NZ Automotive Industry News

February 23rd, 2022


HOT TOPIC

// Ferrari’s very first SUV leaked online ahead of global launch

It’s a vehicle that Ferrari said it would never build, but keeping up with global demand means that an SUV was bound to come from the exotic Italian brand at some point.

// More on this 


SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.


BEST OF THE REST

// Kia coy on EV6 supply for NZ as model ‘sells out’ in Australia

2022 EV6Demand for Kia’s first fully electric vehicle is “strong” according to a spokesperson for Kia New Zealand.

// Support payments for companies

Owners of struggling businesses will be eligible for new coronavirus support payments until at least the peak of the omicron outbreak passes.


IN OTHER NEWS

// VW ID. Buzz launches March 9

The electric ID. Buzz five-seater and ID. Buzz Cargo three-seat van have their world premiere on…

// Ford’s CEO exploring ways to separate EV business to unlock Tesla-like value

Ford is looking at ways to separate its electric vehicle operation from its century-old legacy business, hoping to earn the sort of investor respect enjoyed by Tesla and other pure-play EV makers.

// Omicron will worsen skills shortage

An automotive recruitment specialist says the impending Omicron pandemic will worsen the skills shortage in New Zealand’s labour market.

// EV Torque – Install those chargers and they will come

Charging infrastructure and the uptake of EVs must go hand in glove. In New Zealand progress so far has been on two fronts, public infrastructure and the investment by citizens in regard to home charging.

// Whitianga automotive precinct up for grabs

The freehold automotive precinct on the corner of Monk Street and Mill Road in the center…

// Avoid panic buying Adblue

A global shortage of a compound used in some diesel engines has a company scrambling to make enough to keep trucks moving in New Zealand.

// Basturkmen saga ends with huge fine

Antony Basturkmen, owner of the now liquidated Auckland car dealership No Reserve Cars Ltd, has been…

// Magna offers carmakers a faster way to electric utes

Magna International, normally responsible for supplying parts to the likes of Ford, General Motors, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Volkswagen, has created an all-electric four-wheel-drive system that could allow automakers to offer electric utes at lower costs.

// Crackdown on cartel action

The Commerce Commission has joined with international counterparts in a working group focusing on the identification of potential cartel conduct in global supply chains.


ONE LINERS


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 23rd, 20222022-02-22T22:29:37+13:00

February 22nd, 2022


HOT TOPIC

// EV batteries keeping fire alive on cargo ship carrying hundreds of supercars

Firefighters are struggling to extinguish the Felicity Ace cargo ship carrying a number of luxurious supercars.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// Volkswagen Commercial confirms arrival of South African Wolf

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV) has confirmed that the all-new 2022 Amarok one-tonne pick-up to be built alongside the Ford Ranger at the Silverton plant in South Africa will be powered by a V6 TDI engine.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// Renault hydrogen concept car unveiled May

Renault has released a teaser picture of its hydrogen-powered concept car to be revealed in May…

// More on this 


SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.


BEST OF THE REST

// Illegal trader to pay out $175k

A banned car dealer who operated under multiple identities selling vehicles that never arrived has avoided imprisonment.

// MIA: discount calculator needed

The Motor Industry Association (MIA) is waiting for the government to confirm the system to be used to work out rebates and fees on light vehicles from April 1 has been finalized.


IN OTHER NEWS

// How new laws will impact classic cars

In the industry, the organization has issued further guidance about how the clean car discount and standard will affect classic and collectible vehicle enthusiasts.

// Subscription service cuts dealers out of used cars

Volvo Cars UK will now dispose of its vehicle fleet which has been driven by executives, leasees, or subscription users through an online platform rather than offering them to the national dealer network through a tender or auction process.

// Hertz invests in EV rentals

Vehicle rental firm Hertz is expanding its global EV commitment with investment in UFODrive, a leading self-service EV rental company and e-mobility service provider in Europe.

// From Kenya to Prague and back again

New Zealand Automobile Association chief executive Brian Gibbons retired after four decades of service in January…

// Nissan building two new EVs at US factory

Nissan is investing US$500 million to transform its Canton Mississippi assembly plant to build new Nissan…

// EVs maintain grip on Kiwi gong

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has scooped the 2021 New Zealand Car of the Year crown, the third electric vehicle in a row to claim the annual award.

