dan.angland

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Light ICE Vehicle Imports To End By 2035?

The phasing out of light internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle importation within 14 years and ending energy generation from coal by 2035 are among actions proposed by the Climate Change Commission.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/light-ice-vehicle-imports-to-end-by-2035

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Dealer-Focussed Safety Webinar Confirmed

AutoTalk has partnered with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency for a professional development session no one in the trade should miss.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/dealer-focussed-safety-webinar-confirmed

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BMW M5 CS Accelerates Like A Supercar

Want a car that will hit 100km/h from rest in three seconds flat and will go on to hit an electronically limited top speed of 302km/h? From the middle of the year, you’ll be able to get one – price on request – from BMW dealers in New Zealand.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/bmw-m5-cs-accelerates-like-a-supercar

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EV Rally King Confirmed For EV Conference

Climate heavy hitter also confirmed Multiple Kiwi rally champion, World Rally Championship driver and now electric rally car constructor Hayden Paddon has confirmed as being a key speaker for The EVent, the EVs & Beyond conference to be held on Waiheke Island on March 1 and 2, 2021.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/ev-rally-king-confirmed-for-ev-conference

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Jazz Will Swing In By Mid-Year

Honda’s new Jazz range which is expected to go on sale here before the middle of the year will include a hybrid version. Honda New Zealand says the new model is “the biggest change to the Jazz since the first generation launched in 2002.”

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/jazz-will-swing-in-by-mid-year

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Volvo Records Best-Ever NZ Sales Month

Volvo has made an exceptional sales start to 2021, says the Swedish brand’s new general manager Ben Montgomery. In January, Volvo NZ set a new sales record, retailing more than 100 vehicles – an improvement of more than 36% over its previous record.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/volvo-records-best-ever-nz-sales-month

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GM Going Green

General Motors (GM) aims to be carbon neutral by 2040 in its global products and operations. It’s also working towards an all-electric future and aspires to eliminate tailpipe emissions from new light-duty vehicles by 2035.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/gm-going-green

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Car Share Will Help Reduce Emissions

The government’s emissions announcement is a great first step towards reducing emissions per car but more is needed – especially in encouraging people to ditch their private car for other modes such as car share and public transport.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/car-share-will-help-reduce-emissions/

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Biden A Boon For Electric Trucks

The US electric truck market is primed for huge growth under president Joe Biden’s EV revolution. So says IDTechEx in its 20-year forecast Electric Truck Markets 2021-2041 about the battery electric and fuel cell (FCEV) truck outlook, adding Biden’s administration will also benefit Tesla’s Semi.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/biden-a-boon-for-electric-trucks/

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Industry leader slams proposals for imports

VIA warns the public will be forced to pay more for cars and face less choice under the government’s “unrealistic” policies.

https://autofile.co.nz/industry-leader-slams-proposals-for-imports-

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Toyota NZ Calls For EV Initiatives In Face Of ‘Tough Ask’ Co2 Targets

In the wake of yesterday’s news of a planned Clean Car Standard, set to come into full effect in 2025, Toyota New Zealand CEO Neeraj Lala has stressed the importance of setting up initiatives to help make next-gen vehicles more accessible to buyers.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/toyota-nz-calls-for-ev-initiatives-in-face-of-tough-ask-co2-targets

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Volvo Smashes Local Records In Successful January

In the midst of the latest wave of Covid-19 panic, Volvo New Zealand has scooped a significant local sales scalp — recording its best month of sales in history.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/volvo-smashes-local-records-in-successful-january

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Tesla Could Be Delivering Cybertrucks By The End Of 2021

Tesla’s most talked about project could be hitting the pavement for real by the end of this year, according to the tech firm’s CEO Elon Musk.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/tesla-could-be-delivering-cybertrucks-by-the-end-of-2021

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Govt Emissions Strategy Could Lead To More Unsafe Cars, Says MTA

Yesterday’s Clean Car Standard announcement from the New Zealand Government has triggered responses from all over the motoring industry, ranging from distributors, to the Automobile Association, to the Motor Industry Association itself.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/govt-emissions-strategy-could-lead-to-more-unsafe-cars-says-mta

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Hyundai’s Bolsters Hot SUV Range With New Tucson N-Line

On the heels of a long, long list of new releases over the last 12 months, Hyundai has shown off its first N-ified version of its upcoming all-new Tucson — the N-Line. The unveiling loops the Tucson in with other Hyundais that have been given the N-Line treatment, including the i20, i30, Sonata, and more.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hyundai-s-bolsters-hot-suv-range-with-new-tucson-n-line

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EV Torque – New Year’s Wishes

It’s now just nine years until the United Kingdom bans the sale of new fossil-fueled vehicles and New Zealand is still wondering what to do. We have yet to see the level of ambition, or any sort of plan needed to transition our fleet towards EVs.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/ev-torque-february-2021

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Plan To Ban Cars On Queen St Met With Criticism

Along with the New Zealand government’s roll-out of revised speed limits around Auckland central, it’s also set to undertake a ban on cars on the CBD’s most congested road, Queen Street.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/plan-to-ban-cars-on-queen-st-met-with-criticism

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Holdens Make History: Last Aussie V8 And Maloo W1 Sell For Almost $2M

It was a big day yesterday for the fallen lion, as two of the most significant Holdens of recent history crossed the auction floor at Lloyd’s Auctions.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/holdens-make-history-last-aussie-v8-and-maloo-w1-sell-for-almost-2m

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Electric Ford F-150 more appealing in nearly every way than Tesla Cybertruck

A recent study looking at which electric truck people prefer has found that the forthcoming electric version of the Ford F-150 is more appealing than Tesla’s much-hyped Cybertruck.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124064765/electric-ford-f150-more-appealing-in-nearly-every-way-than-tesla-cybertruck

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Volkswagen loses title of world’s top-selling carmaker to Toyota

Toyota overtook Volkswagen in 2020 to become the world’s top-selling automaker, the first time the Japanese group has clinched the position in five years.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300217026/volkswagen-loses-title-of-worlds-topselling-carmaker-to-toyota

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Tesla goes Plaid and beyond

Tesla has given the Model S and X a healthy update for the new year, including the long-awaited Plaid versions.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124089469/tesla-goes-plaid-and-beyond

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General Motors sets goal of going largely electric by 2035

General Motors has set a goal of making the vast majority of the vehicles it produces electric by 2035, and the entire company carbon neutral, including operations, five years after that.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/300217031/general-motors-sets-goal-of-going-largely-electric-by-2035

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The iconic Jaguar C-Type is back in production

Good news, fans of old, out-of-production British sports cars. Jaguar has officially added the C-Type to its Classic Continuation family.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124082536/the-iconic-jaguar-ctype-is-back-in-production

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Next-gen Honda Jazz headed to New Zealand

Honda New Zealand has finally confirmed the fourth-generation Jazz will land on New Zealand roads, after the model debuted at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124095238/nextgen-honda-jazz-headed-to-new-zealand

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‘Last ever’ Holden built in Australia sells for $800,000 at auction

The last Holden car built in Australia was auctioned on Saturday, selling for an eye-watering A$750,000 (NZ$796,000).

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300218387/last-ever-holden-built-in-australia-sells-for-800000-at-auction

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Tesla’s new Model S Plaid + revealed as the quickest production car ever

The new Tesla Model S looks set to become the world’s quickest production car. Heavily updated for 2021, Tesla’s game-changing electric sedan brings fresh looks inside and out, along with heavily reworked drivelines that make it shockingly fast.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/tesla-s-new-model-s-plaid-revealed-as-the-quickest-production-car-ever/

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All-time sales record for Volvo NZ in January – and farewell to diesel engines and CDs!

Never mind Covid-19: Volvo New Zealand has achieved an all-time sales record in January – and the month’s not even over yet.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/all-time-sales-record-for-volvo-nz-in-january-and-farewell-to-diesel-engines-and-cds/

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PODCAST: Who came out on top in 2020? Zooming with DRIVEN

We’re back for 2021! So what better time to go over the year that has been in terms of new car sales, and see which brands outperformed expectations – there were quite a few!

