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So far Dan Angland has created 1438 blog entries.

12th April 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Dealers encouraged to discuss new EV charging standards with buyers

The imported used car industry body is encouraging its dealer members to discuss the latest publically available standards (PAS) for residential electric vehicle chargers developed by Standards NZ with buyers of second-hand vehicles.

// New standard for charging EVs at home

VIA provides input for consumer guidance on how to recharge cars safely and cost-effectively.

HOT TOPIC

// Gas emissions from cars dropped in NZ last year

New Zealand’s thirst for electrified cars continues to slowly gain momentum; spurred on by slowly decreasing pricing, improvements to range, and the like.

// Transport emissions plunge

Decrease in amount of pollution from vehicles in 2020 comes despite a late surge in driving activity.

HOT TOPIC

// Highly-anticipated 2022 Ford Ranger spotted testing in Australia

When it comes to testing a pre-production vehicle on public roads, drivers aren’t only responsible for gathering important data, but also have to make sure prototypes fly beneath the radar.

// All-new ford ranger spotted testing at … KFC?

We all know that the average tradie doesn’t tend to have the best diet…

BEST OF THE REST

// Luxury car dealer raises $200k for Starship foundation

Auckland-based luxury and supercar dealer Giltrap Group has raised more than $200,000 for the Starship Foundation by hosting the inaugural Starship Supercars show at its 119GNR building.

// The event EV industry conference kicks off

Electrifying conservations are set to continue at the EVs and Beyond Conference on Waiheke Island on April 12 and 13.

IN OTHER NEWS

// BMW group doubles global EV sales in Q1

The BMW Group doubled its global sales of electrified vehicles in the first quarter of 2021 in comparison to the same period last year,

// ERoad signs Ventia as Australian enterprise customer

EROAD has signed its largest Australian enterprise customer with essential service provider Ventia.

// China driving demand for Adas says jv

The China division of Hitachi Astemo will showcase its advanced mobility solutions at Auto Shanghai 2021 from April 19 to 28.

// Long-serving duo leave dealership

Friends with a shared interest in cars since childhood step into retirement.

// Tougher penalties for cartel conduct

New laws introduce possible jail time for those found guilty of “serious and harmful” offending.

// VW loses appeal over Aussie $125m ‘Dieselgate’ fine

A few weeks after a comprehensive investigation resulted in the naming of its former CEO as a prime ‘Dieselgate’ suspect,

// SUVs compared to cigarettes in new emissions report

It’s no secret that the world’s motoring landscape has probably been changed forever by the enormous increase in demand and uptake of SUVs around the world;

// Five Things: significant EVs over the course of history

We already know electric vehicles are the future, despite the lack of V8 thunder. But while it might feel like they are relatively recent things, they’ve actually been around for more than a hundred years.

// Cyberster: MG reveals stunning electric roadster concept

Due to international Covid-19 travel restrictions, car shows around the world have been put on the back-burner recently,

 

12th April 20212021-04-12T08:16:08+12:00

9th April 2021 + the Weekend

HOT TOPIC

// Mazda adds new grade variant to CX-5 range

Mazda New Zealand is introducing a new grade variant called the SP25T to the CX-5 SUV range. Powered the Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine the new SP25T variant will sit between the Limited and Takami grades.

// Mazda NZ announces CX-5 update plus new ‘blackout’ model

While much of the attention has been on its upcoming MX-30 and the all-new BT-50 pick-up, …

HOT TOPIC

// Dealership targets new territory

Change of ownership for a 15-year-old Coromandel business boosts the number of marques on offer to consumers.

// Farmer Autovillage opening Coromandel dealership

From April 1 Mt Maunganui-based Farmer Autovillage took ownership of SubLab Whitianga …

  • https://autotalk.co.nz/news/farmer-autovillage-opening-coromandel-dealership

HOT TOPIC

// Koenigsegg & Ferrari SP2 confirmed for kiwi supercar extravaganza

This Sunday’s Starship Supercar Show in Auckland at Giltrap Group’s 119 Great North Road premises in Grey Lynn has attracted some of the finest pieces of four-wheeled machinery in the country,

// Come and meet the 400km/h club at New Zealand’s biggest supercar show

Three cars boasting top speeds in excess of 400km/h will headline the Giltrap Group Starship Supercar Show tomorrow.

  • https://www.driven.co.nz/news/come-and-meet-the-400km-h-club-at-new-zealand-s-biggest-supercar-show/

BEST OF THE REST

// New Ssangyong ute revealed in leaked images

A replacement for the SsangYong Rhino is imminent, underlined by the emergence of a series of leaked images of the revised model online.

IN OTHER NEWS

// E-air taxis use new advances

Electrical vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) are moving from science fiction to reality, enabled by rapid advancements in electric motor, battery, and computing technology.

// “Empires may fall”: report underlines dire electric car situation

The forthcoming bans on new petrol cars in countries around the world are set to force car-makers to rethink how they make cars and make profits — if they haven’t already done this already.

// Climate Commission agrees with trade on CCS timing

We spoke to the Climate Change Commission’s chief scientist Grant Blackwell about the government’s announcement of its Clean Car Standard,

// Rolls-Royce reports record first quarter sales

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars says it has delivered the highest-yet first quarter sales results in the marque’s 116-year history.