// Carr & Haslam’s eCanter delivers EVs

One of New Zealand’s oldest transport companies is now delivering electric vehicles on the back of its very first battery-electric truck.

// Vodafone FiberSense partnership could aid AVs

Vodafone New Zealand is expanding its FiberSense partnership pilot to Wellington to protect customers from unexpected…


ONE LINERS


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 22nd, 20222022-02-21T23:31:24+13:00

February 21st, 2022


HOT TOPIC

// Clean Car plans pass in Parliament

Waka Kotahi has been given six weeks to complete the work required to get the government’s Clean Car plans activated, following its passing in parliament last night.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// Yamaha and Toyota are making a 331kW hydrogen V8 with wild exhaust

Toyota and Yamaha are collaborating on the development of a naturally aspirated V8 engine that runs exclusively on hydrogen.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// Colonial reports 42% profit increase for the half-year

The Colonial Motor Company (CMC) is reporting a trading profit after tax of $18 million for the six months ended December 31, 2021, up 42% on the same prior-year period.

// More on this 


SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.


BEST OF THE REST

// Jeep’s extra-large Grand Cherokee L confirmed for New Zealand

Almost as iconic as the Wrangler, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been a valuable vehicle in Jeep’s local line-up for some years now, and that’s set to improve with the inclusion of the Grand Cherokee L this year.

// Hyundai Staria rated ANCAP’s safest van

ANCAP has released its updated ‘Commercial Van Safety Comparison’ report, including analysis of the LDV Deliver 9 and Hyundai Staria Load as well as revised assessments of the Mercedes-Benz Vito and Iveco Daily.


IN OTHER NEWS

// Ford teases next-generation Everest ahead of global launch

Ford will officially reveal their next-gen Everest next month. A 20-second teaser video was shared by Ford overnight. Shots are carefully edited and directed, so you can’t really see too much of the actual car.

// BMW Z4 getting the chop?

BMW is allegedly considering dropping the Z4 from its line-up by 2025, due to the roadster not selling as well as expected.

// Residence visas brought forward

Up to 10,500 people eligible to apply for a 2021 resident visa from March 1 will be able to apply from next week, says Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

// Ineos flip-flops on EV Grenadier as production kicks off

Ineos has long favoured hydrogen fuel cells as a means to creating a zero-emission Grenadier off-roader, but it seems it may be reconsidering.

// Ducati fashions a Special XDiavel

A collaboration between Ducati and Poltrona Frau has resulted in the XDiavel Nera, the latest model to debut as part of Ducati’s World Première web series.

// Tesla focus of U.S. safety probe after owners bombard website with complaints

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is probing sudden unexpected braking in Tesla vehicles, the latest safety probe faced by the electric vehicle maker.

// Cargo ship carrying Bugattis, Porsches, and Lambos catches fire

A cargo ship carrying Porsches, Audis, and Lamborghinis are on fire in the Atlantic Ocean.


ONE LINERS


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 21st, 20222022-02-20T19:35:34+13:00

February 18th, 2022


HOT TOPIC

// Watch: Veloqx Fangio revealed as the world’s strangest-looking Ferrari F12

Ferrari is a brand that holds its morals very close to its heart. It has been known to issue cease and desist letters to customers over questionable modification of its cars, so it’ll be interesting to see what happens with this new Veloqx Fangio.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// Roll-on, roll-off at Northport

A pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) has called into Northport, but there’s no need for vehicle importers to despatch transporters to Marsden Point.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// Introduction planned for Mercedes-AMG EQE 53’s arrival

A local introduction is planned for the fully electric Mercedes-AMG EQE 53’s arrival in New Zealand, although Mercedes-Benz New Zealand says it’s too early to put a specific time frame on that.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// AVs planned by JLR and NVIDIA

Jaguar Land Rover is partnering with artificial intelligence (AI) and computing company NVIDIA to jointly develop AI-powered autonomous driving and connected services for all future vehicles built on NVIDIA Drive.

// More on this 


SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.