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/who-came-out-on-top-in-2020-zooming-with-driven/

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Don’t miss a thing…

What’s in the daily email?

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Eight new-build C-types mark Jaguar icon’s 70th

Almost 70 years ago, Jaguar won the Le Mans 24-hour endurance race in France with its revolutionary C-type sports racing car, the forerunner of the legendary D-type.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/eight-new-build-c-types-mark-jaguar-icons-70th

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Roof of many colours on new Mini

A multi-coloured roof is a unique option on the all-new Mini Hatch due to go on sale here in the second half of 2021. BMW announced details of the revised Hatch and Convertible this week, though exact local specifications and price are yet to be confirmed.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/roof-of-many-colours-on-new-mini

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AA: Target may not be achievable

The AA is supportive of the Government’s announcements today to reduce transport emissions, but is concerned that the proposed targets may not be possible within the timeframe.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/aa-target-may-not-be-achievable

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Standard ‘nothing short of virtue signalling’ – VIA Chief Executive

VIA chief executive David Vinsen has called the government’s announcement today that it will go ahead with a vehicle emissions standard as ‘nothing short of virtue signalling.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/standard-nothing-short-of-virtue-signalling-via-chief-executive

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Toyota welcomes emissions policy; confirms first EV

Hybrid-leader Toyota New Zealand has released a statement in support of new emissions standards released by the government today. Chief executive Neeraj Lala says Toyota New Zealand is committed to reducing the carbon footprint across the full life of its product lines, including manufacturing, distribution and tail pipe emissions.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/toyota-welcomes-emissions-policy-confirms-first-ev

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How will the clean car importation standard work?

How will the new clean car import standard work? Here is a basic – and changing – guide, taken from material released with the announcement and other standards.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/how-will-the-clean-car-importation-standard-work

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Concerns over speed of CO2 rules on vehicles

Prime minister Jacinda Ardern has today confirmed new average emissions standards for light vehicles, a move likely to change the vehicles Kiwi’s can purchase to a level not seen since the importation of used vehicles was opened up in the 1980s.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/concerns-over-speed-of-co2-rules-on-vehicles

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Nissan to be carbon neutral by 2050

Nissan plans to achieve carbon neutrality across its operations and the life cycle of its vehicles by 2050, the company said this week. And by the early 2030s every all-new Nissan in key markets will be electrified.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/nissan-to-be-carbon-neutral-by-2050

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NZ ban on new ice passenger vehicle sales suggested from 2035

A sales ban on new internal combustion engine (ICE) passenger vehicles in New Zealand is proposed from at least 2035. So says a newly released study by Concept Consulting and Retyna which adds that more rapid EV uptake could save Kiwis $15 billion in vehicle, fuel and carbon emission costs

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/nz-ban-on-new-ice-passenger-vehicle-sales-suggested-from-2035

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Mercury backs policy fast lane for EVs

Mercury welcomes the government’s announcement it will push ahead with introducing a clean car import standard and its signalled openness to a “feebate” scheme to encourage faster EV uptake.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/mercury-backs-policy-fast-lane-for-evs/

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Tesla updates Model S and X

Tesla has launched one its biggest updates to the Model S and Model X. The ground-up rethink to its flagship vehicles introduces an all-new interior, two new powertrains, more performance, technology and refined styling.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/tesla-updates-model-s-and-x/

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Tesla’s Q4 2020 profitable

Tesla is ahead on revenue after producing its sixth consecutive profitable quarter but missed meeting its earnings target in its newly released report on fourth quarter earnings last year.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/teslas-q4-2020-profitable/

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Emission reduction measures announced

A ‘Clean Car Import Standard’ to reduce emissions and Kiwis’ fuel costs will be passed this year and the standard start next year. That’s among a raft of measures planned by the government to help meet New Zealand’s 2050 carbon neutral target,

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/emission-reduction-measures-announced/

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First step towards planned EV transition welcomed

Drive Electric welcomes the government’s announcement of a ‘Clean Car Import Standard’, saying it’s the first step toward a planned EV transition.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/first-step-towards-planned-ev-transition-welcomed/

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Clean Car Import Standard, The First Step Towards A Planned EV Transition

Emissions import standards announcement a sign that 2021 will be the year we get serious about cleaning up our cars

https://driveelectric.org.nz/media-release-clean-car-import-standard-the-first-step-towards-a-planned-ev-transition/

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Marques face ‘tough ask’ to hit emissions goals

Toyota NZ commits to reducing its carbon footprint and prepares to launch its first pure electric car in the local market. Toyota New Zealand has pledged to dramatically cut its carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions but admits the latest targets set by the government are a “tough ask”.

https://autofile.co.nz/marques-face-tough-ask-to-hit-emissions-goals-

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AA raises clean-car standard concerns

Warning that the car industry will need more time to adjust to tough emissions rules. The AA fears the government’s new proposals to cut transport emissions may lead to higher prices for new cars and people hanging on to older vehicles for longer.

https://autofile.co.nz/aa-raises-clean-car-standard-concerns-

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EV advocate hails plans to cut emissions

Clean-car standard tipped to boost the number of EVs in our new and used vehicle markets. Drive Electric has welcomed the government’s latest push to cut transport emissions as a “first step towards managing a transition away from fossil fuel vehicles”.

https://autofile.co.nz/ev-advocate-hails-plans-to-cut-emissions-

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Industry body urges rethink over clean-car policy target

The MIA wants new and used imported vehicles to face the same rules and warns the government is moving too fast on slashing emissions. The Motor Industry Association (MIA) is calling on the government to slow down its plans to cut carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from passenger vehicles.

https://autofile.co.nz/industry-body-urges-rethink-over-clean-car-policy-target-

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Used car prices drive up CPI

Buyers unable to travel overseas are reportedly turning to vehicles and other big-ticket purchases instead. Prices for used cars enjoyed their biggest climb in more than 20 years after increasing in the December quarter by 4.6 per cent when compared to the previous three months, according to Stats NZ.

https://autofile.co.nz/used-car-prices-drive-up-cpi-

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How EVs can save Kiwis $15b

Consultancies call for a suite of policies to help car buyers pick low-emissions vehicles over those with petrol or diesel engines. Accelerating the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) may save New Zealanders $15 billion in vehicle, fuel and carbon emission costs by 2050, according to a new study.

https://autofile.co.nz/how-evs-can-save-kiwis-15b-

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NZ Govt announces plan to slash gas guzzlers by 2025

Today the New Zealand Government has confirmed a significant step in its plans to reduce CO2 emissions on home soil, most notably by introducing a new Clean Car Standard by 2025 — just four years away — which will impact both new cars and used cars.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/nz-govt-announces-plan-to-slash-gas-guzzlers-by-2025

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Tesla unveils new Model S, features ‘knight rider’ style steering wheel

After an onslaught of coverage on the nameplate, Tesla has finally unveiled its new and improved Model S — the large ‘sedan’ that helped start the firm’s path to becoming an electric car powerhouse. And the Model X has inherited a series of updates, too.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/tesla-unveils-new-model-s-features-knight-rider-style-steering-wheel

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Honda NZ finally confirms all-new Jazz for kiwi line-up

After plenty of will-they-won’t-they speculation, Honda’s local arm has confirmed that the all-new Jazz will be sold in New Zealand, with its arrival scheduled for the second quarter of 2021.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/honda-nz-finally-confirms-all-new-jazz-for-kiwi-line-up

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Analysis: Car brands will struggle to hit govt’s strict new CO2 rules

The big news of the day is the New Zealand government’s roll-out of a new Clean Car Standard plan that it aims to pass by the end of the year, designed to minimise the amount of CO2 emissions produced by Kiwi motorists each year.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/analysis-car-brands-will-struggle-to-hit-govt-s-strict-new-co2-rules

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Toyota NZ calls for EV initiatives in face of ‘tough ask’ CO2 targets

In the wake of yesterday’s news of a planned Clean Car Standard, set to come into full effect in 2025, Toyota New Zealand CEO Neeraj Lala has stressed the importance of setting up initiatives to help make next-gen vehicles more accessible to buyers.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/toyota-nz-calls-for-ev-initiatives-in-face-of-tough-ask-co2-targets

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Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS powers up

Triumph has given its range-topping supernaked a thorough update for 2021, including a revamped engine with a healthy gob more power. The traditional three-cylinder layout continues but capacity has been bumped from 1050cc to 1160cc.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124067309/triumph-speed-triple-1200-rs-powers-up

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Small Minis and mad M5s

Mini has given the Cooper a decent update for 2021 and BMW has decided the M5 isn’t quite as much of a lunatic as it could be. There’s something for everyone!