// Toyoda voted 2021 world car person of the year

Ninety-three journalists on the World Car Awards jury panel have voted Toyota Motor Corporation president and chief executive officer Akio Toyota, as the 2021 World Car Person of the Year.

// 5G tech paves the way for AVs

From platoon travel to the elimination of traffic jams, Select Car Leasing has revealed an unusual list of eight ways 5G technology will transform our roads.

// Top lineup for EV conference April 12 & 13

A two-day conference on EVs’ critical role in helping solve the Government’s ‘climate emergency’ features key people in the EV industry.

// EVs on track in NZ

EV policies and incentives may be known when the New Zealand Government issues its May budget, but the country appears to be on track, Drive Electric chair Mark Gilbert says.

// ICE age ending

Norway’s internal combustion engine (ICE) car sales are crashing and EV media like Electrek predict the rest of the world will soon follow.

// Farmer Autovillage charges ahead

Farmer Autovillage has installed one of the first 175kW DC fast chargers in the Bay of Plenty.

// Call to get in early for WOFs

Waka Kotahi says vehicle owners may be able to dodge the queues if they act ahead of an expected spike in inspections.

// Tesla slams German lawmakers over Gigafactory build

Tesla has found itself in a squabble with legislators in Germany over the brand’s new Gigafactory being built in Berlin — the brand’s first factory in Europe.

// MG unveils jaw-dropping cyberster electric sports car

As Covid-19 begins to subside (ish), the car industry has begun to slowly warm to the idea of car shows again. And one of the first to return is the Shanghai Auto Show.

// Lowest to highest: every new electric car you can buy in NZ in 2021

While uptake the of electric vehicles is continuing to gather pace in New Zealand, the selection available in the new car sector is still relatively small and mainly high-end.

// Everything electric coming in 2021

The world of EVs is growing every day, and it can feel quite overwhelming when looking at what’s on the horizon.

// Quick Charge 10/04: this week in EV news

As from tomorrow Stuff Motoring will be publishing a guide to all things electric in the car world with our first-ever Go Electric supplement in newspapers and online.

// Shift to electric vehicles becomes life-or-death risk for automakers

The shift to electric vehicles won’t happen like the flip of a light switch.

// Polestar will build the first-ever carbon-neutral car by 2030

Polestar has detailed its latest project, named 0, with a simple goal of becoming the world’s first carbon-neutral car.

// Watch: Is this the year that Hilux takes back the NZ new-vehicle sales crown?

This week on Zooming with DRIVEN news we’re wowed by a record sales month for the Kiwi industry – including the continued dominance of the Toyota Hilux over arch-rival Ranger.

// Charge account: Audi e-tron GT, full New Zealand pricing and specification

Audi has been one of the pioneers in bringing Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) power to the premium segment, with the likes of the e-tron SUV.

// The Good Oil: Audi RS, Porsche and ‘electric’ performance

The forthcoming RS e-tron GT stirs up the Audi Sport brand for a number of reasons.

// March 2021 New Vehicle Registrations Strongest on Record.

Motor Industry Association Chief Executive David Crawford says that despite March 2021 being the strongest March on record for sales of new vehicles,

 

9th April 2021 + the Weekend2021-04-11T08:27:17+12:00

8th April 2021 + Special Report

SPECIAL REPORT

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

On this page you’ll find current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

HOT TOPIC

// Polestar aims for ‘climate neutral’ car by 2030

Polestar has announced its “moonshot goal to create the first truly climate neutral car by 2030”.

// Polestar pledges to build the world’s first “climate-neutral” car by 2030

It’s a strange time in the automotive industry right now. …

HOT TOPIC

// Chevrolet announces fully electric Silverado

Overnight, the boss of General Motors announced that Chevrolet would dip its toes into the battery powered world with an all-electric Silverado.

// Chevrolet Silverado electric ute planned

Chevrolet will build a Silverado electric ute (pickup truck) …

HOT TOPIC

// Hyundai Kona N confirmed for NZ as new model debuts

It seems like just yesterday that Hyundai’s then-new Kona SUV first landed on Kiwi shores.

// Hyundai’s updated Kona is here now

Hyundai’s facelifted Kona is here now, sporting new looks …

BEST OF THE REST

// MG teases a pure-electric ‘heritage’ sports car… again

After 14 years of ownership by Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), the MG brand has evolved to focus heavily on SUVs.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Ateco bolsters stable of marques

Expansion has company on track for $1b of turnover in the next financial year.

// EV registrations rocket in march

EV registrations have reached 26,123 in March 2021 – up a massive 905 on February figures.

// Many routes to ‘1000-mile’ EVs

It is easy to make “1000-mile” (1609km) battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and the effect on market uptake will be profound.

// VW hits sales high in NZ

Marque praises performance of two recent launches for helping set new benchmark.

// Container congestion hits port

Bay of Plenty site seeks extra trains to clear build-up of goods that need to be in Auckland.

// Volkswagen NZ sold more new cars last month than ever before

Local distributors have started coming out of the woodwork to confirm the scale of last month’s credible month of new-vehicle registrations;

// It’s not just new cars: used car sales rise in NZ

It’s been an explosive start to the year for local new-car distributors, with record sales of new cars in both February and March.

