NZ Automotive Industry News

HOT TOPIC

// ChargeNet secures $37.7m government loan for nationwide EV charging expansion

ChargeNet has been awarded $37.7 million from the Government’s Public EV Charging Infrastructure Loans programme to fund the rollout of

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// More on this

• Autofile says $112m boost for charging network
• Driven Car Guide says Government gives EVs a push with funding for more than 2500 new charge stations in NZ: build them and they will come?

HOT TOPIC

// Willis says NZ holds weeks of fuel supply

Finance Minister Nicola Willis says New Zealand has around seven weeks of fuel supply available, as the Government prepares for

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// More on this

• AutoTalk says AA warns against fuel stockpiling
• AutoTrader says Government moves to widen its fuel supply options

HOT TOPIC

// BYD New Zealand secures “significant” electric vehicle supply, caps wait times

BYD New Zealand has reportedly secured a “major supply surge” of vehicles, intending to “cut Kiwi wait times.”

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says BYD New Zealand secures increased EV supply to address fuel price volatility

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Dealer-to-Dealer Trading. Reimagined.

Connect instantly with over 1,500 licensed motor dealers nationwide and trade with clarity, speed, and complete confidence.

Whether you’re moving aging stock or hunting down fresh inventory, our live weekly dealer auctions let you buy and sell in real time, without the delays, uncertainty, or friction of traditional wholesale channels.

Every vehicle is presented with high-quality images, verified information, and market-driven pricing, creating fast, transparent, and trustworthy transactions between professionals who speak the same language.

• Trade smarter. Move faster. Stay ahead

BEST OF THE REST

// Cupra Formentor VZ5 – more cylinders and a higher price tag

Cupra NZ has confirmed the Formentor VZ5 will soon arrive in New Zealand, marking the first time the flagship has been produced in right-hand drive.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

IN OTHER NEWS

// Evnex chief criticises Govt’s EV charging plan

Ed Harvey has criticised the Government’s newly announced $50 million public EV charging

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// JAC Motors backs testicular cancer campaign with ute giveaway

Medical advisor Dr Jim Duthie and campaign ambassador Sir Buck Shelford.

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// BMW M Snow & Ice Experience returns in 2026

BMW will bring back its M Snow & Ice Experience for 2026,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// ‘Fuel-efficient’ options

Suzuki says its reputation for offering fuel-efficient options is being highlighted during the cost-of-petrol crisis.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Car imports steady in south

The number of cars handled by Lyttelton Port Company came in at 17,392 for the final six months of 2025, which was up 0.4 per cent from 17,319 units in the corresponding period a year earlier.

• Read this article on Autofile

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// Your customers want Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

It’s the ultimate upgrade to have iPhone/Android features seamlessly integrated into your car. Our replacement multimedia units install easily with quality surrounds for a factory look.

Buy Online with Nationwide Shipping and install support. Give your vehicles an unfair advantage.

• View all Apple CarPlay & Android Auto replacement units

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Fast flop: stupid fast Audi RS e-tron GT gets over $50,000 in discounts

The Audi RS e-tron GT set speed records, but it didn’t set sales records. Now you can now buy one with more than $50,000 in discounts!

• Read this article on Electrek

ONE LINERS

• Porsche files patent for automatic shifter that feels like a manual
• Rolls-Royce rolls back EV-only strategy, pushes on with V12 manufacturing
• Skoda lifts the lid on hidden concepts with new museum depository
• Skoda’s first car needed a full workout just to start

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HOT TOPIC

// Kia NZ introduces ‘New Zealand’s best EV ownership offer’

Kia New Zealand is offering up to three years worth of seriously reduced cost motoring for EV buyers, with ORCs, RUCs and servicing all covered by the company.

• Read this article on Driven Car Guide

// More on this

• Autofile says Three years of ‘free motoring’

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota’s new RAV4 touches down in New Zealand

Toyota’s highly anticipated sixth-generation RAV4 SUV has arrived in New Zealand dealerships. Images of the SUV have been posted to various Toyota

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// More on this

• Stuff says New Toyota RAV4 arrives in dealerships

HOT TOPIC

// ‘Worst-case scenario’

The government is looking at how it could prioritise access to fuel as the Middle East conflict limits global supply and pushes prices at the pump even higher.