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124076214/small-minis-and-mad-m5s

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Local motor industry responds to new emissions rules

The Government today announced new key policy decisions to reduce New Zealand’s carbon emissions generated by the transport industry. These include promising to pass a law implementing its long-planned Clean Car Import Standard this year, as part of a suite of climate change measures.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124080042/local-motor-industry-responds-to-new-emissions-rules

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Watch: SSC’s Tuatara sets production car speed record with 450km/h run

Just when we thought that SSC had blown the Koenigsegg out of the water with a blistering top speed run over in the Nevada desert, the brand was called out over legitimacy concerns.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/watch-ssc-s-tuatara-sets-production-car-speed-record-with-450km-h-run/

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How GM plans to protect its new Corvette from ‘heavy-footed’ owners

Chevrolet will artificially limit the power of the new Corvette when it reaches New Zealand Australian markets because owners can’t be trusted to read its manual.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/how-gm-plans-to-protect-its-new-corvette-from-heavy-footed-owners/

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M5 CS: BMW’s most powerful car of all time confirmed for NZ

If you aren’t familiar with BMW’s CS badge yet, it’s found on the most hardcore variants of the M cars, and we’ve seen it appear on the M3 and the M2 previously.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/m5-cs-bmw-s-most-powerful-car-of-all-time-confirmed-for-nz/

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Government Clean Car Standard for New Zealand: what exactly does a 105g model look like?

The New Zealand Government’s just-announced Clean Car Standard has set a CO2 target of 102g/km by 2025, a reduction of almost 40 per cent from the current new-vehicle average. Utes and vans must hit 132g in the same timeframe.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/government-clean-car-standard-for-new-zealand-what-exactly-does-a-105g-model-look-like/

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MIA Now Supports Fuel Economy Standard

The year that was 2020 has come and gone, resigned now to the history books. I, like everyone else I suspect, am happy to see the back of 2020 and have high hopes for 2021.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mia-now-supports-fuel-economy-standard

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Lead, Test Drive And Sales By Source December 2020 (Vs November 2020)

Welcome to 2021! As we start the new year it’s appropriate to look back on the last few months of 2020 for the most popular sources of leads, test drives, and sales amongst kiwi dealers in December.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/lead-test-drive-and-sales-by-source-december-2020-vs-november-2020

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Build The Perfect Ute – RVE Configurator

Vehicle enhancement specialists RVE used its time in COVID lockdown this year to begin work on a tool that will help customers build their perfect vehicle – and enhance dealer profits in the process.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/build-the-perfect-ute-rve-configurator

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Navara Set For March On-Sale Date

Nissan’s new Navara ute range will consist of 16 models wehen it goes on sale in New Zealand in March. The new Navara is available with 4X2 and 4X4 drivetrains and in three cab styles – Single, King and Double Cab.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/navara-set-for-march-on-sale-date

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Video: New Outlander Shown Testing Before February Debut

A video of the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander undergoing final tuning and testing has been released by the company ahead of its global debut on February 17 at 8am Japan Standard Time (JST).

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/video-new-outlander-shown-testing-before-february-debut

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Maritime Union Doubles Down On Ports Of Auckland Criticism

The Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) is doubling down on its view that Ports of Auckland’s “failed automation plan” is causing delays and staff shortages but the port has previously hit back and calls the claims “entirely false and malicious”.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/maritime-union-doubles-down-on-ports-of-auckland-criticism

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Last Holden Built Goes To Auction Saturday

A unique piece of Australian motoring history, the last Holden to leave the production line, goes under the auctioneer’s hammer in an online sale this weekend and is expected to sell for at least $Au500,000.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/last-holden-built-goes-to-auction-saturday

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E-Mobility Likely In CCC Report

“Strong signals” regarding EV uptake are expected in a draft plan to be released by the Climate Change Commission (CCC) on February 1. “I think they will be going for it on EVs,” Drive Electric chair Mark Gilbert says,

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/e-mobility-likely-in-ccc-report/

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Fimer’s Three-Phase Inverter Here In April

Global e-mobility and solar firm Fimer introduces its new PVS-10/33-TL three-phase string inverter solutions for commercial and industrial applications to Australia and New Zealand in April 2021.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/fimers-three-phase-inverter-here-in-april/

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Velodyne Lidar Launches Digital Learning Series

New digital learning series Velodyne Lidar LIVE! starts January 28 at 1pm Pacific Standard Time (PST is about 21 hours behind New Zealand and 19 hours behind Australia).

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/velodyne-lidar-launches-digital-learning-series/

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Peugeot E-Partner Van Due In UK November

An electric light commercial van (LCV) will be added to Peugeot’s EV range to complete its aim of offering a full range of electric vans by the end of this year.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/peugeot-e-partner-van-due-in-uk-november/

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Digital store speeds access to models

The chance to be among the first to snap up a special edition model helps kickstart BMW NZ’s new venture. BMW New Zealand has launched a new online store to allow customers to secure upcoming models months before their arrive in the country.

https://autofile.co.nz/digital-store-speeds-access-to-models-

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Mercedes-Benz tops luxury sales

Marque hopes new models planned for 2021 will continue to make it a favourite among New Zealand buyers. Mercedes-Benz Cars launched 17 new models and variants, including the GLB compact seven-seater SUV, on its way to becoming number-one luxury marque in New Zealand for the sixth consecutive year.

https://autofile.co.nz/mercedes-benz-tops-luxury-sales-

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Nissan Unveils Light Price Hike For Updated Navara Ute

Late last year Nissan revealed its updated Navara, sporting more American-inspired looks, improved tech, and increased capability thanks to more payload and a beefed up rear axle. Now, Nissan’s local arm has unveiled Kiwi pricing.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/nissan-unveils-light-price-hike-for-updated-navara-ute

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Million-Dollar Holden Maloo GTSR W1 Could Be Given Away In Raffle

With just three days and six hours to go at the time of writing, bidding on what’s now the equal most expensive Australian-produced car of all time — an HSV Maloo GTSR W1 — sits at AU$1.05million.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/million-dollar-holden-maloo-gtsr-w1-could-be-given-away-in-raffle

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Oil Companies Starting To Invest More In Green Solutions

Overnight, Dutch oil firm Shell confirmed that it’s buying a full 100 per cent stake in charging company Ubitricity. The German-based start-up specialises in building EV car chargers from lamp posts and has a 13 per cent market share of charging points in the UK, a greater market share than any other charging firm.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/oil-companies-starting-to-invest-more-in-green-solutions

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BMW’s Most Powerful Car Ever: 627Hp BMW M5 Cs Revealed

While it’s unknown just how much longer the world’s motoring brands will continue to produce high performance internal combustion performance sedans, it’s clear that a lot of brands are clearing their throats, and making an attempt at giving the genre an emphatic swansong.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/bmw-s-most-powerful-car-ever-627hp-bmw-m5-cs-revealed

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Mini Unveils Juicy Update For 2021 Mini Line-Up