// The best sounding cars of all time

As we move into the age of electricity, one of the biggest losers in the car scene is the sound.

// KTM unleashes utterly mad 1290 Super Duke RR

KTM has evidently decided its barn-storming 1290 Super Duke R isn’t quite as tough as it could be. Enter the limited-run, double-R edition.

// Japan’s Mitsui & Co invests into NZ hydrogen

New Zealand hydrogen developer Hiringa Energy has signed an investment deal with Japanese trading and investment multinational Mitsui & Co.

// AA Car Care: Air conditioning 101

Despite summer drawing to a close, we’ve been experiencing hot, muggy days over the past few weeks. During these times, car air conditioning can be working overtime.

8th April 2021 + Special Report2021-04-08T09:09:17+12:00

7th April 2021

INTERESTING INTERNATIONAL

// Four Key Trends

A McKinsey & Company article about the irresistible momentum behind clean, electric, connected mobility.

HOT TOPIC

// Kia Sorento PHEV premium from $89,990

The Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) offers 57km electric range, all-wheel-drive, and more power for $89,990 plus on-road costs.

// Kia confirms kiwi pricing for Sorento plug-in hybrid

Kia’s all-new award winning Sorento three-row SUV …

HOT TOPIC

// Haval confirms new SUV for New Zealand, more on the way

Chinese car maker Haval has confirmed a new SUV nameplate for New Zealand; the Jolion.

// Haval announces fresh new Jolion SUV for NZ

Coming initially two grades, the Jolion features plenty of chrome …

HOT TOPIC

// Strongest March ever for new car sales as Hilux stays on top

March 2021 was the strongest third month of the year ever in terms of vehicle registrations, despite various ongoing Covid-19 restrictions.

// All-time record for new-vehicle sales in March, Hilux still rules ahead of Ranger

The Toyota Hilux has stayed ahead of arch rival Ford Ranger …

BEST OF THE REST

// EV RUV exemption extension likely?

The EV exemption from road user charges (RUC) is due to expire on December 31 this year, but transport minister Michael Wood says he’s asked for advice on extending it.

IN OTHER NEWS

// These are the most popular electric and electrified vehicles in NZ

Electric vehicles and hybrids are really picking up steam in New Zealand, with 424 pure electric vehicles, 150 plug-in hybrids and 855 hybrids sold this month.

// Volkswagen celebrates best March sales month yet

March 2021 saw Volkswagen passenger vehicles achieve the best monthly sales tally yet recorded by the brand in New Zealand – selling 528 new vehicles nationwide.

// Brake hosts an evening with Murph

Fleet operators, suppliers and health and safety professionals are invited to join road safety charity Brake for an evening with motorsport legend Greg Murphy.

// Fleet Day 2021 tackles safety and tech

Fleet safety, electric and alternative fleets along with heavy transport challenges and solutions will be topics of discussion at Fleet Day 2021.

// Call to accelerate ICE ban

Drive Electric wants earlier deadline for petrol and diesel imports to keep NZ in line with other nations.

// NZ car sales continue to soar following best march on record

For the third consecutive month, the local car industry has recorded incredible sales data; this time in setting a new record for new-vehicle registrations for the month of March.

// Watch: new Volkswagen ad takes a shot at Subaru

Let’s just say it’s been a weird few weeks for Volkswagen. Days after it was confirmed that the brand would be going after its former CEO over ‘Dieselgate’, it embarked on one of the most botched and bizarre April Fools gags in motoring history

// Is this the new 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser?

Patent drawings purporting to show the next-generation Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series have emerged online, fueling further speculation about one of the Japanese marque’s most iconic nameplates.

// Iconic British car company has new Japanese owner

In this age of electrification transition, a lot of car enthusiasts are struggling to see how all the iconography that made the motoring world so attractive to them in the first place is going to translate into the new world.

// GM reveals Hummer EV SUV

General Motors resurrected the Hummer last year, as an all-conquering, 746kW electric truck designed to beat the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado at their own game.

// Volkswagen’s Golf 8 is strangely the same but also completely different

Reports of the death of the Volkswagen Golf have been greatly exaggerated.

// Emissions-free off-roader: Mercedes-Benz patent filing hints at electric G-Class

As we move into the electric age, automotive brands are hard at work building new electric vehicles, as well as finding ways to turn what they currently sell into an EV.

// Mazda New Zealand helping make trees count

While debate has been raging over the varying environmental impact of combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicle technologies, Mazda NZ has been doing something fundamental to improve the quality of bush reserves and waterways in this country: planting native trees.

// Report: Volkswagen EVs will be able to power homes and other vehicles by 2022

While electricity has been a thing for as long as most people remember, it seems that it’s only now that we’ve started treating it as a commodity rather than something that appears out of thin air.

 

7th April 20212021-04-07T09:25:11+12:00

6th April 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Vehicle arrivals up in March

Vehicle imports were up 28% month-on-month in March with a total of 29,444 arrivals for the month.

// Successful month for imports

Used import vehicle registrations in March showed the difference the start of lockdown made last year, with registrations up 28.5%.

// Record month for new vehicles

Motor Industry Association warns disruptions remain a threat to the sector despite healthy numbers.