• Read this article on Autofile

// More on this

• AutoTalk says Transporting NZ urges vigilance amid fuel crisis

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Dealer-to-Dealer Trading. Reimagined.

Connect instantly with over 1,500 licensed motor dealers nationwide and trade with clarity, speed, and complete confidence.

Whether you’re moving aging stock or hunting down fresh inventory, our live weekly dealer auctions let you buy and sell in real time, without the delays, uncertainty, or friction of traditional wholesale channels.

Every vehicle is presented with high-quality images, verified information, and market-driven pricing, creating fast, transparent, and trustworthy transactions between professionals who speak the same language.

• Trade smarter. Move faster. Stay ahead

BEST OF THE REST

// Foodstuffs adds electric heavy truck to chilled freight fleet

Foodstuffs North Island is adding a new electric truck to its supply chain fleet,

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

IN OTHER NEWS

// Toyota fest returns to Hampton Downs next weekend

Toyota fans will converge on Hampton Downs Motorsport Park next weekend, as the annual Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival returns

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// Deadlines for T-Tech 2026

Two deadlines are fast approaching for people wanting to attend and speak at T-Tech 2026.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Watchdog flags fuel-merger issues

The Commerce Commission has raised concerns about potential competition issues over a bid by Astra Energy Group Limited to acquire all the shares in the parent companies of fuel companies Gull and NPD.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Ultra-rare Subaru Impreza STI 22B emerges for sale in New Zealand

An immaculate example of a Subaru Impreza STI 22B has emerged for sale in New Zealand, with less than 15,000km on the clock.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// More Kiwis searching for electric vehicles amid petrol price hikes

As petrol prices continue to rise around the world as a knock-on effect of the war in Iran, it seems more New Zealanders are turning to electric vehicles.

• Read this article on Stuff

SPONSORED BY OEM AUDIO

// Your customers want Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

It’s the ultimate upgrade to have iPhone/Android features seamlessly integrated into your car. Our replacement multimedia units install easily with quality surrounds for a factory look.

Buy Online with Nationwide Shipping and install support. Give your vehicles an unfair advantage.

• View all Apple CarPlay & Android Auto replacement units

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Auto(nomous)bots, roll(er) out! The $1.75 BILLION future of self driving asphalt

Self driving construction tech startup Bedrock Robotics has just closed on a $270 million Series B funding round that puts it at $1.75B!

• Read this article on Electrek

ONE LINERS

• AusEV parent company BossCap enters receivership
• Volkswagen previews ID. Cross electric SUV ahead of launch
• Audi confirms electric sports car
• Honda scraps EV models, flags multi-billion dollar hit
• BMW Group holds steady despite tariff headwinds
• Lamborghini EV on hold for now while hardcore models are incoming
• BMW’s new EV could be its most important model yet
• Bentley stays profitable despite dip in deliveries, ramps up EV investment
• Bentley turns up the volume with ‘Virtuoso Collection’ and next-level Naim audio

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HOT TOPIC

// 900km of range! BMW pulls covers off impressive new i3

BMW has revived the i3 badge for its new electric 3 Series sedan, which the German manufacturer says will deliver up to 900km of driving range.

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says All-new BMW i3 revealed with 900km range and Neue Klasse tech

HOT TOPIC

// Mercedes-Benz NZ appoints new GM

Mercedes-Benz New Zealand has appointed Helen Sunley as its new general manager.

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// More on this

• Autofile says New NZ boss for luxury brand

HOT TOPIC

// Summer trade boosts Turners

Based on current trading conditions, Turners expects net profit before tax and before goodwill adjustments to be about $63 million.

• Read this article on Autofile

// More on this

• AutoTalk says Turners upgrades earnings guidance

HOT TOPIC

// Ford celebrates rural games milestone with record attendance

Ford New Zealand marked seven years of primary sponsorship of the Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Games with record attendance

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// More on this

• Autofile says Marque’s support for grassroots

SPONSORED BY CARJAM

// Dealers are taking a closer look at vehicle data

As margins tighten and compliance requirements increase, many dealers are reassessing how they source vehicle information. Speed, reliability and cost certainty are becoming key factors. CarJam provides vehicle data used by dealers nationwide, with transparent pricing and no lock-ins.