Barely a few months after it launched the fully electric Mini Cooper Electric on Kiwi shores, Mini has revealed not only a new version of its first EV, but a new-look Cooper and Cooper S as well.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/mini-unveils-juicy-update-for-2021-mini-line-up

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The Last V8 Holden Commodore Ever Produced Up For Sale

In what’s already been a stupendous month for Holden auctions, let’s add another one to the mix. Along with the skunkworks-project HSV Maloo GTSR W1 ute that’s currently bidded to over AU$1million, an auction has sprouted up with the last V8-powered, Australian-produced Holden ever made.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/the-last-v8-holden-commodore-ever-produced-up-for-sale

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Facelifted Nissan Navara priced and specced

Nissan New Zealand has confirmed local pricing and specifications for the 2021 Navara, due in showrooms by March 2021. The refreshed Navara features a new front end, taking design inspiration from the North American Titan.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124066135/facelifted-nissan-navara-priced-and-specced

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Master P partnering with former Tesla engineer to create black-owned supercar maker

Master P has announced his latest business endeavor: supercars. The New Orleans rapper took to Instagram to reveal that he’s working with former Tesla engineer Richard Patterson to develop the next era of supercars called Trion Supercars.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300215050/master-p-partnering-with-former-tesla-engineer-to-create-blackowned-supercar-maker

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Next Ford F-150 Raptor will get V6 and V8 power

The next-generation Ford F-150 Raptor will soon be unveiled and, rumour has it, the range-topping truck will get a choice of V6 or V8 engines.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124058614/next-ford-f150-raptor-will-get-v6-and-v8-power

---

Rivian scores $3.3 billion investment from Amazon

Most people haven’t heard of this car company, but it could soon be a household name thanks to some big time investors. American electric car start-up Rivian has been building a giant war chest to take on the might of Tesla.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/rivian-scores-3-3-billion-investment-from-amazon/

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Wacky wagon: Modern Ferrari Breadvan is a V12-powered tribute to an icon

While car enthusiasts can’t seem to get behind SUVs, station wagons and shooting brakes on the other hand fall into the uber-cool category and the world can’t seem to get enough of them.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/wacky-wagon-modern-ferrari-breadvan-is-a-v12-powered-tribute-to-an-icon/

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It’s back: Mini unveils new Cooper Hatch and Convertible models

While the majority of the automotive industry is looking towards futuristic new electric styling, it seems that Mini has no plans to ditch its retro style, unveiling the new Cooper models just recently.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/it-s-back-mini-unveils-new-cooper-hatch-and-convertible-models/

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Grab a slice of Holden history with the very last Australian-built Commodore

The very last Holden ever manufactured in Australia has been put up for auction this weekend and looks set to fetch a hefty $500,000.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/grab-a-slice-of-holden-history-with-the-very-last-australian-built-commodore/

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Jaguar Land Rover Prepares For EVs

Advanced lightweight composite research will help Jaguar Land Rover prepare for future EVs to deliver increased range, greater performance and a more dynamic drive.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/jaguar-land-rover-prepares-for-evs

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BMW Online Store Gives Early Access To New Models

Want to be the first in town to own BMW’s new X2 Mesh Edition model? That’s the offer BMW New Zealand is making with the launch of its all-new online BMW Store and an exclusive opportunity to buy an X2 Mesh Edition months before its official local launch.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/bmw-online-store-gives-early-access-to-new-models

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Biden Wants EVs For Entire US Federal Fleet

US president Joe Biden will replace all 645,000 US federal vehicles with US-made EVs. This includes 245,000 civilian vehicles, 173,000 military vehicles, and 225,000 post office vehicles, Electrek reports, adding there’s no specific details or time frame yet.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/biden-wants-evs-for-entire-us-federal-fleet

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Skoda NZ Supports School Cycling

Skoda New Zealand is the new naming sponsor for Cycling New Zealand Schools’ sanctioned events for the next three years. The automotive brand already has a well-established relationship with cycling, such as providing vehicles to Cycling New Zealand, and started as a bicycle manufacturer.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/skoda-nz-supports-school-cycling

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Aquilina Takes Reins At Cadillac International

Former Holden New Zealand boss Kristian Aquilina has started his new job, running iconic brand Cadillac’s international operations and Cadillac Middle East.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/aquilina-takes-reins-at-cadillac-international

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Porsche Taycan Model Range Extended

Porsche is launching the fourth variant of its first all-electric sports saloon the Taycan. The rear-wheel drive Taycan with the option of two battery sizes is expected to start arriving in global dealerships from mid-March.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/porsche-taycan-model-range-extended

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China Teslas Expected Here

China-made Tesla Model 3 and Y EVs are expected in Australia and New Zealand.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/china-teslas-expected-here/

---

Spending on cars enjoys summer surge

Consumers end 2020 by spending millions more dollars on their cars than in previous years. Spending on vehicles surged to $218 million in December, with the monthly boost helping push figures for the final quarter of 2020 to a record $631m.

https://autofile.co.nz/spending-on-cars-enjoys-summer-surge-

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Community mourns car dealer

Accident claims the life of a successful businessman who was also an avid supporter of local organisations. A prominent used car dealer has died following a tragic accident, with staff at the business he ran on Auckland’s North Shore describing his death as a “great loss”.

https://autofile.co.nz/community-mourns-car-dealer-

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Big Change At Lotus: Elise, Exige Bid Farewell, Hybrid On The Way

Lotus, an iconic brand that’s announced plenty but actioned little in recent times, has finally bitten the bullet — confirming comprehensive changes to its line-up overnight while giving pointers to its replacement.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/big-change-at-lotus-elise-exige-discontinued-hybrid-on-the-way

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Watch: All-New Mitsubishi Outlander Is A Demon On Gravel

On February 16, Mitsubishi will finally reveal a replacement for its seasoned veteran Outlander — an SUV that’s used just one platform since 2006. Thanks to spy images we already have a fairly good idea what the mid-sizer is going to look like. But, Mitsubishi ardently continue to tease the model; it’s latest effort being a gritty video of its going through performance testing while dressed in camouflage.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/watch-all-new-mitsubishi-outlander-is-a-demon-on-gravel

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BMW’s X2 Gets New Clothes And A Unique Brand First

The BMW X2 feels like a somewhat forgotten player in the premium compact SUV space-race, despite being one of the sweetest to drive and despite featuring one of the most iconic badges.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/bmw-s-x2-gets-new-clothes-and-a-unique-online-first

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A year of poor planning led to carmakers’ massive chip shortage

Near-sighted planning, supply-chain complexities and a tradition of keeping inventories low caused the semiconductor shortage that is now forcing carmakers to idle production lines and straining their relationship with chip manufacturers.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300214127/a-year-of-poor-planning-led-to-carmakers-massive-chip-shortage

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Toyota the most searched car brand of 2020

Last year, Australian researchers crunching Google data found that BMW was the most searched for car brand of 2019. Now, it appears those researchers have nothing better to do than look up search statistics about cars because they found that Toyota knocked BMW off the throne in 2020.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124053863/toyota-the-most-searched-car-brand-of-2020

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BMW promises ‘sheer driving pleasure’ from its Tesla-rivalling i4 sedan

It’s a bold claim, but BMW is promising that its forthcoming i4 Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) will be very much the pure-electric equivalent of a 3/4 Series in terms of driving dynamics.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/bmw-promises-sheer-driving-pleasure-from-its-tesla-rivalling-i4-sedan/

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Skoda’s new SUV is called ‘Kushaq’: and you thought it would have run out of K-and-q names

Skoda is really sticking to its guns about SUVs having names that start with “K” and end in a “q” (which was pretty ambitious to start with). Its new baby SUV is called Kushaq, which translates from Sanskrit as “King”.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/skoda-s-new-suv-is-called-kushaq-and-you-thought-it-would-have-run-out-of-k-and-q-names/

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Ranger rules in NZ, but what are the best-selling new vehicles in other parts of the world?