// Mixed fortunes for imports

Used-car activity remains steady while new vehicles enjoyed a healthy boost at our borders in March.

// Covid month provides statistical outlier

New vehicle registrations were up a massive 86.7% on March last year, though as everyone knows that number is largely a COVID-created statistical outlier.

// Used-imported car sales surge

A full month of business in March brings welcome trade figures after the same month a year ago was blighted by Covid-19.

// Demand jumps for new cars

Sales figures nearly double from a year ago with a tight three-way tussle among the top marques.

HOT TOPIC

// Barling takes the helm at Maserati Australia and New Zealand

Following Glen Sealey’s move to the Renault brand within the Ateco Group, former national sales manager Grant Barling has been appointed as the new Maserati Australia and New Zealand general manager.

// Maserati’s new boss Down Under

Grant Barling takes on top job for luxury marque as former chief shifts to Renault.

// Maserati announces new GM for Australia and NZ

As Maserati prepares to tackle some of its most ambitious projects to date, it’s confirmed the appointment of a new general manager for its Australian and New Zealand arm.

HOT TOPIC

// 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV debuts

GMC’s electric super truck line-up expands with the addition of the 2024 Hummer EV SUV making its debut during the NCAA’s Final Four in a new commercial film narrated by LeBron James.

// The ultimate SUV? 619kw GMC Hummer wagon EV breaks cover

Overnight GMC Hummer did the inevitable, revealing an SUV variant to sit alongside its fully electric Hummer pick-up from late 2020.

// Watch: Hummer’s new SUV might be the wildest EV of its kind

The new GMC Hummer EV might just be the wildest SUV to hit the market in a long time.

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota reveals new GR 86 coupe with more power and sharper looks

Late last year, Subaru whipped the covers off the highly-anticipated second-generation BRZ, and while we thought that Toyota’s sister car wouldn’t be far behind, they’ve made us wait a while.

// Toyota unveils new GR 86 to global markets

Toyota has unveiled the GR 86 coupe which is the third model released under the Toyota Gazoo Racing brand following the GR Supra in 2019 and the GR Yaris in 2020.

// Revealed: New Toyota GR 86 has ‘ace up its sleeve’ over BRZ cousin

While the rest of us spent our weekend stuffing our gobs with Easter chocolate, Toyota went ahead and finally unveiled its next-generation 86 coupe over the weekend.

// Toyota reveals second-generation GR 86

Toyota has revealed the second generation of its small, rear-wheel drive sports car. This time, the 86 gets a new GR prefix, along with plenty of other upgrades.

HOT TOPIC

// Tesla first quarter sales more than double last year’s numbers

Tesla says it delivered nearly 185,000 electric vehicles in the first quarter despite a shortage of computer chips that has hit the global auto industry.

// Tesla doubles deliveries in Q1

Tesla says it has delivered nearly 185,000 EVs in the first quarter of this year, prompting some analysts to speculate that Tesla deliveries could exceed more than 850,000 vehicles in 2021.

HOT TOPIC

// Aotearoa could become a right hand-drive dumping ground for dirty cars, lobby group warns

Electric vehicle lobby group Drive Electric wants a ban on imports of internal combustion light vehicles, such as cars, vans and SUVs, by 2030.

// Electric car advocate want NZ to ban petrol cars by 2030

Ever since the New Zealand Government declared a state of climate change emergency late last year, various groups have engaged in a tug of war tussle over what the country is to do regarding its vehicle fleet.

BEST OF THE REST

// New Haval Jolion SUV bound for New Zealand

The first shipments of the all-new Haval Jolion SUV are about to arrive into New Zealand according to the local distributor.

BEST OF THE REST

// Clock is ticking on Honda Civic Type R orders

The end of an era will come later this year, as Honda’s European division prepares to close its Swindon production plant — simultaneously ending production of the current award-winning FK8-generation Civic Type R.

// WHO approves Landcruiser 78 Series vaccine transporter

A Toyota LandCruiser 78 series has become the world’s first refrigerated vehicle for vaccine delivery which has obtained the performance, quality, and safety (PQS) prequalification standard from the World Health Organisation.

// SG Fleet to acquire Leaseplan Australia and New Zealand

SG Fleet says it intends to acquire the Australian and New Zealand businesses of LeasePlan.

// FTN Motion investment round oversubscribed

Wellington’s FTN Motion has closed its investment round of $500,000 after pitching its unique electric motorbikes to key private investors and angel clubs throughout the country.

// Dealer register continues to shrink

Trader numbers decrease for the seventh consecutive month following a brief spike last year.

// Popularity of new commercials soars

Sector’s sales got back on track in March after the impact of lockdown a year ago, and used commercials only suffered a small dip.

// BMW inks $472m deal for more environmentally friendly lithium

Among the many questions around electric cars and their environmental impacts are concerns around the sourcing of lithium and cobalt.

// Ed Finn started a business after Holden pulled the pin in 2020, and no regrets

2020 started with a nasty shock for Ed Finn, Holden New Zealand’s corporate affairs manager, when staff were told they were going to be out of a job.

// Watch: Is there going to be another VW Golf? Zooming with DRIVEN

VW’s new Golf, Skoda’s new Octavia, and BMW’s new M3 is covered in last weeks’ news section on Zooming with DRIVEN.