BEST OF THE REST

// Production of Ineos Grenadier slated to start in coming months after nearly a years delay

It’s a double case of better late than never and good things take time concerning the production of the Ineos Grenadier.

// Bid to delay clean car laws fails

The National Party has failed in an attempt to get the introduction of the government’s clean car package delayed by six months to help the motor industry prepare for the legislative changes.


IN OTHER NEWS

// Same Macan, different name: Porsche reveal its Macan T

Porsche’s Macan T is the brand’s latest addition to its small but humble Macan SUV line-up.The T (for Touring) slots in between Porsche’s base model Macan and the S model, both of which are available in New Zealand.

// Design boss goes racing in biodiesel Mazda2

Mazda’s head of design Ikuo Maeda will pull on his helmet and racing suit joining another…

// Report flags up van safety

Ancap has released its second round of comparative results evaluating the availability and performance of active safety systems across a range of goods-carrying commercial vans.

// Jeep maker Stellantis gets creative on cutting jobs in EV shift

Cutting jobs in France is never easy. So Stellantis, the manufacturer of Peugeot cars and Jeep SUVs has come up with a novel way to slim down its payroll:

// The rare reverse restorod you didn’t ask for but could own

Restorods are cool, but reverse restorods are often more intriguing. Not only are they super rare, but taking a modern car and giving it a vintage look must demand so much attention to detail.

// New people at UBCO

Electric adventure vehicles supplier Tauranga-founded UBCO has five new board and executive appointments. Joining UBCO’s board…


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

ADDED THIS WEEK

Alfa Romeo

  • Free 3 Year Service Plan

NISSAN

  • X-TRAIL ST 4WD – MSRP FROM $36,990 +ORC
  • NAVARA ST DOUBLE CAB 4X2 – MSRP FROM $47,990 +ORC

REMOVED THIS WEEK

FORD

  • Special Edition Vehicle – Mustang GT RTR Series Two

NISSAN

  • 1% finance over 36 months with zero Deposit. Available on the NAVARA SL DOUBLE CAB 4X4, NAVARA SL DOUBLE CAB 4X2 and X-TRAIL 4WD AUTO ST.

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 18th, 20222022-02-18T10:11:05+13:00

February 17th, 2022


HOT TOPIC

// Polestar 5 to get a brand new ‘supercar level’ chassis

Polestar’s upcoming 5 electric sports sedan will ride on a brand-new platform offering “supercar levels” of stiffness.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// Dealer apologizes for anti-mandate customer email

A Whangarei-based Kia dealer principal is apologizing for publishing his personal views on the government’s vaccination…

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// MTF pays tribute to former MD Angus Bradshaw

MTF Finance has paid tribute to its former managing director Angus Bradshaw who died in Arrowtown…

// More on this 


SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.


BEST OF THE REST

// Mercedes pull covers off 2023 AMG EQE, less range than before but more grunt

Mercedes-AMG has revealed their souped-up Mercedes EQE, which gives the all-electric E-Class sedan a more powerful kick. In its basic trim, the AMG EQE pumps out 463 horsepower from its dual electric motors.

// Clean Car legislation enters committee stages

The Land Transport (Clean Car) Amendment Bill has entered the final stages of its passage through Parliament.


IN OTHER NEWS

// Grand Cherokee L on its way, NZ arrival confirmed for later this year

Jeep New Zealand will welcome new addition to their domestic line-up soon, with the Grand Cherokee L hitting our shores in the coming months.

// Hydrogen fuel is the problem, not fuel cells – IDTechEx

On the face of it, 2021 was a good year for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) in passenger car markets.

// Strong result for Mercedes-Benz Group following truck and bus IPO

Following the deconsolidation and initial public offer of the Daimler Truck and Bus business on February 1, 2022, the new Mercedes-Benz Group AG entity says preliminary unaudited figures show strong financial results for 2021.

// Expert joins ChargeNet from the UK

ChargeNet, New Zealand’s nationwide charging network for electric vehicles (EVs), has appointed industry veteran Martin Miles as chief operating officer.