The Ford Ranger has been the undisputed king of the new-vehicle sales charts in New Zealand for seven years now. Kiwis love utes and we love the Ranger to the point of giving it cult status.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/ranger-rules-in-nz-but-what-are-the-best-selling-new-vehicles-in-other-parts-of-the-world/

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Mercedes Tops Luxury Sales For Sixth Year

Mercedes-Benz was the number one luxury vehicle brand in New Zealand last year, topping sales for the sixth time running. Motor Industry Association registration data shows Mercedes-Benz sold 1967 new cars and SUVs here in 2020.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mercedes-tops-luxury-sales-for-sixth-year

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Obituary: Wheels On Wairau’s Graeme Rutherford

Prominent North Shore Auckland used car dealer Graeme Rutherford has died following what is described as a tragic accident on his property at Mangawhai north of Auckland.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/obituary-wheels-on-wairaus-graeme-rutherford

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Kiwi Electric Moped Due Out 2021

Wellington-based FTN Motion plans to launch an electric moped later this year. It looks more like a retro motorbike known as a ‘café racer’ and is designed for commuters with a 50km/h top speed from its 3kW rear hub motor and battery offering 100km range.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/kiwi-electric-moped-due-out-2021/

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Companies increasingly positive about economy

Growing demand for the construction sector leads an improvement in the overall economic outlook. Business confidence continues to improve, with companies feeling less pessimistic at the end of 2020 than they did at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

https://autofile.co.nz/companies-increasingly-positive-about-economy-

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Electric Car Ownership Study Underlines The Genre’s Biggest Issue

Late last week, J.D. Power released its inaugural EV Experience Ownership Study, which dived headfirst into the topic of electric car owner satisfaction.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/electric-car-ownership-study-underlines-the-genre-s-biggest-issue

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Ford’s EV Mustang Has Better Resale Value Than V8 Counterpart?

One of the most controversial new releases of 2020 was the Ford Mustang Mach-E — a fully electric mid-size crossover that had Ford Mustang clubs all over the US recoiling in horror, and seemingly few fans among the enthusiast community.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/ford-s-ev-mustang-has-better-resale-value-than-v8-counterpart

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Revealed: NZ’s Top Five Best-Selling Electric Cars of 2020

While our outright domestic registration figures for new-car sales were well down in 2020, sales of hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and EVs weren’t as affected. In fact, hybrid sales increased significantly. This is in line with global trends that saw electrified cars charge through the Covid-19 pandemic (pun not intended) almost unabated.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/revealed-nz-s-top-five-best-selling-electric-cars-of-2020

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VW Faces Big Fine For Missing Carbon Emissions Target

The normal reaction when the words ‘Volkswagen Group’ and ‘carbon emissions’ are mentioned in the same sentence these days is to scramble for the nearest pitch fork. But, last week’s tale of the firm facing a hefty fine for missing its emissions target is a slightly different story.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/vw-faces-big-fine-for-missing-carbon-emissions-target

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‘Simple acceleration isn’t enough’ for BMW’s electric i4

BMW is hard at work on its first proper go at the electric sports car market, to be called i4 Gran Coupe. Before it unveils the car in full,

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124045656/simple-acceleration-isnt-enough-for-bmws-electric-i4

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Great Scott! DeLorean DMC-12 returning as a not-quite-gigawatt EV

After a few years of uncertainty, it looks like the all-electric rebirth of the iconic DeLorean DMC-12 is back on track.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124044617/great-scott-delorean-dmc12-returning-as-a-notquitegigawatt-ev

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Five Things: Most embarrassing performance car family secrets

Every carmaker has a few misses on its record but some are worse than others. However, it is particularly bad when they manage to screw up a performance car. Or at least slap a performance badge on where it doesn’t belong…

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123989775/five-things-most-embarrassing-performance-car-family-secrets

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Why do our police keep avoiding electric vehicles?

The New South Wales Police Force has confirmed it will be testing a fully electric Hyundai Kona for twelve months as part of the Crime Prevention Unit as well as for community engagement. That’s a great move by the NSW Police but it also begs the question – why aren’t we doing the same?

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124000409/why-do-our-police-keep-avoiding-electric-vehicles

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How the hot stuff is taking over Seat SUVs in NZ (and we don’t just mean Cupra)

Seat is supposed to be the fun brand in the Volkswagen Group and it seems New Zealand buyers agree. An overwhelming preference for the sporty and/or fast models among Kiwi buyers has prompted a consolidation in the facelifted Ateca range for 2021.

https://www.driven.co.nz/reviews/how-the-hot-stuff-is-taking-over-seat-suvs-in-nz-and-we-don-t-just-mean-cupra/

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High-riding Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo spotted undisguised

While Tesla may rule the roost when it comes to global electric vehicle sales, Porsche managed to outdo the American company at its own game, blowing the automotive world away with the all-electric Taycan.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/high-riding-porsche-taycan-cross-turismo-spotted-undisguised/

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PODCAST: Dane Fisher On SIXT

In late 2020, Giltrap Group general manager of business development joined host Richard Edwards to discuss the brand’s new mobility and rental business SIXT.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/dane-fisher-on-sixt

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Tribunal Declares Taylor a Trader

The Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal declared banned trader Warwick Taylor’s broking activity as trading late last year – leaving little doubt that he is working against regulations.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/tribunal-declares-taylor-a-trader

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Steve West On Five Years Of Chargenet

Late in 2020, ChargeNet chief executive Steve West joined host Richard Edwards to discuss their growing network, plans for the future and the broader promotion of the EV industry.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/steve-west-on-five-years-of-chargenet/

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At Local EV Service Ditched at Devonport

AT Local, a publicly funded EV rideshare service on Auckland’s North Shore Devonport peninsula launched in 2018 by Auckland Transport (AT), has been dropped by the agency in favour of improved bus services in the area.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/at-local-ev-service-ditched-at-devonport/

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Nordic EV Summit Postponed Again

COVID-19 precautions have led to the postponement of the Nordic EV Summit from April 21 and 22 to November 10 and 11 this year.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/nordic-ev-summit-postponed-again/

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Ten Million BEVs And PHEVs On Global Roads

Cumulative EV sales reached 10.8 million in December 2020. So says EV-volumes in reporting that 2020 became a great year for plug-in vehicles.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/ten-million-bevs-and-phevs-on-global-roads/

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VW Teases Trinity EV

Volkswagen expects a new Trinity electric car will be its next flagship EV. The Trinity project is mentioned by VW chief executive Herbert Diess on Twitter, saying it comes after the ID.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/vw-teases-trinity-ev/

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Toyota Pays US$232M Settlement Over Emissions Lawsuit

The world’s largest vehicle manufacturer has been confirmed to have come under investigation by America’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over the understood failure to accurately self-report emissions data, with Toyota agreeing to a settlement after the five-year investigation closed.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/toyota-pays-us-232m-settlement-over-emissions-lawsuit

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“Blatant Speculation”: Ford Slams Electric Mustang Rumours

One of the big stories around the traps this week has been a fresh report claiming that the beloved Ford Mustang would become fully electric by the time its next generation came.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/blatant-speculation-ford-slams-electric-mustang-rumours

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Atecas Amended

The Cupra Ateca has been updated for 2021, likewise the Seat Ateca, subtly for the most part, but the big news for this year is the arrival of Cupra’s first offering that isn’t a Seat makeover.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/seat-and-cupra-ateca-amended-2020

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Porsche’s Next Electric Car Spotted Without Camouflage

Any questions or uncertainty about what Porsche’s upcoming Taycan Cross Turismo will look like can just about be thrown out the window, thanks to yet another spotting of the EV wagon, in public, with no camouflage.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/porsche-s-next-electric-car-spotted-without-camouflage

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Hyundai To Say Goodbye To Diesel Engines?