 

6th April 20212021-04-06T10:24:48+12:00

5th April 2021 + Easter Weekend

// NZ Toyota Highlander pricing confirmed, Rav4 gets increase

Having been quiet about its upcoming Toyota Highlander replacement since October, Toyota New Zealand has announced the all-new Highlander’s pricing and line-up.

// EV torque – signalling the end of the ICE age

If you are still doubting that we are on the threshold of the EV evolution, it’s time to readjust your thinking.

// Quick Charge 03/04: this week in EV news

The biggest EV story of the week had little to do with actual electric cars and much to do with an April Fool’s joke that either backfired spectacularly or was smart marketing stunt that worked absolutely brilliantly.

// Five Things: carmakers we never thought would build an SUV

Once upon a time, SUVs were niche products for people wanting to combine decent levels of on- and off-road performance.

// CEO of Google’s self-driving car spinoff steps down from job

The executive who steered the transformation of Google’s self-driving car project into a separate company worth billions of dollars is stepping down after more than five years on the job.

// Genesis unveils spectacular X Concept

Genesis has revealed its latest concept car, the all-electric X Concept.

// Nissan reveals sort of pointless V8-powered Patrol Nismo

Nissan, maker of one of the world’s most popular electric vehicles, has just revealed this; a V8-powered, Nismo-tuned Patrol.

 

5th April 2021 + Easter Weekend2021-04-05T08:40:10+12:00

1st April 2021 + Special Report

SPECIAL REPORT

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

This Special Report shows every brand’s current National New Car deals.

Changed in the last 7 days:
Audi, Ford, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes, Mini, Skoda, Suzuki, Volkswagen.

HOT TOPIC

// Kiwi company comes up with tyre recycling scheme

As cars continue to evolve, how exactly to recycle them continues to be a topic of spirited discussion.

// Waste tyres to help make cement

Millions of tyres to be saved from landfill following factory’s multimillion-dollar upgrade.

HOT TOPIC

// Subaru confirms march as its best nz sales month in history

More manufacturers have started to showcase positive local sales results in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic’s Kiwi peak,

// Subaru boss thanks hard working dealer network

Subaru New Zealand says a perfect storm resulted in the dealer network achieving 461 new vehicle sales in March 2021, which was 20% more sales in one month than previously recorded.

// Subaru hails record sales

Marque’s managing director describes the recent levels of new-car trade as a “phenomenal boost” for the industry.

HOT TOPIC

// Hyundai’s first ute teased

Hyundai has released some new official teaser image for the Santa Cruz small ute ahead of a full reveal on April 15.

// Hyundai ute revealed: first Santa Cruz teaser images appear

The story of Hyundai producing its first ute is a long, long one. It started a long six years ago, when the Korean marque debuted a compact sporty concept ute called the ‘Santa Cruz’, with this followed by plenty of speculation.

HOT TOPIC

// Nissan’s V8-powered Patrol gets NISMO variant for Easter

Once a powerhouse in the global automotive market, Nissan has had a tough last decade, marred by sketchy dealings from its former CEO, so it’s not doing overly great these days.

// Nissan’s new Patrol Nismo v8 is a big, bygone era bruiser

There’s something so delightfully dumb about strapping a powerful V8 to a big, wallowing not-so-performance-orientated SUV platform, and watching what results.

BEST OF THE REST

// Kia adds 2wd hybrid Sorento price leader

Kia has added a front-wheel drive EX entry model to its hybrid-powered Sorento seven-seat SUV range.

IN OTHER NEWS

// EV supply unaffected by latest delays

EV dealerships are not expecting any issues from continuing COVID-19 restrictions overseas, especially with France in a three-week lockdown, or the Suez Canal ship blockage.

// Pillay joining Provident Insurance

Provident Insurance has announced the appointment of well-known automotive industry executive Dass Pillay as its new business development manager from May 2020.

// Mercedes teams with NZ fashion label

New Zealand-based fashion label Maggie Marilyn has become a brand partner of Mercedes-Benz New Zealand.

// Skoda expanding dealer network for further growth

In spite of supply and shipping issues Skoda New Zealand is expanding its dealer and service network locally as it prepares for further market growth from winning a Police supply contract

// BMW’s more versatile vehicle app

BMW has launched an all-new My BMW app which replaces the current BMW Connected app.

// Ed Finn takes over Kia’s PR

Livewire Auckland public relations man Ed Finn who handled Holden’s media and corporative relations in recent years has been appointed to do the same job for Kia New Zealand.

// Industry body calls for scrap action

The MTA wants to see the “worst” vehicles come off our roads for environmental and safety reasons.

// Honda NZ recall to replace fuel pumps

Marque acts after discovering hundreds of vehicles in New Zealand may be fitted with a defective part.

// Skoda Octavia lands in NZ

Skoda’s newest machine, the fourth-generation Octavia, has arrived in New Zealand but, thanks to the challenging global situation, its launch is hampered by constrained supply.

// Is VW really changing its name to Voltswagen?

