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So far Dan Angland has created 1393 blog entries.

January 14th, 2026

HOT TOPIC

// One Partner co-founder returns to dealership sector

One Partner Ltd co-founder Amos Banbury will leave the automotive finance business on 30 January 2026 to return full-time to motorcycle dealership operations.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// You Save with AutoCheck

“… its offering is the best in the market.”
Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… I can confidently say we never looked back.”
Davide Punturiero, Dealer Principal, Tristram European

“… I’d encourage you to trial it and experience the difference.”
Tina Doherty, Group Operations Manager, Ingham Motor Group

“… we regret not making the switch sooner …”
Hayden Dahm, Group Sales Manager, Manukau Toyota Group

BEST OF THE REST

// Trio score five-star ratings

The new MG 7 and GWM Haval H7 have scored five-star safety ratings from ANCAP after being put through a series of tests, although the latter is now the subject of a voluntary recall.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Nissan appoints Coughlan as Oceania communications head

Nissan Oceania has appointed Steve Coughlan as head of Communications effective immediately, drawing on more than 23 years of automotive experience gained across Australia, Hong Kong and Japan.

// Mazda EV bound for NZ

All-new SUV with an all-electric range of 484km is set to arrive here in late 2026.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Ford, Waymo, Tesla — Where Is Self-Driving Going in 2026?

One of the big automotive stories out of CES 2026 from the last week was Ford making an announcement about eyes-free driving coming to its models — affordable EVs even — in 2028.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

January 14th, 20262026-01-13T18:17:10+13:00

January 13th, 2026

HOT TOPIC

// Mazda CX-6e electric SUV confirmed for New Zealand

Mazda has confirmed it will launch the all-new CX-6e electric SUV in New Zealand, marking a further step in the brand’s transition toward electrification.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// EV2 unveiled: Kia’s most affordable EV gets up to 448km of range

Kia has unveiled the EV2 at the Brussels Motor Show, which is expected to become the brand’s cheapest electric vehicle.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// You Save with AutoCheck

“… its offering is the best in the market.”
Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… I can confidently say we never looked back.”
Davide Punturiero, Dealer Principal, Tristram European

“… I’d encourage you to trial it and experience the difference.”
Tina Doherty, Group Operations Manager, Ingham Motor Group

“… we regret not making the switch sooner …”
Hayden Dahm, Group Sales Manager, Manukau Toyota Group

BEST OF THE REST

// Nio sets sights on NZ

Chinese EV brand announces push into a number of right-hand drive markets in 2026.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Marque to boost SUV range

New bZ4X models feature higher-capacity batteries than previous generations for more range and power.

// Mercedes-Benz CLA crowned 2026 European Car of the Year

The Mercedes-Benz CLA sedan has been crowned as the 2026 Car of the Year, with the announcement coming at the Brussels Motor Show.

// New leaders down under for MG

Parent company makes two key appointments as it eyes next phase of growth down under.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Waymo Hiccup — Paying People $20 To Close Doors — To Get A Real Fix

With a new technology comes issues people haven’t adequately foreseen and prepared for. I’ve seen readers highlight potential problems with robotaxis like customers needing help with their luggage, but I don’t recall seeing anyone bring this one up: passengers not closing the door properly and then walking away.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

January 13th, 20262026-01-12T20:30:01+13:00

January 12th, 2026

HOT TOPIC

// Lender loses High Court bid

Judge rules parent company of Go Car Finance may be liable for alleged CCCFA breaches.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// You Save with AutoCheck

“… its offering is the best in the market.”
Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… I can confidently say we never looked back.”
Davide Punturiero, Dealer Principal, Tristram European

“… I’d encourage you to trial it and experience the difference.”
Tina Doherty, Group Operations Manager, Ingham Motor Group

“… we regret not making the switch sooner …”
Hayden Dahm, Group Sales Manager, Manukau Toyota Group

BEST OF THE REST

// Ram Trucks New Zealand celebrates ten years of large pick-up domination

Ram Trucks New Zealand is celebrating ten years of holding the top spot in the large pick-up truck segment.