• Read how CarJam works for NZ dealers

IN OTHER NEWS

EX90’s late arrival may prove positive for Volvo NZ

The Volvo EX90’s delayed arrival into New Zealand may prove fruitful for the brand as the market’s appetite for fully electric options looks to be on the increase.

• Read this article on AutoTalk

Keeping an eye on the dollars and sense: AutoTalk Live adds heavyweight economic firepower

AutoTalk Live has added ASB Bank chief economist Nick Tuffley and UDC’s Nick Proctor to its May 5 programme

• Read this article on AutoTalk

Fuel stocks remain healthy as Government steps up monitoring

New Zealand continues to hold healthy fuel stock levels, with no need for restrictions, Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Associate

• Read this article on AutoTalk

Auckland dealership triumphant

East Auckland BMW has been named the marque’s dealer of the year

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

New EV fee proposals charge owners 2-3x what gas drivers pay in federal tax

Flat EV fees of $200-$250 charge owners 2-3x the federal gas tax average. With EVs at only 10% of sales, the US should encourage adoption, not punish it.

• Read this article on Electrek

ONE LINERS

• Carsales becomes first Australian auto marketplace in ChatGPT
• Audi’s new electric sports car will enter production next year
• Liberty Walk unveils wild body kit for Honda Civic Type R
• Mercedes 190 E Evo II revisited: the wild DTM hero that made the 190 a legend
• Electric ferry maker Candela raises €30M funding round

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HOT TOPIC

// Audi A2 nameplate to return as electric hatchback

Audi will revive the A2 nameplate as the German carmaker looks set to dip into the affordable end of the electric vehicle (EV) market, confirming a new compact electric model – the A2 e-tron – will debut globally in late 2026.

• Read this article on Stuff

// More on this

• EVs and Beyond says Audi confirms A2 e-tron as entry-level EV

HOT TOPIC

// Trade Me reports spike in EV searches

Rising petrol prices are driving renewed interest in electric vehicles, with new data from Trade Me showing a sharp spike

• Read this article on EVs and Beyond

// More on this

• Autofile says Boom in electric searches

SPONSORED BY CARJAM

// Dealers are taking a closer look at vehicle data

As margins tighten and compliance requirements increase, many dealers are reassessing how they source vehicle information. Speed, reliability and cost certainty are becoming key factors. CarJam provides vehicle data used by dealers nationwide, with transparent pricing and no lock-ins.

• Read how CarJam works for NZ dealers

BEST OF THE REST

// Nissan electric Leaf shelved indefinitely for NZ amid rocky EV market

Nissan New Zealand’s local line-up is in the midst of a considerable makeover, with multiple nameplates either departing the range or being put on ice.

• Read this article on Stuff

IN OTHER NEWS

// BMW Group New Zealand honours top dealers after record year

BMW Group New Zealand has recognised its top-performing dealers at an awards ceremony held at the New Zealand International Convention

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// EV drivers save up to $35,000 in fuel over vehicle lifetime – Evnex

Evnex chief executive Ed Harvey New data from EV charger manufacturer Evnex suggests New Zealand electric vehicle drivers could save

• Read this article on EVs and Beyond

// NZ high on Volvo EX60 global launch timing list thanks to our love of luxury EVs

New Zealand will be one of the first right-hand drive markets to get the Volvo EX60, thanks to our country’s enthusiasm for EVs in its market segment.

• Read this article on Driven Car Guide

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Toyota sells this EV in China for $15,000, using nearly 90% local parts

Toyota may deny it, but it’s increasingly relying on local parts to compete in China’s brutal electric vehicle market.

• Read this article on Electrek

ONE LINERS

• Goliath 700 ZR2 another Hennessey weapon of mass displacement
• Mercedes reportedly eyes Geely tech for next-gen EVs
• Volkswagen ID.Cross previewed ahead of 2026 launch

OTHER STUFF

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HOT TOPIC

// It’s done: Nissan confirms Pathfinder’s demise in New Zealand

Nissan has confirmed the Pathfinder will no longer be available in New Zealand once current dealer stocks run dry.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says Nissan NZ says goodbye to Pathfinder, Juke. Hello to Frontier?