A few days ago an incomplete version of an announcement was accidentally posted on Volkswagen of America’s website, saying that the company would change its name to ‘Voltswagen’ in the USA before it quickly disappeared

// Edmunds puts Tesla’s range to the test and it comes up short

US website Edmunds recently published the results of its real-world range testing for electric vehicles. Notably, every Tesla the team tested in 2020 came up short of matching the EPA’s range estimate.

// Mercedes- AMG confirms huge power for incoming C 63

Mercedes-AMG has detailed the forthcoming C 63’s powertrain, which is set to halve the cylinders and add electrification for a gargantuan amount of power.

// Lexus shows off electric future with stunning LF-Z concept

Lexus is embarking on a monumental change over the next five years. The luxury Japanese brand has committed to introducing 20 new vehicles by 2025 — 10 with some form of electric power.

// Kia’s sharp EV6 confirmed for New Zealand with over 500km of range

Once upon a time, Tesla had a monopoly on electric vehicles capable of going fast. As more brands enter the electric sphere, insanely fast cars have almost come to be expected from every brand.

// Watch: Is BMW’s new M3 the best yet? Zooming with DRIVEN

This week it’s just Dean and Andrew on the panel, and we start things off with some sad news. Just last week, DRIVEN’s former Editor Tony Verdon tragically passed away whilst swimming near his home in Whangarei heads.

FEEDBACK

// Hey there

I’ve been making changes to the layout and colours of the email recently, as you’ve probably noticed.

If there’s anything you like, dislike, or anything you’d like added (or removed), I’d love to hear about it.

Just reply to the email anytime with feedback or suggestions and I’ll do my absolute best to incorporate it.

Thanks, Dan.

 

1st April 2021 + Special Report2021-04-01T07:42:58+13:00

31st March 2021

HOT TOPIC

// VW America admits PR prank

Volkswagen Group of America has pulled off one of the most believable public relations stunts in automotive history, saying from May 1 electric-powered VWs sold in America would be re-branded as Voltswagens.

// Is VW really is changing its name to Voltswagen?

A few days ago an incomplete version of an announcement was accidentally posted on Volkswagen of America’s website, saying that the company would change its name to ‘Voltswagen’ in the USA before it quickly disappeared

// Shift to EVs sparks VW name change in US

From May 1 electric-powered VWs sold in America will be re-branded as Voltswagens.

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota CEO says kiwi electric car targets are too ambitious

Toyota New Zealand CEO Neeraj Lala has raised further concerns about the Climate Change Commission’s recommendations to local government

// Toyota NZ warns ICE ban by 2035 ‘unrealistic’

The Climate Change Commission’s proposed ban on petrol and diesel cars by 2035 ignores the reality that EVs will be in short supply for years to come, Toyota NZ chief executive Neeraj Lala says.

// Used-car imports face risk from climate action

Toyota CEO warns policy recommendations may increase size of our fleet and encourage the uptake of less-safe EVs.

HOT TOPIC

// Kia spills details on EV6

Marque’s first foray into battery-electric vehicles is due here before the end of the year.

// Video: Kia EV6 for NZ

The fully electric Kia EV6 will feature super-car performance, extra-long range, ultra-fast charging ability – and it’s coming to New Zealand probably later this year.

// Kia unveils electric EV6 GT ‘supercar’, confirms it for NZ

Earlier this month Kia showcased its first dedicated electric car; the all-new EV6.

HOT TOPIC

// Lexus shows BEV concept car

The Lexus LF-Z Electrified1 has been unveiled as a concept battery electric vehicle (BEV) symbolising the brand’s transformation set to be realised by 2025.

// Lexus LF-Z concept gives us a taste of the brand’s future

For the second time this month, the Toyota/Lexus juggernaut has unveiled a new concept. But while the previous unveiling showcased a playful diminutive SUV unlikely to see the road in this part of the world, last night’s unveiling was something altogether more interesting.

// Lexus reveals brand new electric SUV

Lexus revealed its latest concept overnight, taking the form of an all-electric SUV dubbed the LF-Z.

HOT TOPIC

// Genesis goes sleek with striking new concept

Ignore that Tiger Woods–sized blip in the radar, and it’s been a fairly productive period for emerging premium car maker Genesis.

// Genesis X concept debuts in LA

The Genesis X Concept, an EV-based GT (Gran Turismo), has been presented in a world-premiere video on a Los Angeles roof-top.

BEST OF THE REST

// The Humble One is the solar-powered SUV of your dreams

Humble Motors is a fresh-from-2020 start-up (risky year to start a business) that has just revealed its first product. The Humble One is five-seat electric crossover that, according to its maker, will eventually become the world’s first solar-powered SUV.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Isuzu Trucks NZ announce winning Grandmaster dealerships

Isuzu Trucks NZ has announced the winners of the annual Grandmaster awards, the accolade presented to the best performing dealerships in the nationwide network.

// Two electrics in three world car contenders

If the press release is to be believed, the air is crackling with excitement all over the world as the naming of the 2021 World Car of the Year approaches.

// UBCO accelerates EV adoption

Tauranga-based UBCO is gearing up for widespread adoption of its utility electric bikes across New Zealand farms, businesses and households, thanks to funding from government-backed Carbn Group.

// Rugged new Subaru Outback wilderness revealed

Just yesterday we profiled the new Toyota Yaris Cross Adventure — an example of how the compact crossover and SUV space is starting to lean more into the rugged, rough-and-tumble world of off-roading.

