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So far Dan Angland has created 1394 blog entries.

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

December 17th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// The next Ford F-150 Lightning will be a range extender hybrid

Ford has confirmed a major evolution of the F-150 Lightning, saying the next version will be an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV).

// 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

// Volkswagen reveals details of upcoming all-electric ID. Polo

Volkswagen has revealed details of the upcoming all-electric ID. Polo hatch, which is set to be revealed in full early 2026.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Group celebrates leaders

Eagers Automotive holds special function to announce winners of its annual awards.

// FleetPartners secures fourth consecutive Toitū net carbon zero certification

FleetPartners has achieved its fourth consecutive year of Toitū net carbon zero certification in New Zealand, marking continued progress in reducing emissions across its corporate operations.

// Vehicle spending on the rise

Latest retail card figures show consumers splurged nearly $200m on motor vehicles in November.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// From HyHaul To China: Why Hydrogen Transport Keeps Losing

HyHaul was supposed to be a proof point. It was framed as the UK’s first serious hydrogen freight corridor, backed by public money, supported by major industrial partners, and aligned with national decarbonization narratives.

ONE LINERS

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 17th, 20252025-12-16T16:28:37+13:00

December 16th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Leading through change

MITO Limited names Verna Niao as chief executive as shift to industry-owned entity approaches.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// MTA calls for reconsideration of proposed WOF changes

MTA Chief Executive Lee Marshall says Government calculations overlook some key factors.

// 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

// Sporty SUV unleashed

TGR range extended by Corolla Cross GR Sport that comes with unique mode.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Eagers Automotive marks 2025 leadership programme graduates

Eagers Automotive New Zealand has celebrated the 2025 graduates of its Emerging and Advanced Leaders Programme at an end-of-year ceremony held at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.

// Rental sector reports rebound

Visitors from many overseas markets are returning in greater numbers.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// 2025 Was Big For Hybrids And PHEVs. 2026 Will Be Even Bigger

EV sales are growing worldwide—just unevenly. Now, more and more buyers are turning to hybrid power, and carmakers are responding.

ONE LINERS

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 16th, 20252025-12-15T16:20:51+13:00

December 15th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Advocacy delivers ‘huge win’

Industry association hails decision after MITO stakeholders were “united, consistent and spoke with a single voice”.

// 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

// Tourism Holdings to consolidate RV production in NZ

Tourism Holdings Limited will close its RV manufacturing factory in Brisbane later this month and transition all production to Action Manufacturing in Hamilton, following a comprehensive review of its Australasian operations.

IN OTHER NEWS

// KGM Torres Hybrid lands in NZ with special introductory pricing

KGM has launched its first hybrid SUV in New Zealand, with the Torres Hybrid now available through local dealerships from $49,990 plus on-roads.

// Nissan partners with Wayve to bring next-generation AI driver assistance

Nissan has signed definitive agreements with UK autonomous-driving company Wayve to integrate advanced AI-powered driver-assistance technology into a wide range of future Nissan models.

// GWM confirms Tank 300 plug-in hybrid for NZ in early 2026

GWM has confirmed the Tank 300 Hi4-T plug-in hybrid will arrive in New Zealand in the first quarter of 2026, expanding the brand’s growing range of electrified off-road models.

// Royal Enfield finds home with New Zealand’s oldest motorcycle dealership

Royal Enfield New Zealand has appointed McIver & Veitch, New Zealand’s oldest motorcycle dealership, as an official Royal Enfield dealer for Dunedin.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// BMW May Finally Do What Auto Industry Has Needed For Decades

BMW has filed an international patent focused on identifying if a person has had too much to drink and shouldn’t be driving, and then won’t let them drive if that’s the case.

ONE LINERS

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 15th, 20252025-12-14T21:16:32+13:00

December 12th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// New Kia Seltos unveiled with bold new looks and hybrid power

Kia has unveiled the second-generation Seltos, which sits on a newer platform, is bigger, and finally gives buyers the option of hybrid power.

// More on this 

// Automotive training ‘moves forward’

Government approves MITO’s return to industry ownership amid overhaul of work-based learning.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// UCOL automotive students snapped up by employers before finishing course

Four UCOL automotive engineering students have secured jobs before completing their studies, reflecting strong demand for skilled trainees across the motoring and heavy-vehicle sectors.

IN OTHER NEWS

// GAC Aion V, Denza B5 among five-star ANCAP rating recipients

The GAC Aion V, Denza B5, Hyundai Palisade, and the new Toyota Hilux have all received five-star ANCAP safety ratings.

// Call for permanent CCS split

Industry association urges government to introduce separate systems for used and new imports.