HOT TOPIC

// Car transactions drop

Spending on motor vehicles using electronic cards dropped by $900,000, or 0.5 per cent, last month when compared to January 2026.

• Read this article on Autofile

// More on this

• AutoTalk says Vehicle and fuel spending down in February

SPONSORED BY CARJAM

// Dealers are taking a closer look at vehicle data

As margins tighten and compliance requirements increase, many dealers are reassessing how they source vehicle information. Speed, reliability and cost certainty are becoming key factors. CarJam provides vehicle data used by dealers nationwide, with transparent pricing and no lock-ins.

• Read how CarJam works for NZ dealers

BEST OF THE REST

// Video: Appliance maker Dreame pitches NZ automotive launch for 2027

Home appliance manufacturer Dreame Technology is planning to enter the New Zealand and Australian new vehicle markets

• Read this article on AutoTalk

IN OTHER NEWS

// Nissan hints at upcoming hybrid ute for New Zealand

Nissan has hinted at a hybrid-powered Navara landing in New Zealand, courtesy of the brand’s joint venture with Dongfeng. This was revealed to NZ

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// Mercedes-Benz Auckland to host classics and collectables open day

Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and families will have the chance to explore classic and modern vehicles at a special open day in

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Fuel-duty cut off cards

The government says any relief for cost-of-living pressures caused by the war in Iran would need to be targeted and temporary.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Mechanics put on migrant pathway

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced further details on changes to the skilled migrant category,

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// The Volvo EX30 Joins America’s Growing EV Graveyard

Once hailed as a charming, cheaper electric Volvo for Americans, the Volvo EX30 is dead for the U.S. market.

• Read this article on InsideEVs

ONE LINERS

• Recalls for luxury cars
• BMW’s joke race wagon is real: M3 Touring 24H heading to Nurburgring
• Volkswagen previews ID. Cross electric SUV ahead of launch
• Twisted unveils ultra-exclusive Range Rover Classic restomod

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HOT TOPIC

// Major solar array to power Toyota NZ logistics hub

Surplus energy will support local power needs. The panels are set to last up to 30 years with payback expected in just over five years.

• Read this article on EVs and Beyond

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says Toyota NZ now has one of the biggest rooftop solar systems in the country

SPONSORED BY CARJAM

// Dealers are taking a closer look at vehicle data

As margins tighten and compliance requirements increase, many dealers are reassessing how they source vehicle information. Speed, reliability and cost certainty are becoming key factors. CarJam provides vehicle data used by dealers nationwide, with transparent pricing and no lock-ins.

• Read how CarJam works for NZ dealers

BEST OF THE REST

// Ford Escape hybrid and PHEV SUV discontinued in New Zealand

Ford Escape hybrid and plug-in hybrid models have been quietly discontinued from Ford New Zealand’s local lineup.

• Read this article on Stuff

// Amarok adds a cheaper V6 variant to the NZ line up

The Volkswagen Amarok line, which is now powered by the V6 alone, has a new entry point model. The Amarok Style V6 is limited in supply however.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

IN OTHER NEWS

// Watch: Mitsubishi revisits Porirua factory past

Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand has shared a glimpse into its manufacturing past, posting a 1980s staff induction video.

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// BYD NZ reports sales surge as fuel prices climb and brand earns Consumer NZ recognition

BYD NZ has reported a sudden strong demand for electric vehicles with the brand stating it sold 80 vehicles on Saturday just gone.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// New migrant pathway confirmed for automotive workers

A new immigration pathway set to take effect in August 2026 will create a residence route for more workers.

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Porsche models top bidding

Collecting Cars is celebrating another month of record auction sales across New Zealand and Australia after 115 lots sold for more than A$10.3 million (about NZ$12.5m) in February.

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// BMW’s flagship i7 EV is getting a Neue Klasse upgrade: Here’s our first look

With its official debut just a few weeks away, BMW offered a sneak peek at the new 2027 7 Series.