// Confirmed: Mercedes-AMG says the C 63 will lose its V8

One of the worst-kept secrets of recent times has been confirmed from the horse’s mouth; the next Mercedes-AMG C 63 will not be powered by a V8.

// GMSV confirms Kiwi pricing for right-hand drive Corvette

General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) has just confirmed the pricing for the right-hand drive C8 Corvette, expected to arrive early next year.

// BMW brings out the big guns for local M3 and M4 launch

BMW’s M3 sedan is a true icon. While it wasn’t the first model to come from the German performance brand, that title belongs to the M1 supercar, it’s since established itself as the most successful.

// Bread: Inside the charity using million-dollar supercars to help kids in need

Supercars are universally known as a symbol of wealth, so using these high-powered machines as a tool to raise money for the New Zealand children in need might not make sense initially.

// Chevrolet’s beefy Silverado LT Trail Boss off-roader confirmed for NZ

GMSV — which replaced old Holden tuner HSV — is getting ready to launch the new Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss later this year. The Trail Boss will bring some off-road pedigree to the Silverado range in New Zealand.

// NZ Police reveal very first Skoda Superb patrol vehicle

After decades of Holden’s Commodore patrolling New Zealand’s roads, the Australian icon has finally had to bow out or service, making way for its European replacement.

 

31st March 20212021-03-31T07:07:03+13:00

30th March 2021

HOT TOPIC

// NZ pricing revealed for Chevrolet’s highly-anticipated Corvette

Two years ago, Chevrolet’s mid-engined Corvette was the talk of the automotive world, as not only was it the first Corvette to switch up the FR layout, but it was also capable of incredible performance from its naturally aspirated V8.

// Confirmed: Chevrolet Corvette C8 to be priced from $154,990 in NZ

General Motors Specialty Vehicles has finally confirmed pricing for its highly anticipated Corvette C8, with entry-level variants priced from $154,990.

// GMSV confirms Kiwi pricing for right-hand drive Corvette

General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) has just confirmed the pricing for the right-hand drive C8 Corvette, expected to arrive early next year.

HOT TOPIC

// Bush-whacking chevy Silverado LT trail boss coming to NZ

It’s been a big day for General Motors Specialty Vehicles. Along with confirming pricing for its much anticipated Corvette C8, it has also announced a new model of Silverado for the New Zealand market.

// GMSV dealers taking Silverado LT trail boss orders for Q3 delivery

General Motors Speciality Vehicles (GMSV) says its dealer network is now taking orders for the Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss pick-up truck with deliveries scheduled for mid-year.

HOT TOPIC – APRIL FOOLS?

// Volkswagen is seemingly serious about changing its name to ‘Voltswagen’

It’s no secret that Volkswagen is serious about electric vehicles. The German marque is investing more than $50 billion in building six new battery plants across Europe, to power its range of iD cars.

// Volkswagen reportedly changing its name to… err… ‘Voltswagen’?

In maybe the weirdest story of the week thus far, an early press release that’s since been deleted reportedly shows that Volkswagen is looking to change its name in North America to Voltswagen (swapping the ‘k’ for a ‘t’) as it pivots to focus more on electrification.

HOT TOPIC

// BMW unleashes rockets at runway

On a day that promised rain after weeks of dry weather, BMW got lucky with sunny proceedings for the launch to customers and press of the sixth-generation M3 and M4.

// BMW group NZ launches new M3 sedan and M4 coupe

BMW Group NZ hosted VIP customers, dealers, and media at North Shore Aerodrome yesterday for the official reveal of the all-new high-performance M3 sedan and M4 coupe.

HOT TOPIC

// Renault’s teeny tiny updated Zoe EV bound for NZ

One of the electric car world’s forgotten entries, the Renault Zoe, recently inherited a handy mid-life refresh, arming it with more tech and improved range, among other changes.

// New Renault Zoe tours dealerships

The new electric Renault Zoe is due in New Zealand from mid-2021 with pre-orders being taken now for a $500 deposit on the $65,990 (recommended retail price) EV.

BEST OF THE REST

// Electric mini becomes Formula E safety car

The Mini Electric Pacesetter inspired by John Cooper Works is the new safety car for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship race series

// Old tyres fuel cement works kiln

Using old tyres to fuel the kiln at Golden Bay’s Whangarei cement works will consume 42% of the estimated three million waste tyres in Auckland each year.

IN OTHER NEWS

//  Struts for Porsches recalled

Pin failure means suspension struts will break away and may result in control of front wheels being lost.

// Volkswagen seeks ‘dieselgate’ damages from former CEO

After a six-year long investigation Volkswagen AG is seeking a claim for legal damages against its former chief executive officer Martin Winterkorn and former Audi chief executive Rupert Stadtler

// Electrification and SUVs kill off the Ford Mondeo

Ford has announced it will phase out the Mondeo large car family at the end of March 2022 as European consumers increasingly favour crossover and SUV models, preferably those with a plug.

// Ports of Auckland must prioritise health and safety, report says

An independent review has found “systemic problems” in relation to critical health and safety risk management and organisational culture at Ports of Auckland.