To put it lightly, Hyundai has a buck each way. They’ve quickly established themselves as a mainstream EV leader, while also dabbling in hydrogen.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hyundai-to-say-goodbye-to-diesel-engines

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Save The Date: Audi E-Tron GT Launch Confirmed For February

After literally years of flapping about with concepts, prototypes, spy footage, and camouflage, Audi has finally announced the launch date of its highly anticipated e-tron GT. And, it’s soon.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/save-the-date-audi-e-tron-gt-launch-confirmed-for-february

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Hyundai kills new diesel engine development

A new report from Korea is claiming Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) has stopped developing new diesel engines for itself as well as the Kia and Genesis brands.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124017064/hyundai-kills-new-diesel-engine-development

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Top automotive tech at CES 2021

The atmosphere at the 2021 Consumer Electronics Show, held virtually for the first time due to the pandemic, struck a different tone than in years past.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300211882/top-automotive-tech-at-ces-2021

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Lotus looks to Renault’s Alpine for help on electric sports car

Lotus Cars is looking outside its Chinese owner’s sprawling empire for help preparing for an electric future, joining forces with another small automaker to develop a battery-powered sports car.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/300211917/lotus-looks-to-renaults-alpine-for-help-on-electric-sports-car

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Volkswagen announces first details of brand new flagship

Volkswagen has revealed initial details of its new flagship – a state-of-the-art electric car called Project Trinity.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124025758/volkswagen-announces-first-details-of-brand-new-flagship

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Good Oil: How BMW M skidded right around Covid-19

BMW Group sales fell by 8.4 per cent worldwide in 2020, thanks mostly to Covid-19. But the company’s high-performance M division clearly has no time for pandemics and actually recorded a sales record of 144,218 globally, exceeding the previous best year by 5.9 per cent.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/good-oil-how-bmw-m-skidded-right-around-covid-19/

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Why a no-discount business model is a no-brainer for some Kiwi car companies

Toyota New Zealand (TNZ) made national headlines back in 2018 when it moved to an agency model of business called The Drive Happy Project.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/why-a-no-discount-business-model-is-a-no-brainer-for-some-kiwi-car-companies/

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Report: Ford to go all-electric with Mustang by 2029

It’s one of America’s most iconic badges, but the Ford Mustang might be going all-electric by 2029 if a recent industry report is correct.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/report-ford-to-go-all-electric-with-mustang-by-2029/

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Spanish brand Hurtan turns Mazda’s MX-5 into a vintage roadster

If you haven’t heard of Mitsuoka, you are missing out. It’s a Japanese brand that’s famous for turning normal cars into vintage masterpieces, with its most famous work being based on Nissan’s Silvia line-up.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/spanish-brand-hurtan-turns-mazda-s-mx-5-into-a-vintage-roadster/

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Seven models that show the MPV is alive and well

During the 1980s and 90s, you couldn’t go far without seeing a Mitsubishi L300 Sport Pack, Nissan Homy or Mazda Bongo Brawny out on the roads.

https://www.driven.co.nz/advice/advice/seven-models-that-show-the-mpv-is-alive-and-well/

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People Are Keen To Spend

Tauranga motorcycle dealer Bayride ended 2020 positively with very strong December sales and very few signs of consumer concern about spending. “December culminated in a buying frenzy,” says co-owner Damian Fleming.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/people-are-keen-to-spend

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Low Market Not Bad For Dealers – Online Discussion

Is a slower vehicle market bad for dealers? Not according to a number of industry experts who engaged with a discussion over the topic on AutoTalk managing editor Richard Edwards’ Linkedin page.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/low-market-not-bad-for-dealers-online-discussion

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Better Than Expected Trading Boosts Turners’ NPBT

Because trading results exceeded expectations across its vehicle retail, finance and insurance business units last November and December, Turners Automotive Group now expects its FY21 Net Profit Before Tax (NPBT) to be within a range of $33 million to $35 million.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/better-than-expected-trading-boosts-turners-npbt

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Border Delays Causing Issues For Import Trade

Delays caused by the shift of border inspection verification from Japan to New Zealand are causing an array of issues for the import trade – but authorities are insistent their work is necessary.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/border-delays-causing-issues-for-import-traden

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Mercedes-Benz EQA Due Here Mid-Year

The compact electric Mercedes-Benz EQA has been launched globally in a digital world premiere and is due in New Zealand from mid-2021 according to Mercedes-Benz Cars New Zealand Limited.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mercedes-benz-eqa-due-here-mid-year

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Toyota Reclaims Lead As Most Searched Car Brand

After dominating Google search terms in 2019, BMW has fallen back into second place and Toyota has reclaimed the title of most searched car brand in 2020.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/toyota-reclaims-lead-as-most-searched-car-brand

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Rivian Raises US$2.65B as EV Production Nears

Rivian has raised US$2.65 billion as it prepares to begin production later this year of its electric ute.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/rivian-raises-us2-65b-as-ev-production-nears/

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Vauxhall Combo-E Van in UK Showrooms This Year

A fully electric variant of Vauxhall’s award-winning Combo van has up to 275km range and 800kg maximum payload.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/vauxhall-combo-e-van-in-uk-showrooms-this-year/

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NZ To Hit 78,000 EVs In 2025?

New Zealand will probably get 33,000 EVs on the country’s roads by the end of this year and should reach 78,000 by the end of 2025.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/nz-to-hit-78000-evs-in-2025/

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New MPV takes cues from SUVs

Kia Carnival’s revamp makes it safer and more economical than its predecessors.

https://autofile.co.nz/new-mpv-takes-cues-from-suvs-

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Q&A: David Crawford

David Crawford, chief executive of the Motor Industry Association (MIA), talks to Autofile Online about the year that was and what the future holds.

https://autofile.co.nz/qa-david-crawford-

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Mercedes Unveils its Smallest, Cheapest Electric Car Yet

Another big step forward has been taken overnight in EV land, with Mercedes-Benz revealing one of the first premium electric compact crossovers in the form of its new 2021 EQA.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/mercedes-unveils-its-smallest-cheapest-electric-car-yet

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A Tesla … Convertible? Italian Firm Builds Stunning Model S Drop-Top

While Tesla is slowly working its way through building cars for each popular vehicle segment, for the moment those wanting a drop-top variant are out of luck. Unless you approach Italian coachbuilder Ares, that is.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/a-tesla-convertible-italian-firm-builds-stunning-model-s-drop-top

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Which Cars Are Buyers Most Likely To Keep For 15 Years?

The majority of new-car buyers generally hop behind the wheel of their fresh-scented machinery with the thought that they’ll probably have sold it to get something else some five years down the track.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/which-cars-are-buyers-most-likely-to-keep-for-15-years

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Lexus Confirms NZ Pricing, Specs For Its BMW 3 Series Fighter

Following its quiet local arrival last month, Lexus New Zealand has confirmed pricing and spec for its heavily updated IS compact sedan — a reshaped and more tech-laden version of the outgoing IS, with a modest price increase to match.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/lexus-confirms-nz-pricing-specs-for-its-bmw-3-series-fighter

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Rainbow Warrior: Volkswagen Brings Back ‘Harlequin’ Polo

If there was any sign that the troubles of 2020 were behind us, maybe it’s this — the recreation of one of Volkswagen’s zanier, sillier, more bizarre projects.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/rainbow-warrior-volkswagen-brings-back-harlequin-polo

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Mercedes-Benz reveals second all-electric model, the EQA

Mercedes-Benz has followed up the Top Cars category-winning EQC with a smaller all-electric SUV, dubbed EQA.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124005507/mercedesbenz-reveals-second-allelectric-model-the-eqa

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Porsche expands Taycan range with sub-$200k entry model

Porsche has revealed the new entry point to the Taycan range, simply called Taycan with no suffix.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124012336/porsche-expands-taycan-range-with-sub200k-entry-model

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New Israeli battery tech set to ‘revolutionise’ electric vehicles

Electric cars might be about to get much more desirable. An Israeli company called, StoreDot, is on the cusp of a major breakthrough that would remove one of the biggest hurdles to making electric cars mainstream.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/new-israeli-battery-tech-set-to-revolutionise-electric-vehicles/