IN OTHER NEWS

// SAIC Motor appoints new ANZ leadership team

SAIC Motor International has appointed Qing Zhang as chief executive officer for Australia and New Zealand, encompassing leadership of the company’s ANZ operations including the MG brand.

// Toyota bZ4X Touring confirmed for New Zealand: 280kW SUV-cum-wagon ‘built for weekend explorers’

Toyota New Zealand will launch the bZ4X Touring in the second quarter of this year. Essentially a wagon-style variant of its electric SUV, it’s part of revised bZ4X lineup that also includes a bigger battery and cabin upgrade.

// Nio to enter New Zealand market in second half 2026

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker Nio plans to launch in Australia and New Zealand in the second half of 2026, extending its overseas expansion through its Firefly sub-brand.

// All change at NZTA

Transport agency “refining” its organisational structure. PLUS – drug-driving tests.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

January 12th, 20262026-01-11T22:44:20+13:00

January 9th, 2026

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota RAV4 pricing for New Zealand revealed: it’s all on the up

Toyota New Zealand has announced pricing for its brand-new sixth-generation RAV4 lineup, set to go on sale “in the first half of the year”.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// NZ’s cheapest EV lacks side airbags, deemed “unrated” for safety

The Dongfeng Box currently on sale in New Zealand has just two airbags and does not match the specification of the vehicle tested by Euro NCAP, leaving it officially “unrated” by both ANCAP and NZTA.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Jaecoo’s J5 budget EV-SUV is on the way to New Zealand: tell your dog

Jaecoo claims its new J5 pure-electric SUV is the first vehicle on the market with a “pet friendly” interior, including upholstery made from a special silicone-based material and a range of themed accessories including a dog carrier.

// Toyota expands electric SUV range with bZ4X Touring

Toyota New Zealand is launching the new bZ4X Touring alongside a significantly upgraded bZ4X, with both electric SUVs scheduled to arrive in Autumn this year.

// Brand recalls two models

RAM, Volkswagen and Ford also issue safety alerts for vehicles after detecting potential problems.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// This Huge EV Charging Hub In NYC Will Run On Batteries

A new battery-powered charging station in New York City could be a game changer for the economics of juicing up an EV.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

January 9th, 20262026-01-08T16:43:16+13:00

January 8th, 2026

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota New Zealand announces pricing for 2026 RAV4 range

Toyota New Zealand has announced pricing and specifications for the 2026 RAV4 range, including the most powerful model yet — the GR Sport.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Collecting Cars achieves record NZ$80 million sales in 2025

Online auction platform Collecting Cars delivered a record NZ$80 million in sales across Australia and New Zealand during 2025, marking the strongest year in the company’s regional history.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// Hyundai Elexio coming to NZ?

Hyundai Australia has confirmed it will be adding the electric ELEXIO SUV to its line up in the first quarter of 2026. And what is good for the Aussies, is surely good for us Kiwis too, right?

IN OTHER NEWS

Screenshot

// Fiat Professional expands New Zealand dealer network

Fiat Professional has announced a significant expansion of its authorised dealer network across New Zealand, adding regional centres to its existing footprint as part of a strategic commitment to support local businesses.

// BMW adds Alexa AI to iX3 for when you need someone to talk to

BMW will become the first car manufacturer to integrate Amazon’s new Alexa+ artificial intelligence technology into production vehicles, with the system debuting in the BMW iX3 from the second half of 2026.