// Auto Trader and NZ Autocar form partnership

Auto Trader and NZ Autocar have formed a strategic partnership to integrate their online editorial operations, marking the latest collaboration in New Zealand’s evolving automotive media landscape as brands seek greater scale and reach.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Hyundai’s small new EV has a wild aero hatch design and ducktail spoiler [Image]

The IONIQ 3 is set to arrive as a smaller sibling to the IONIQ 5, but it will look a little different from other Hyundai EVs.

ONE LINERS

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 12th, 20252025-12-11T20:52:51+13:00

December 11th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// GWM Tank 300 plug-in hybrid coming to NZ

GWM has confirmed that its expanding hybrid off-road line-up will grow again in 2026, with the Tank 300 Hi4-T plug-in hybrid locked in for New Zealand.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Ford partners with Renault to build new EVs

Renault Group and Ford have confirmed a major strategic partnership that will see the two manufacturers co-develop a pair of Ford-branded electric vehicles for Europe, marking a significant reset in Ford’s EV strategy as it works to regain market share in the region.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota Hilux engineers in New Zealand: behind ‘cyber sumo’ and why diesel must remain

Two of the engineers behind the new Toyota Hilux visited New Zealand this week, to drive their creation in the South Island.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// Ute set for class exemption

Ford Ranger model has towing connection that meets Australian safety standards but not New Zealand’s.

// TR Group highlights major progress in EV and hydrogen fleet in latest FY25 ESG report

TR Group is expanding its low- and zero-emission fleet across New Zealand and Australia as outlined in its FY25 ESG Report, adding more battery-electric trucks, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles and hybrid technology while advancing several decarbonisation trials across its rental and lease fleet.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Public needs protecting from indebted luxury car dealer, judge rules

Beacham European purchased late model vehicles such as Jaguar, Aston Martin and Bentley, refurbished them, then sold them from its showroom, which until recently was on Great South Rd.

// Govt planning overhaul aims to accelerate renewable energy projects

Energy minister Simon Watts says the Government’s overhaul of New Zealand’s planning system will make it faster and cheaper to develop renewable energy projects, backed by new transition measures to give councils and consent holders certainty as the Resource Management Act is replaced.

// All-new Audi Q3 preview in New Zealand: step to the left

Audi New Zealand is previewing the next-generation Q3 compact-SUV for prospective customers from now until March 2026, when the first Kiwi-specification production cars are set to arrive.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// This Silicon Anode Breakthrough Could Mark A Turning Point For EV Batteries

This is the battery technology that could revolutionize your next EV.

ONE LINERS

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 11th, 20252025-12-10T22:02:03+13:00

December 10th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Denza confirms New Zealand pricing for B5 and B8 super-hybrid SUVs

Denza has confirmed New Zealand pricing for its first local models, announcing the B5 and B8 super-hybrid SUVs as the brand prepares to enter the market.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Subaru BRZ Kiiro manual for New Zealand: bright newcomer for summer

Subaru of New Zealand is back doing the thing that it’s done so well in the past: importing small runs of niche models and creating a bit of buzz with a couple of specific flourishes.

// More on this

HOT TOPIC

// Digital fleet and fuel solution

Finance Now working with Visa, Pismo and The Online Fuel Company on fleet first for NZ.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// Ford announces dealer network leadership changes

Ford New Zealand has announced significant leadership transitions within its dealership network, with two long-serving Dealer Principals set to retire in 2026 and a new appointment taking effect in January.

// Updated vehicle ratings online

The overall safety of the light fleet on Rightcar has improved by more than 50 per cent.

IN OTHER NEWS

// MG QS earns 5-star ANCAP rating

MG’s new QS seven-seat SUV has picked up a five-star ANCAP safety rating, with MG Motor New Zealand framing it as a fresh proof point for its “safety, innovation and value” pitch in the large-SUV space.

// Model ‘pushes boundaries’

New vehicle from MG Motor with first-generation IM digital chassis ready to order at dealerships.

// Write-offs likely at auctions

Industry association says border and compliance inspections should spot any cars damaged by quake.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// LG Just Landed A Billion-Dollar EV Battery Order From Mercedes-Benz

Korea’s LG Energy Solution will supply high-voltage batteries for the German automaker’s future EVs.

ONE LINERS

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 10th, 20252025-12-09T19:29:12+13:00

December 9th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Skoda Elroq compact-SUV launched in New Zealand: sustainable sauce

Skoda New Zealand has launched its first pure-electric compact-SUV, the Elroq. It not only brings the brand into a new segment, it also showcases its latest design language, called “Modern Solid”.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// Preview: all-new Audi Q3 lands in NZ ahead of 2026 launch

Set to arrive in showrooms from March next year, Audi New Zealand has given local media a preview of the new Q3 SUV.