• Read this article on Electrek

ONE LINERS

• Patent filings hint at Toyota plug-in hybrid ute plans
• The MG ZS now comes with a five star safety rating

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HOT TOPIC

// Tesla Model Y L stretches to six seats from $83,900

Tesla has announced the first-ever Model Y L, a longer six-seat variant of its best-selling electric SUV, available for order

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// More on this

• Stuff says NZ pricing confirmed for Tesla Model Y L 6-seater

HOT TOPIC

// Honda scraps flagship EVs just months before launch

Honda has announced the cancellation of its radical new EVs just moths before they were set to launch.

• Read this article on Driven Car Guide

// More on this

• EVs & Beyond says Honda scraps 0 Series EV models
• Stuff says Honda cancels radical 0 Series EVs just months before launch

HOT TOPIC

// ComCom steps up monitoring of petrol prices

The Commerce Commission says it is increasing scrutiny of petrol pump prices as global wholesale fuel costs become more volatile.

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// More on this

• Autofile says ComCom issues fuel warning

HOT TOPIC

// GWM Tank 300 plug-in conquers Beer O’Clock Hill off-road challenge in OZ

GWM is celebrating the fact that five different models from its line up have made it up one of Australia’s toughest off-road climbs.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says GMW conquers Beer O’Clock hill for the fifth time

SPONSORED BY CARJAM

// Dealers are taking a closer look at vehicle data

As margins tighten and compliance requirements increase, many dealers are reassessing how they source vehicle information. Speed, reliability and cost certainty are becoming key factors. CarJam provides vehicle data used by dealers nationwide, with transparent pricing and no lock-ins.

• Read how CarJam works for NZ dealers

BEST OF THE REST

// Fuel crisis sends buyers wild for EVs

Warren Willmot with new EV buyer Natalie New Zealand’s fuel shortage has triggered a buying frenzy at electric vehicle dealerships,

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// Ministerial group formed to oversee fuel security as Iran conflict escalates

The Government has established a new ministerial group to oversee fuel security and supply chain risks as tensions in the

• Read this article on AutoTalk

IN OTHER NEWS

// Auckland Central Kia earns global recognition

Auckland Central Kia has been recognised as one of the world’s top-performing Kia dealerships after receiving the Platinum Prestige Dealer

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Report questions pace of EV charger rollout

Transport officials have warned New Zealand may struggle to meet the Government’s target of 10,000 public EV chargers by 2030

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// Kia NZ issues recall for EV3, EV4, EV5 and EV6 models

Kia New Zealand has issued a recall for a number of its electric models, citing an issue with the digital

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// BMW iX3 priced at $125,900 for NZ launch

BMW will launch the all-new iX3 electric SUV in New Zealand at midyear with a price of $125,900, marking

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// Mitsubishi NZ staff induction video is a glimpse of work life in the 80s

Remember when we used to assemble cars in NZ? No, well it was a thriving industry, and a big employer.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// Volkswagen confirms Golf GTI 50th anniversary edition for New Zealand

Volkswagen New Zealand has confirmed an allocation of the Golf GTI 50th anniversary edition for local customers.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Google Maps Is Getting

The new “Immersive Navigation” mode is billed as the most significant update to driving directions in Maps in over a decade.

• Read this article on InsideEVs

ONE LINERS

• Ferrari Amalfi Spider unveiled with 470kW V8 and no roof
• Wayve, Uber and Nissan team up on robotaxi pilot
• Australian car buyers taking months longer to purchase
• Collecting Cars reports record February sales
• Renault plots 26-model push as Bridger concept leads global growth charge
• Porsche hits reset: “Leaner, faster and even more desirable” plan unveiled

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HOT TOPIC

// Marque accused of misleading campaign

A complaint about Mazda Motors of New Zealand’s promotional material for a tree-planting programme has been filed with the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) by Lawyers for Climate Action NZ.

• Read this article on Autofile

// More on this

• Autotalk says Mazda tree-planting claims challenged in ASA complaint

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// Faster vehicle reports. Less admin. Fewer mistakes.

There are good reasons Autocheck is the leading vehicle data provider in franchise dealerships NZ wide.