// Triumph reveals electric motorbike design

Triumph Motorcycles is working with United Kingdom industry experts, academic leaders and Innovate UK, to develop specialist electric motorcycle technology and integrated solutions.

// Ellegard says goodbye to Kia

A long serving public relations contractor to Kia New Zealand says he is ending his 21-year relationship with the brand on March 31, 2021 with a fond annyeong (goodbye).

// EV trucks for the warehouse home deliveries

The Warehouse Group has four custom EV trucks to service its home delivery network in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga and Christchurch from this week.

// FCEV bus unveiled

New Zealand’s first hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) bus has been unveiled by Auckland Transport (AT) as the organisation transitions to an emissions-free fleet.

// Fuso Ecanter launched to zero emission trial participants

Fuso eCanter’s first New Zealand adopters recently joined representatives from government and infrastructure for a special launch event and information session at Fuso NZ in Auckland.

// Steering fleets to an all-electric future

A cloud-based digital solution for real-time EV fleet management will be developed by ABB and Amazon Web Services (AWS).

// Auto imports from China soar

Cars and parts coming into our country are climbing in value but overall imports are on the slide.

//  Health and safety shake-up for port

Company commits to making changes after report identifies a number of areas in need of improvement.

//  Police unveil new patrol car

Two versions of the Skoda Superb will soon be on the beat as they gradually replace Holden vehicles. PLUS – video

//  Toyota Yaris cross gets adventurous with new model

Yesterday we touched on the advent of the ‘adventure ute’, underlined by the newly revealed Mazda BT-50, plus key segment players like the Ford Ranger Raptor.

// Buying Teslas with Bitcoin sort of defeats the purpose of Teslas

OPINION: Tesla has begun accepting Bitcoin as payment for vehicles in the U.S. This could be a clever marketing strategy, a way of bolstering the value of the company’s own crypto-bet, or perhaps just something to do.

// The pandemic is creating a ‘postwar boom’ for luxury carmakers

Famously reticent to disclose how many cars they sell or at what amount of profit, luxury automakers are finding it difficult lately to avoid crowing-just a little bit-about how well they did in 2020.

// How to make easy money: sell one car

It turns out, if you want to make a lot of money (or give a lot to charity), all you need to do is sell one car.

//  So European, Kiwi cops to drive Skoda after over 50 years of Holden, Ford loyalty

After more than 50 years of loyalty to Holden and Ford, police today unveiled their new patrol cars – the European Skoda.

 

30th March 20212021-03-30T08:52:34+13:00

29th March 2021

HOT TOPIC

Revealed: new Skoda Superb NZ police cars unveiled

Skoda New Zealand and the New Zealand Police have whipped the covers off the first of their new police fleet; the Skoda Superb ‘Prime One’ police car.

Skoda police car makes debut

Police Commissioner Andrew Coster has unveiled the first Skoda Superb patrol car finished in NZ police livery and fitted with operational equipment.

So European, Kiwi cops to drive Skoda after over 50 years of Holden, Ford loyalty

After more than 50 years of loyalty to Holden and Ford, police today unveiled their new patrol cars – the European Skoda.

BEST OF THE REST

Mazda reveals ‘BT-50 Thunder’, a gravel-bashing Raptor rival

Yet another name has waded into the off-road double-cab ute adventure segment, with Mazda unveiling its challenger — the BT-50 Thunder.

Mercedes’ next car comes with a 56-inch curved touchscreen

It turns out the crew from Pimp My Ride weren’t far from inexplicably predicting the future of motoring tech with their barrage of cruddy early noughties screens in each of their on-screen projects.

IN OTHER NEWS

Hummer’s very first electric truck sells for a hefty $3.5 million at auction

If you had asked anyone a few years ago about which GM brand would be one of the first to build a dedicated electric vehicle, it’s likely that Hummer wouldn’t be the first guess.

Firstgas announces 100% hydrogen grid by 2050

Firstgas Group has announced a plan for decarbonisation of its New Zealand gas pipeline network including a 100% hydrogen grid by 2050 to support heavy transport.

Chile to meet EV battery cobalt demand

Capstone Mining plans to advance its “Cobalt Project” at Santo Domingo in Chile to help meet an estimated need for 140,000 tonnes of cobalt for lithium-ion batteries by 2025.

Volkswagen chasing former CEO over ‘dieselgate’ damages

Such was the scale of Volkswagen Group’s ‘Dieselgate’ scandal that, six years after revelations began to come out, its impacts remain ongoing.

NZ Police could go electric with next-gen Skoda cop cars

The local constabulary might have only just revealed its new Skoda Superb police car, but both it and the Czech car maker’s local arm appear to already have an eye on a greener future.

Genesis teases possible production version of the Essentia

There’s also a weird (but very cool) eyeball thing that flips around to reveal the gear selector and a stylish door panel. Meanwhile, the description of the video confirms the vehicle is all-electric.

Car focused transport system contributing to psychological distress – study

A new study has shown New Zealand’s transport system could be contributing to increasing levels of psychological distress.

Triumph’s all-electric motorbike is taking shape

Triumph has revealed the latest design sketches for its current pet project, an all-electric two-wheeler developed in partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE)

 

29th March 20212021-03-29T07:17:59+13:00
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