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Renault’s feisty new Megane R.S Trophy confirmed for NZ

There are no two ways about it, the hot hatch segment includes the most interesting and easily accessible performance vehicles in the world right now, and Renault is about to add another option here in New Zealand.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/renault-s-feisty-new-megane-r-s-trophy-confirmed-for-nz/

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New Mercedes-Benz EQA revealed as the brand’s most affordable electric SUV

While it wasn’t the first German brand to turn its hand to EVs, Mercedes-Benz already knows the segment well, with its fully-electric EQC SUV winning the New Zealand Motor Writers Guild’s Car of the Year award in 2020.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/new-mercedes-benz-eqa-revealed-as-the-brand-s-most-affordable-electric-suv/

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Business As Usual Say Australasian Stellantis Distributors

The distribution networks which represent the various Stellantis vehicle brands in Australia and New Zealand say it is business as usual despite the formation of the new global company.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/business-as-usual-say-australasian-stellantis-distributors

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Tavares Announces Stellantis Leadership Team

Stellantis chief executive Carlos Tavares has named his top executive team and says the new company will have nine dedicated committees governing company-wide performance and strategy.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/tavares-announces-stellantis-leadership-team

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Waitangi Day 2021: Top Seven Employment Tips You Need To Know

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has released seven items you need to know about rights for employees and obligations for employers ahead of Waitangi Day.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/waitangi-day-2021-top-seven-employment-tips-you-need-to-know

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Building A More Sustainable Volkswagen Dealership

Volkswagen Group Retail Germany (VGRD GmbH) wants to reduce energy consumption and C02 emissions across all of its 120 dealerships in Germany.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/building-a-more-sustainable-volkswagen-dealership

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Hyundai Nz Launches Iload Freezer And Chiller Van

Hyundai New Zealand has expanded its van offering with a chilled vehicle solution – an iLoad freezer and chiller van.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/hyundai-nz-launches-iload-freezer-and-chiller-van

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Electric Airportlink Fleet Launched

South Auckland’s first fully electric bus service has been introduced by Auckland Transport (AT), with Auckland Airport and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/electric-airportlink-fleet-launched/

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Smartview Will Allow Charger Availability Check

How EVs use public charging and parking sites and whether they are overstaying their welcome will be determined under a Smart Christchurch plan to use new parking occupancy sensors in the city.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/smartview-will-allow-charger-availability-check/

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Jeff Dahn Re-Signs With Tesla And Joins Novonix

EV battery materials supplier and developer Novonix has appointed Tesla battery research head professor Jeff Dahn as its chief scientific advisor from July this year.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/jeff-dahn-re-signs-with-tesla-and-joins-novonix/

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US$52B EV Battery Cell And Pack Materials Market Forecast

Markets for lithium-ion battery materials such as nickel, cobalt, copper and insulation will see a rapid increase in demand that would not have been there without EVs, IDTechEx says.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/us52b-ev-battery-cell-and-pack-materials-market-forecast/

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Turners lifts profit guidance

Company says most of business uplift comes from lending volumes tracking ahead of previous year.

https://autofile.co.nz/turners-lifts-profit-guidance-

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Q&A: Craig Pomare

Autofile Online chats to Craig Pomare, chief executive of the Motor Trade Association (MTA), about 2020 and what’s in store for 2021.

https://autofile.co.nz/qa-craig-pomare-

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SUV shifts upmarket

Subaru tinkers with design and features of the Outback to build on quarter of a century of success.

https://autofile.co.nz/suv-shifts-upmarket-

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Marque unveils electric targets

Kia has unveiled details of its new brand purpose and ambitions with plans being made to roll out the strategy in New Zealand.

https://autofile.co.nz/marque-unveils-electric-targets-

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Naturally Aspirated V8 Hypercar Unveiled For Road And Track

Few motorsport incentives of the current day have enthusiasts as excited as the World Endurance Championship’s ‘Hypercar’ era — a new set of regulations designed to make the category’s top flight cars cheaper and more connected to a production car base.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/naturally-aspirated-v8-hypercar-unveiled-for-road-and-track

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Hot Hatch Wars: New Renault Megane RS Trophy On The Way

If it seems like the NZ Autocar office talks too much about hot hatches, well, I apologise. But, the fact remains that one of our favourite segments in the new-car market also happens to be one of the most competitive and intriguing of the bunch. And, now there’s a (sort of) new entrant.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hot-hatch-wars-new-renault-megane-rs-trophy-on-the-way

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Honda teases electrifed HR-V

Honda has confirmed it will release an electrified version of the HR-V SUV for the first time. Well, in Europe at least.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123994890/honda-teases-electrifed-hrv

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GM teams up with Microsoft on driverless cars

General Motors is teaming up with Microsoft to accelerate its rollout of electric, self-driving cars. In the partnership announced Tuesday, the companies said Microsoft’s Azure cloud and edge computing platform would be used to “commercialise its unique autonomous vehicle solutions at scale.”

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/300209652/gm-teams-up-with-microsoft-on-driverless-cars

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Rivian raises another US$2.65 billion in funding as EV nears launch

Rivian announced another US$2.65 billion (NZ$3.5 billion) in funding Tuesday, as the electric truck manufacturer gears up for its June launch.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/123998269/rivian-raises-another-us265-billion-in-funding-as-ev-nears-launch

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The best selling car in (nearly) every country

The automotive industry is constantly changing, at least if you keep up with the news. But it seems that out there in the real world, things move a bit slower.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123998808/the-best-selling-car-in-nearly-every-country

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Rolls-Royce to enter ultra-luxury electric motoring with upcoming ‘Silent Shadow’

The grand old dame of motoring is getting a modern makeover. Reports from UK publication Autocar suggest the brand is working on an electric Roller potentially called the “Silent Shadow”.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/rolls-royce-to-enter-ultra-luxury-electric-motoring-with-upcoming-silent-shadow/

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Bit much? Hennessey debuts 1000 HP RAM-based ‘Mammoth’ ute

While Hennessey isn’t known for its stellar customer service practices, it is known for turning already-fast vehicles into speed machines that defy the laws of physics through sheer power.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/bit-much-hennessey-debuts-1000hp-ram-based-mammoth-ute/

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Fletcher Resigns From FCAI

Well-known automotive communications executive Lenore Fletcher has resigned from her position as the public affairs director of the Australian Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/fletcher-resigns-from-fcai

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Swiss Award For Fostering Hydrogen

Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility (HHM) has been awarded the ‘Watt d’Or 2021’ for fostering Switzerland’s burgeoning hydrogen ecosystem.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/swiss-award-for-fostering-hydrogen/

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Q&A: David Vinsen

Autofile Online chats to David Vinsen, chief executive of the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA), about 2020 and what beckons in the future.

https://autofile.co.nz/qa-david-vinsen-

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Better than anticipated

New-vehicle sales still being affected by “stock constraints for high-volume models”. The Motor Industry Association (MIA) says registrations of new vehicles in New Zealand last year came in above expectations.

https://autofile.co.nz/better-than-anticipated-

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Ford Unveils Motorsport-Inspired Ranger Ute

In this ute-loving world it was just a matter of time before Ford would release a motorsport-themed version of its ever popular Ranger ute. Overnight, it did just that, in the form of the Ranger MS-RT.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/ford-unveils-motorsport-inspired-ranger-ute

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NZ Car Market Performed ‘Better Than Expected’ In 2020

The data is in regarding how New Zealand’s motoring market performed in 2020, one of the most tumultuous years for the industry in history thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/nz-car-market-performed-better-than-expected-in-2020

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Confirmed: NZ To Get Made-In-China Teslas, Prices Slashed

It’s been rumoured for a while, but now it’s been confirmed — sort of — that Australia and New Zealand will be getting Tesla Model 3s built by the EV manufacturer’s new Gigafactory in Shanghai instead of from the current Fremont, California factory.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/confirmed-nz-to-get-made-in-china-teslas-prices-slashed

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Fiat Chrysler And Peugeot Finally Seal Big Stellantis Merger

After plenty of discussions and will-they-won’t-they speculation, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and Peugeot Société Anonym (PSA) have confirmed a new union under the Stellantis banner.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/fiat-chrysler-and-peugeot-finally-seal-big-stellantis-merger

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Carmaker Stellantis off to a strong start

Stellantis, the car company combining PSA Peugeot and Fiat Chrysler, was launched Monday on the Milan and Paris stock exchanges, giving life to the fourth-largest auto company in the world.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300208511/carmaker-stellantis-off-to-a-strong-start

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‘Better than anticipated’ – new vehicle market drops 23 per cent in 2020

December’s vehicle registration figures are in and show a drop of 25 per cent compared to the same month in 2019.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123986339/better-than-anticipated–new-vehicle-market-drops-23-per-cent-in-2020

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Is Ford planning Bronco-based ute?