// Solid-state EV battery achieves five-minute charging

A Finnish company has announced the world’s first production-ready solid-state battery for electric vehicles (EVs), capable of charging to full capacity in just five minutes.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Sony And Honda Want To Make This Afeela Electric SUV

Afeela, the car brand born from the joint venture between Sony and Honda Mobility, unveiled an electric crossover prototype at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, paving the way for the nameplate’s second production model.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

January 8th, 20262026-01-07T22:31:40+13:00

January 7th, 2026

STATS WEEK

// Toyota maintains NZ dominance with record 2025 sales

Toyota New Zealand has extended its market leadership to 38 consecutive years, delivering a record 33,019 vehicle sales in 2025 despite challenging industry conditions.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// Changeover on VIA’s board

Tribute to Frank Willett as Jim Shi takes over as Autohub NZ’s representative.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Mahindra updates its XUV700, now known as 7XO

Mahindra has revealed the 2026 XUV 7XO in India ahead of an expected arrival in NZ later this year.

// Safety concerns over WOF plans

VIA warns longer inspection intervals for much of the fleet may undermine other policy goals.

// Call for maintenance education

Association for new-vehicle sector largely backs inspection changes put forward by government.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// The First Production All-Solid-State Battery Is Here, And It Promises 5-Minute Charging

Donut Lab claims it can build gigawatt-hours worth of solid-state batteries today without using any rare materials.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

January 7th, 20262026-01-06T20:38:28+13:00

January 6th, 2026

HOT TOPIC

// Volkswagen debuts next-generation interior inside ID.Polo

Volkswagen has given the world a glimpse of its next-generation interior, showing off the inside of the all-new ID.Polo.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// Tesla cedes EV crown to BYD after sales drop

Tesla has lost its position as the world’s largest electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer to Chinese automotive giant BYD, after reporting an 8% decline in annual sales for 2025.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Addition to MITO’s team

Daniel Boyd has joined MITO as group manager of qualifications after being operations manager at the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association (LVVTA) for almost two years.

// Mega-ministry risks stalling transport and vehicle policy, VIA says

Plans to merge housing, transport, environment and parts of local government into a single “mega-ministry” risk slowing delivery and undermining specialist policy work,

// Australia to host record 67 car brands in 2026

Australia will have 67 brands selling vehicles in 2026, rising to 75 brands by 2031, making it one of the world’s most competitive automotive markets according to new data released by the Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA).

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS\

// Convoy – electric semi brand SANY pairs autonomy with human experience

Instead of betting the farm on fully self-driving trucks from the jump, Chinese equipment and heavy truck brand SANY is putting a seasoned driver in a lead vehicle with as many as four autonomous heavy trucks programmed to follow his lead.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

January 6th, 20262026-01-05T21:08:17+13:00

January 5th, 2026

STATS WEEK

// Ranger rules commercial sector

Blue oval takes out model and marque honours in 2025 with Toyota Hilux its closest rival.

// 2025 Market Wrap: RAV4 topples Ranger as utes lose their grip

The final registration figures for 2025 are in, revealing a market in recovery and a significant shift in Kiwi buying habits.

// Used Imports: 2025 sees slowdown as Toyota dominance continues

The used import market faced a challenging year in 2025, with total registrations dipping across both passenger and commercial segments.

// Lexus NZ clocks another record year in a ‘tough market’

Lexus New Zealand has wrapped up 2025 with its strongest result yet, delivering 1453 vehicles and locking in its position as the country’s second-largest luxury automotive brand.

// December: A solid finish to a rollercoaster year

The year has signed off with a steady month of trade, with 15,728 new vehicles hitting the road in December.

// RAV4 nation’s best-seller

Toyota model claims crown as new-vehicle sales rebound by 12.3 per cent from the previous year.

// Used sector shrinks further

Toyota dominates annual ladders for marques and models as number of overall registrations tumbles.

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

IN OTHER NEWS

// Ram TRX returns with 777hp, NZ local launch ‘under serious consideration’

While Ram had already confirmed the return of the 5.7-litre HEMI V8 to the standard 1500 lineup, the brand has today dropped the hammer by revealing the return of the flagship TRX for the 2027 model year.

// Jaecoo J5 EV confirmed: A new price leader?

While the official Kiwi sticker price is being kept under wraps until launch, the J5 has just launched in the Australian market with a sharp driveaway price of $36,990 AUD.