The super-fast, easy-to-use, mobile-friendly platform works from wherever you do. It’s equipped with digital signing so no more wasted time printing-signing-scanning documents. And its plate recognition software eliminates mistakes generating the wrong vehicle report.

All that, and bottom-line cost savings when you switch to Autocheck.

Contact Mike today.

BEST OF THE REST

// Suzuki Swift’s one-star safety rating debacle explained: Who’s to blame?

The boss of Suzuki Australia has explained why the latest Swift arrived Down Under with a sub-par safety specification that led to a one-star ANCAP safety rating, and prompted subsequent upgrades to get it to three stars.

• Read this article on Stuff

// BMW confirms sharp New Zealand pricing for all-electric iX3

BMW NZ has revealed aggressive pricing for the first Neue Klasse model to arrive here.

• Read this article on Driven

IN OTHER NEWS

// Franchise on top of world

Kia dealership in Auckland secures global platinum prestige dealer recognition.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Motor vehicle spending slips in February, ANZ data shows

Spending at car and truck dealers fell in February, although it remains higher than a year earlier,

• Read this article on Autotalk

// Open day makes comeback

A classics and collectables open day that made its debut last year was so popular it’s being brought back for 2026.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Darrow leaving MTF role

Mark Darrow is retiring as chairman of MTF Finance when his current term ends during the middle of this year.

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY OEM AUDIO

// Your customers want Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

It’s the ultimate upgrade to have iPhone/Android features seamlessly integrated into your car. Our replacement multimedia units install easily with quality surrounds for a factory look.

Buy Online with Nationwide Shipping and install support. Give your vehicles an unfair advantage.

• View all Apple CarPlay & Android Auto replacement units

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// San Francisco moves to install curbside EV chargers on city streets

San Francisco proposes curbside EV chargers across the city, aiming to install 100 by 2030 and expand charging access for renters.

• Read this article on Electrek

ONE LINERS

• Will BYD be the next automotive giant to join Formula 1?
• Rural transporters call for government clarity as diesel prices surge
• Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B to headline inaugural Anantara Concorso Roma
• V8-powered Ineos Grenadier to rival Mercedes-AMG G63 a possibility
• Renault returning? French carmaker could sell cars in NZ again

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HOT TOPIC

// EV owners happy with switch

Nearly all EV owners in New Zealand appear satisfied with switching to a low or zero-emissions model after a new survey revealed 96 per cent of them would happily buy another electric car.

• Read this article on Autofile

// More on this

• EVs and Beyond says EV owners unlikely to switch back to petrol, survey finds
• Stuff says 96% of electric car owners in NZ say they won’t go back to petrol

HOT TOPIC

// Mazda 6e specifications confirmed for New Zealand

Mazda New Zealand has confirmed the all-electric 6e sedan will arrive locally in the second half of 2026.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// More on this

• EVs and Beyond says Mazda focuses on single top grade for 6e
• Driven Car Guide says Mazda’s Chinese-collab 6e EV confirmed for NZ with European chassis tuning

HOT TOPIC

// Mercedes-Benz unveils VLE luxury electric minivan

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the VLE electric minivan, combining S-Class levels of luxury with electric power and minivan practicality.

• Read this article on EVs and Beyond

// More on this

• AutoTrader says The Mercedes-Benz VLE is an electric minivan with S-Class levels of luxury
• Driven Car Guide says Mercedes-Benz unveils electric VLE with 700km range and luxury van ambitions

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Faster vehicle reports. Less admin. Fewer mistakes.

There are good reasons Autocheck is the leading vehicle data provider in franchise dealerships NZ wide.

The super-fast, easy-to-use, mobile-friendly platform works from wherever you do. It’s equipped with digital signing so no more wasted time printing-signing-scanning documents. And its plate recognition software eliminates mistakes generating the wrong vehicle report.

All that, and bottom-line cost savings when you switch to Autocheck.

Contact Mike today.

BEST OF THE REST

// ChargeNet’s NZ ‘Autocharge’ stations can now recognise your EV and start charging automatically

ChargeNet, New Zealand’s largest provider of EV fast-charge stations, has introduced a new feature called Autocharge that enables a car to start charging as soon as it’s plugged in – no fob-tap, QR-scan or phone-app required.

