concerns MTA

Warrant of Fitness failures in the Waikato have reached an alarming level according to the Motor Trade Association of New Zealand (MTA).

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/high-waikato-wof-failure-rate-concerns-mta

Half of region’s vehicles fail WOF

MTA raises road safety fears as Waikato notches unwanted record.

https://autofile.co.nz/half-of-regions-vehicles-fail-wof-

---

BEST OF THE REST

Kiwi-based Rodin cars expands operations, confirms UK base

New Zealand-based car design, building and testing firm Rodin Cars has unveiled its new-look facilities on the other side of the world, based at Donington Park in the UK.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/kiwi-based-rodin-cars-expands-operations-confirms-uk-base

---

PODCAST

Toyota Hilux back on top! Zooming with DRIVEN, EP 34 news

Zooming with DRIVEN news is all about utes this week. The Kiwi new-vehicle industry had a boom month in February and Toyota was a particularly big winner.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/watch-toyota-hilux-back-on-top-zooming-with-driven-ep-34-news/

---

IN OTHER NEWS

New look Peugeot cars and dealership coming soon

New Zealand is amongst one of the first markets to implement Peugeot’s new global brand identity on its website and a new Auckland showroom is also under development.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/new-look-peugeot-cars-and-dealership-coming-soon

---

First US city to ban new gas stations?

California’s Petaluma City Council has moved to ban new gas stations, and existing stations won’t be allowed to add new gas pumps although they can add electric chargers.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/first-us-city-to-ban-new-gas-stations

---

Profits up for Northport owner

Strong results from wider group help bolster finances as earnings slip at Northland port.

https://autofile.co.nz/profits-up-for-northport-owner-

---

Mercedes-benz teases next electric car, reveals plump sedan

Mercedes-Benz is one step closer to revealing its first fully electric sedan, the production EQS, with the release of a side-on teaser shot showing the model’s distinctive silhouette.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/mercedes-benz-teases-next-electric-car-reveals-plump-sedan

---

Volkswagen might make its own Ford Ranger Raptor rival

The saying goes that every notable new electric car that comes out is inevitably going to be reported as a ‘Tesla killer’, and every second ute manufacturer is developing ‘a Ford Ranger Raptor rival’.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/volkswagen-might-make-its-own-ford-ranger-raptor-rival

---

What’s a Mclaren F1 worth these days?

Well evidently, quite a lot. Prices of Holdens and Hondas might fluctuate north and south for various reasons, but something like a McLaren F1 is a different story.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/what-s-a-mclaren-f1-worth-these-days

---

The mouse that roared – Arnold Diffllock

Wake up New Zealand! If the ‘Independent’ Climate Change Commission gets its way (and it will as long as the current Government is in power) we are in for massive and destructive change in the way we go about our daily lives, particularly with regard to transport.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/stick-it-to-the-man-arnold-diffllock-the-mouse-that-roared-march-2021

---

Hyundai announces first hydrogen fleet in Australia

Hyundai has beaten Toyota to the punch by confirming it will power the first hydrogen-only fleet in Australia.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124445587/hyundai-announces-first-hydrogen-fleet-in-australia

---

Tesla Model S the most searched for luxury car – even though it isn’t one

A new study from the UK has looked at the most desirable luxury cars based on Internet searches and found that the Tesla Model S topped the charts in more countries than any other car.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124430654/tesla-model-s-the-most-searched-for-luxury-car–even-though-it-isnt-one

---

Quick Charge 06/03: this week in EV news

olvo delivered a one-two electric punch this week with the back-to-back announcements of not only a new EV in its line up, but also that the company will be ditching ICEs entirely by 2030.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124445205/quick-charge-0603-this-week-in-ev-news

---

The new Volvo charged with the entire future of the company

Volvo has revealed its first-ever model to be launched exclusively as a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): the C40 Recharge.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/the-new-volvo-charged-with-the-entire-future-of-the-company/

---

---