// Skoda show off new Fabia Monte Carlo in its flesh

Skoda officially pulled the covers off its Fabia Monte Carlo overnight. The fourth-generation supermini becomes the latest in Skoda’s growing fleet to receive the brand’s top-end treatment.

// Last hoorah: BMW M2 revealed as Moto GP safety car

The sun is setting on BMW’s first-generation 2-Series, and after eight years in the spotlight, it’s fair to say that the range-topping M2 was a raging success for the German brand.


ONE LINERS


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 17th, 20222022-02-16T23:52:50+13:00

February 16th, 2022

BEST OF TODAY

// Lexus working on all-electric IS replacement

Lexus is allegedly developing an all-electric IS successor, with a launch expected by 2025. The new sedan will do battle with the likes of the Tesla Model 3, BMW i4, and Polestar 2.

// Hyundai all but confirmed to be working on Ioniq 5 N

Hyundai is reportedly working hard on a high-performance version of its Ioniq 5 electric SUV, which could share components with Kia’s top-rung EV6 GT.


SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.


IN OTHER NEWS

// Triumph shows first look at its electric bike

Triumph has been working on its first all-electric motorbike for nearly a year, believe it or not.

// Sparking up the EV charging industry

Jet Charge has raised A$25 million to power the Australasian EV transition.

// Alfa Romeo wants to return to making sports cars but EVs come first

Alfa Romeo may still soon return with a new sports car. However, that depends on how quickly the marque can…

// Chinese EVs in hot demand globally

Tesla China has enjoyed a good start to this year, exporting 40,499 EVs (mainly Tesla Model 3s and Model Ys) and selling 19,346 in China.

// DeLorean going into the future with electric sports car planned for 2022

Great Scott; DeLorean is making a return to the automotive world. Yeah, you read that right. The Texas-based manufacturer responsible…

// Do current fuel prices mean this is the best time to buy an EV?

Fuel prices are surging as a result of increased overseas demand, Covid-19 restrictions, international oil prices, and geopolitical issues, and it’s rough going for Kiwi drivers.


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 16th, 20222022-02-15T22:53:13+13:00

February 15th, 2022


HOT TOPIC

// Toyota patent reveals plans for EV with manual transmission and clutch

As far as creating multi-gear transmissions for electric vehicles go, only two automakers have succeeded with the Porsche Taycan and Audi E-Tron GT.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// NZ makes top ten cheap lists for buying new SUVs and hatchbacks

For most of us, buying brand new cars is not a cheap exercise. Heck, some of us haven’t even had such luxury. But it seems it is not all that bad.

// More on this 


SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.


BEST OF THE REST

// Lamborghini wants to keep making combustion cars well into the 2030s

It might not be entirely done with. It being internal combustion engines and Lamborghini being their savior. That’s because Lamborghini’s CEO Stephan Winkelmann wants to avoid making full-electric vehicles for as long as possible.

// ‘Sensible changes’ planned to Clean Car scheme

A number of “sensible changes” are planned to the Land Transport (Clean Vehicles) Amendment Bill during…

// NZ micromobility ready to rocket

New Zealand’s micromobility sector revenue is expected to soar from $9.5 million in 2020 to $2.395…


IN OTHER NEWS

// More electrification for all-new C-Class

Mercedes-Benz New Zealand has launched two mild-hybrid four-cylinder petrol variants of the all-new C-Class sedan to…

// Toyota Mirai FCEV lease deal in Australia

Toyota Mirai fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) are going to Australia’s former chief scientist Dr. Alan Finkel, energy retailer Red Energy, FCEV bus and truck manufacturer Hyzon, Telstra, Acciona, and Melbourne’s Yarra Council.

// Spending on cars steady

Spending on vehicles remained steady during January – dropping only 0.4 percent – while most other industries saw an increase when compared with December 2021, according to Stats NZ.

// Volvo Cars expect EV sales to grow faster than market

Volvo Cars says it expects sales of electric cars will grow faster than the overall market…

// The Ram TRX has been given two extra wheels and even more power

If you’re of the opinion the Hellcat-powered Ram 1500 TRX just isn’t quite enough truck for your needs, perhaps you should check this out.