Ford looks like it’s planning a rough-and-tumble ute based on the new Bronco, which is a bit strange.

The news comes from user FourHorses on the Bronco6G.com forum, who spotted illustrations of a Bronco-based ute in an official Ford video, which is unlisted but embedded above.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123987089/is-ford-planning-broncobased-ute

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Toyota’s GR Yaris gets a heap of power and new body kit from HKS

For the week, DRIVEN has been lucky enough to have Toyota’s fiesta little GR Yaris on test, and without ruining the upcoming road test, we can confirm that it is an immeasurable amount of fun to drive.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/toyota-s-gr-yaris-gets-a-heap-of-power-and-new-body-kit-from-hks/

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Ford’s new Ranger MS-RT is a Raptor for the tarmac

Due to the high-riding nature of modern double-cab utes, brands and owners alike have ventured into the off-road sphere with modifications, but what about a more tarmac-friendly version?

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/ford-s-new-ranger-ms-rt-is-a-raptor-for-the-tarmac/

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Kiwi new-vehicle sales recover from Covid-19 better than expected for 2020

The New Zealand new-vehicle industry finished 2020 with total registrations of 119,398: well down on 2019 but still performing much better than expected when the country was in the midst of lockdown.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/kiwi-new-vehicle-sales-recover-from-covid-19-better-than-expected-for-2020/

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The Motor Industry Association (MIA) Press Releases

December 2020 sales statistics.

https://www.mia.org.nz/Press-Releases

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Opinion: Will Stellantis Deliver Synergies Of 5 Billion Euro?

The bells have been rung on the stock exchanges, the new Stellantis website is up and running but the question remains will the merger between Peugeot (Groupe PSA) and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) create 5 billion Euro in cost savings without closing a factory?

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/opinion-will-stellantis-deliver-synergies-of-5-billion-euro

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Boxster’s 25th Birthday Special

Porsche New Zealand is taking orders for the special 25th anniversary edition Boxster which is restricted to 1250 units worldwide and is based on the GTS 4.0 model. Prices in New Zealand start at $175,800 including GST and the first deliveries are expected in June and July.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/boxsters-25th-birthday-special

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Banned Trader Working With Prominent Dealer

An Auckland man, officially banned from trading motor vehicles until 2024, has been acting as an agent for at least one prominent Auckland dealership group. Warwick Taylor has a long troubled history within the automotive trade, predominately focussed on the cheaper or higher risk end of the market.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/banned-trader-working-with-prominent-dealer

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Volvo Cars To Triple EV Production

Volvo Cars is tripling electric car manufacturing capacity at its plant in Ghent, Belgium as it prepares to meet fast growing demand for its Recharge line-up of chargeable cars.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/volvo-cars-to-triple-ev-production

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Carnival Comes Into Town

Kia’s fourth generation Carnival people mover, built on a larger platform which it shares with the new Sorento SUV, has arrived on the New Zealand market. It’s available in three models – EX, Deluxe and Premium – all with a 2.2-litre diesel engine and eight-speed automatic gearbox.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/carnival-comes-into-town

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Video: Renault Accelerates E-Mobility

Groupe Renault aims to be a leader in vehicle electrification by 2025, producing more than 10 all-electrics and targeting half of all launches in Europe to be full EVs.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/video-renault-accelerates-e-mobility

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Stellantis Merger Completed Between Fiat-Chrysler And Peugeot

The merger between Groupe PSA (Peugeot-Citroen-DS-Vauxhall-Opel) and FCA (Fiat-Chrysler) that lead to the creation of Stellantis, which is now the world’s fourth largest global automotive manufacturer came into effect today.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/stellantis-merger-completed-between-fiat-chrysler-and-peugeot

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Warning over fake car parts

Audits of imported parts under way to prevent counterfeit goods sneaking into our vehicles. The Motor Trade Association (MTA) is warning businesses to avoid the temptation of buying counterfeit parts at a time when there is pressure on the supply chain because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

https://autofile.co.nz/warning-over-fake-car-parts-

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Urban economies set for boost

Bank forecasts better times for a number of regions but the road to recovery for areas reliant on tourism looks slow. Big cities are being tipped to share more in the economic recovery this year after rural regions have already bounced back more strongly from Covid-19.

https://autofile.co.nz/urban-economies-set-for-boost-

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Takata airbag alert as online searches soar

Industry body hails success of website for people wanting to know if their car is fitted with faulty devices. Car owners across the ditch are being advised to act soon over getting faulty Takata airbags fixed to avoid the risk of having their vehicles taken off the road.

https://autofile.co.nz/takata-airbag-alert-as-online-searches-soar-

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New Kia Carnival Lands, Shows SUVs Aren’t The Only Answer

You could be fooled into thinking that the only way to cart a large family around these days is with an SUV, such is the immense popularity of the genre. But, there are still a handful of manufacturers that will sell you a good old-fashioned minivan people mover in 2020. And among them is Kia.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/new-kia-carnival-lands-shows-suvs-aren-t-the-only-answer

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Volvo Readies For Petrol Purge By Tripling Electric Car Output

One of the more proactive mainstream European manufacturers when it comes to electrification, Volvo, has confirmed that it will be tripling its electric and plug-in hybrid car production capacity in 2021 at its plant in Ghent, Belgium.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/volvo-readies-for-petrol-purge-by-tripling-electric-car-output

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Ford Potentially Working On A Bronco Adventure Ute

There’s little denying that the Ford Ranger is a hugely popular vehicle in both New Zealand and Australia. It was this success that probably helped push over the line plans to bring the nameplate back to life in the blue oval’s homeland. And … maybe … there could be another ute model based on the same bones on the way.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/ford-ranger-s-us-cousin-bronco-ute-could-be-in-the-works

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Ares Design does the old Land Rover Defender right

Ares Design, known recently for bringing back the DeTomaso Pantera, seems to think Land Rover didn’t quite get the new Defender right.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123959862/ares-design-does-the-old-land-rover-defender-right

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Lidar tech on the rise at CES to power future smart cities, autonomous cars

Mobility analysts, urban planners and AI companies bill widespread lidar as a building block for future urban societies, where autonomous vehicles, smart homes and infrastructure work together to create “smart” cities.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300207730/lidar-tech-on-the-rise-at-ces-to-power-future-smart-cities-autonomous-cars

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Watch: Toyota builds a Supra that drifts itself in the name of safety

Thanks to its powerful engine and rear-wheel drive configuration, the Toyota Supra has always been a favourite among drifters, and with over 250kW coming from the BMW-sourced mill, the latest iteration is no exception.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/watch-toyota-builds-a-supra-that-drifts-itself-in-the-name-of-safety/

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Renault’s new R5 EV combines modern technology with classic styling

Ask any petrolhead about the best car that Renault has made, and they’ll most likely start babbling about the R5 Turbo, complete with its huge haunches and epic mid-mounted engine.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/renault-s-new-r5-ev-combines-modern-technology-with-classic-styling/