// Economy shows early signs of recovery – ASB

New Zealand’s economy is beginning to turn a corner, with spending lifting and interest-rate cuts starting to flow through household budgets, according to ASB’s latest Economic Forecast Update.

IN OTHER NEWS

// MTF Finance re-appoints independent director Templeton

MTF Finance has confirmed the re-appointment of independent director Melanie Templeton for a further term, as the New Zealand-owned lender continues its business transformation programme following another strong year of performance.

// Subaru Forester crowned Japan Car of the Year, edging Prelude

Subaru’s new Forester has won Japan’s most ‘prestigious motoring prize’, edging Honda’s revived Prelude in a closely fought Japan Car of the Year (JCOTY) vote for 2025–26.

// Independent tests show EV range claims overstated

Australia’s peak motoring body says independent testing of four new electric vehicles (EVs) has found their real-world driving range to be between 3% and 31% shorter than advertised to consumers.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// This Breakthrough EV Motor Makes 1,000 Horsepower—And Fits Inside A Wheel

In-wheel motors for electric cars have never really caught on, despite several companies working hard to make them a reality.

ONE LINERS

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 9th, 20252025-12-08T16:17:10+13:00

December 8th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// BYD testing smaller ‘Baby Shark’ ute in South America

BYD appears set to expand its ute line-up with a second, smaller model spotted testing in South America, positioned beneath the Shark 6 and aimed at the region’s compact pickup segment.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota’s V8-powered GR GT revealed with a Kiwi connection

Toyota has finally taken the covers off the highly anticipated GR GT, which serves as the spiritual successor to the Lexus LFA.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// The BYD Shark 6 is the best new vehicle of the year: DRIVEN Car Guide 2025 NZ Car of the Year

The BYD Shark 6 is the Overall Winner in the DRIVEN Car Guide 2025 New Zealand Car of the Year awards.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// Group expands used operations

Newmarket dealership fourth of its kind as Armstrong’s increases its retail footprint across the country.

// Vehicle retailing drives growth

Automotive sector biggest climber in dollar terms for sales volumes and values during three-month spell.

// Import levels fluctuate

Used car volumes up from prior month but down on a year ago, with results reversed for new sector.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Fuel tanker driver dies after crashing into BYD dealership in Lower Hutt

Police say the single-vehicle crash was reported about 5.30am. A police spokesperson confirmed one person died and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are continuing.

// Rising demand at auctions

Sales through Collecting Cars platform are up 44 per cent from same time a year ago.

// Škoda NZ launches Elroq and refreshed Enyaq

Škoda New Zealand is introducing two new additions to its electric portfolio with the launch of the all-new Elroq and an updated Enyaq, both adopting the brand’s Modern Solid design language and upgraded technology.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Kia EV2 sheds camo, giving us our best look at the new SUV

Kia’s most affordable electric SUV will be here in just over a month. Ahead of its debut, the EV2 was spotted with light camo, offering our best look yet.

ONE LINERS

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 8th, 20252025-12-07T09:39:37+13:00

December 5th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// MG QS earns 5-star ANCAP rating

MG’s first seven-seat SUV for New Zealand, the new MG QS, has scored a full 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

// 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

STATS WEEK

// Market rebuilding ‘slowly’

Uplift in new-vehicle sales “reflects steadying conditions rather than renewed expansion”.

// Dealer numbers dip

Size of register has fallen in seven of the past eight months and has 238 fewer traders than a year ago.

BEST OF THE REST

// Kia teases electric grand tourer. Is it a new Stinger?

Kia appears to be gearing up for the reveal of a new electric grand tourer concept, with fresh teaser images hinting at what many believe will be the long-rumoured successor to the Stinger.

// Progress on RUC charges

Government issues request for information from businesses on how to simplify system.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Toyota NZ renews Olympic and Paralympic partnership

Toyota New Zealand has renewed its partnership with the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) and Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ), extending its support for another four-year cycle.

// Toyota set to steal NZ sales title from mighty Ford Ranger

With just one month left in 2025, the Ford Ranger’s decade-long streak as New Zealand’s best-selling new vehicle looks set to come to a close.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Car Crashes Are A Public Health Crisis. Autonomous Cars Are The Cure.

Every year, nearly 40,000 Americans are killed in motor vehicle accidents. There are about 6 million collisions involving motor vehicles every year — about 16,500 per day

ONE LINERS

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 5th, 20252025-12-04T16:41:46+13:00
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