// Major makeover for ALICE

AdTorque Edge relaunches marketing “oracle” to boost dealerships’ leads and sales.

// Thousands of truckies avoiding checks at safety centres

Thousands of truckies are avoiding compliance checks at safety centres by failing to pull in for a check despite signs advising them they have to.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Success! High-speed wireless charging gets real at Purdue University

For the first time in the US, a battery-electric semi truck has successfully been charged at highway speeds, and without wires thanks to a new, patent-pending system designed by a team of Purdue University engineers with support from Cummins.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

January 5th, 20262026-01-04T19:37:26+13:00

December 19th, 2025

BEST OF TODAY

// Timing key for safety mandates

Industry association warns of potential supply and price impacts for used importers over ADAS entry compliance plans.

// Colonial predicts profit boost

Chairman says recent trading results have continued a “positive trend” for the business.

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Dealer-to-Dealer Trading. Simplified.

Connect directly with nearly 1,500 licensed motor dealers nationwide and trade with total transparency, speed, and confidence.

Whether you’re turning over aged stock or sourcing fresh inventory, with three live dealer auctions every week, you can buy and sell stock in real time without the delays or guesswork of traditional wholesale channels.

Every listing includes clear photos, verified details, and fair market pricing — ensuring smooth, trustworthy transactions between dealers who know the business.

ONE LINERS

CHRISTMAS 2025

// Merry Christmas everyone

The Full Brief will take a break for 2 weeks from Friday 19th December. Coming back Monday 5th January.

I hope you have some sort of break over the holiday period. Catch you in the New Year!

Dan

December 19th, 20252025-12-18T19:16:54+13:00

December 18th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// New Kia Stonic to land in New Zealand at $27,990

Kia has announced New Zealand pricing for the facelifted Stonic, which will start from $27,990 when it lands next year.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New ministry to handle transport

Coalition promises better outcomes as it announces mega-agency will unite existing departments.

// More on this

HOT TOPIC

// Avanti Finance appoints Waikato and Bay of Plenty auto manager

Avanti Finance has appointed Jessie Hutchins as Auto Relationship Manager for the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota RAV4 for New Zealand will go live with connected services – but at a cost

Toyota New Zealand will finally have connected-vehicle capabilities with the 6th-generation RAV4 when it arrives in early 2026.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Dealer-to-Dealer Trading. Simplified.

Connect directly with nearly 1,500 licensed motor dealers nationwide and trade with total transparency, speed, and confidence.

Whether you’re turning over aged stock or sourcing fresh inventory, with three live dealer auctions every week, you can buy and sell stock in real time without the delays or guesswork of traditional wholesale channels.

Every listing includes clear photos, verified details, and fair market pricing — ensuring smooth, trustworthy transactions between dealers who know the business.

BEST OF THE REST

// EU backtracks on 100% 2035 ICE ban

The European Union has formally softened its proposed 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles, clearing the way for internal combustion engine (ICE) cars and hybrids to continue beyond the original deadline.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Kinetic unveils NZ’s first lightweight electric double-decker bus

Kinetic New Zealand has unveiled the country’s first lightweight electric double-decker bus, developed in partnership with global automotive group Geely.

// Ford pivots from big EVs to hybrids and smaller electric models

Ford has confirmed a major reset of its global electrification strategy, shifting away from large battery electric vehicles in favour of hybrids, plug-in hybrids and a new generation of petrol-powered trucks.

// Geely NZ considering EX2 electric hatch for 2026 launch

Geely New Zealand is assessing whether to add the EX2 electric hatchback to its local line-up in 2026, as competition heats up in the affordable small-EV segment.

CHRISTMAS 2025

// Merry Christmas everyone

The Full Brief will take a break for 2 weeks from Friday 19th December. Coming back Monday 5th January.

I hope you have some sort of break over the holiday period. Catch you in the New Year!

Dan

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 18th, 20252025-12-17T23:47:53+13:00
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