• Read this article on Driven Car Guide

IN OTHER NEWS

// MTF Finance chair Mark Darrow to step down

MTF Finance board chair Mark Darrow will retire at the end of his current term in mid-2026, bringing to a

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Vehicle owners settle $10.9m claim against Hino

New Zealand vehicle owners have reached a $10.9 million in-principle settlement with truck manufacturer and distributor Hino Motors following a

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Model enters third generation

Mazda Motors of New Zealand has announced range details for its all-new CX-5, which is due to be launched here in the second half of the year.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Ute prices cut by $3k

All PRO-4X and ST-X variants ordered before the end of March will benefit from a $3,000 factory bonus.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Support for Auld Mug

Toyota NZ has renewed its longstanding partnership with Emirates Team New Zealand ahead of the defence of the 38th America’s Cup.

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY OEM AUDIO

// Your customers want Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

It’s the ultimate upgrade to have iPhone/Android features seamlessly integrated into your car. Our replacement multimedia units install easily with quality surrounds for a factory look.

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INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Donut Lab’s Latest Solid-State Battery Test Proves It Isn’t A Supercapacitor

The startup’s third test evaluates whether its solid-state battery is actually a supercapacitor. Here’s what the results say.

• Read this article on InsideEVs

ONE LINERS

• Audi’s hardcore RS3 Competition Limited confirmed for New Zealand
• Porsche Cayenne S Electric arrives with 490kW punch and 653km range
• Cupra Formentor VZ5 with the 5-cylinder heart of an Audi RS is coming to NZ
• Lamborghini CEO leaves door open for more off-road sports cars
• BMW iX3 will land in NZ with a compelling price

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HOT TOPIC

// Nissan NZ will give you a $3k discount on the new Navara, as long as you buy a flash one

Those who opt for the higher-end Nissan Navara ST-X and Pro-4X models will get a $3000 discount, as long as they place their orders before the end of March.

• Read this article on Driven Car Guide

// More on this

• Autotrader says Nissan undercuts Mitsubishi with $3000 Navara arrival discount

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BEST OF THE REST

// High-performance with plug

The all-new Audi RS 5 is due to arrive in New Zealand showrooms from September this year and is the first high-performance plug-in hybrid from Audi Sport.

• Read this article on Autofile

IN OTHER NEWS

// Dealer numbers best in six months

The number of dealers in New Zealand increased by six last month and stood at 2,603 at the end of February, according to figures from the Motor Vehicle Traders Register (MVTR).

• Read this article on Autofile

// Petrol could reach $4 a litre if Middle East conflict escalates

Petrol prices in New Zealand could climb as high as $4 a litre if the conflict in the Middle East

• Read this article on Autotalk

// Toyota renews 34-year Emirates Team New Zealand partnership

Susanne Hardy, Tatsuya Ishikawa, Kevin Shoebridge, Andrew Davis and Grant Dalton Toyota New Zealand has confirmed it will continue its

• Read this article on Autotalk

// Vehicle owners settle against Hino

A group of New Zealand vehicle owners have settled a claim against vehicle manufacturer and distributor Hino for $10.9 million.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Iran war hits car industry

Major Japanese carmakers are concerned the situation in the Middle East could deal a major blow to automotive exports. The war-afflicted region is a growing market with exports there reaching a record high in 2025,

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY OEM AUDIO

// Your customers want Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

It’s the ultimate upgrade to have iPhone/Android features seamlessly integrated into your car. Our replacement multimedia units install easily with quality surrounds for a factory look.

Buy Online with Nationwide Shipping and install support. Give your vehicles an unfair advantage.

• View all Apple CarPlay & Android Auto replacement units

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Slate Names New CEO Months Before Launching Its Cheap EV Truck

Just months before it’s set to launch its roughly $25,000 electric pickup truck, Slate Auto has a new CEO.

• Read this article on InsideEVs

ONE LINERS

• Opinion: it makes perfect sense for a ute to be ‘Car’ of the Year
• Light traffic growth points to improving economy
• Report: Porsche considering merging Panamera and Taycan models
• Four cars (and a bike) to beat New Zealand’s rising fuel prices

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// NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group

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