// New EV motor avoids rare earths

A new-generation automotive electric motor will be developed and made in France under a Renault Group,…

// Europe needs 65 million electric vehicle chargers by 2035

Europe will have 130 million electric vehicles on the road by 2035, according to a joint report from Ernst & Young and the electricity industry trade association Eurelectric.

// ABB outlines e-mobility plans

ABB e-mobility is hosting its virtual Capital Markets Day with discussion around ABB’s EV charging products,…

// EV fleet transition tool wins local award

Survey & Spatial NZ president Dr. Kat Salm and Critchlow Geospatial managing director Steve Critchlow.


ONE LINERS


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 15th, 20222022-02-14T20:40:59+13:00

February 14th, 2022


HOT TOPIC

// Emissions guide now available for dealers

The NZ Transport Agency has published a downloadable spreadsheet to assist dealers in identifying CO2 emissions of…

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// Clean Car Bill one step closer, Parliament continues to have split of opinion

Members of Parliament have finished a second reading of the Land Transport (Clean Vehicles) Amendment Bill, moving the bill one step closer to fruition.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// BMW’s Super Bowl ad features Arnold Schwarzenegger as Zeus

How does a Greek god deal with retirement? Not well, if BMW’s new Super Bowl television advertisement is anything to go by. Starring a pair of superstars in the form of Arnold Schwarzenegger as Zeus, the Greek god of lightning

// More on this 


SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// A high margin product with ongoing revenue

Designed to be easily applied by your valets with minimal training required, plus you’ll get ongoing commissions from customers purchasing refill products online.

Newcoat is not just a paint coating system; it’s a total maintenance solution for all surfaces of the vehicle. Formulated from pure Silica Dioxide, it gives a crystal-clear layer, permanently bonded to the vehicle.

Best of all, there’s a 5+5 year warranty. If your customers can’t remove dirt or stains from the paint, fabric or leather, Newcoat will assist with professional advice and assistance up to a value of $1,500 per event.


BEST OF THE REST

// 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale gets three hybrid powertrain options

Alfa Romeo’s 2019 Tonale concept has finally been unveiled as a production vehicle, and it’ll come with hybrid options. This will be the companies first compact SUV, which will compete with the likes of the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Mercedes GLA.

// PHEV Mazda SUV primed for NZ?

Potential that Mazda’s CX-60, a new large rear-drive SUV confirmed for New Zealand, will arrive here with something new for the brand – a plug-in hybrid system – seems high.

// Save the date for the Next-Gen Ford Ranger Raptor reveal

Ford Motor Company is getting ready to reveal the much-anticipated Next-Gen Ford Ranger Raptor. The reveal will happen via Ford’s Facebook and YouTube Premiere channels on February 22, 2022, at 8:00 PM New Zealand time.


IN OTHER NEWS

// Honda Civic Type R claims one last lap record before bowing out

It may be pretty long in the tooth these days, but the FK8-generation Honda Civic Type R remains a force to be reckoned with in the hot hatch space.

// New Zealand’s micromobility sector is gearing up for big things

New Zealand’s micromobility sector is about to blow up, with revenue expected to grow from $9.5 million in 2020 to $2.4 billion by 2030.

// DRIVEN EXPLAINS PART 1: What’s the difference between HEV, PHEV, and BEV?

There are many different types of electric powertrains. Confused? You don’t have to be. Let us explain. First, there’s HEV, for Hybrid Electric Vehicle. Toyota introduced this technology in the late-1990s with the Prius.

// You didn’t buy an electric car. But you’re paying for one.

Conor Sen is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist and the founder of Peachtree Creek Investments. OPINION: Cars have been a big part of the inflation picture over the past year.

// MPs at loggerheads over clean car laws

The clean car standard and a feebate scheme have moved a step closer to passing into legislation following the second reading of the Land Transport (Clean Vehicles) Amendment Bill in parliament.

// Toyota’s quarterly auto sales sag on computer chip crunch

Toyota’s profit slipped nearly 6 per cent last quarter, the Japanese automaker said Wednesday, highlighting the headwinds automakers are facing in a computer chip crunch caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

// Bank hit by loan changes

Lending applications approved by ASB have dropped by about seven percent since changes to the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act (CCCFA) was introduced on December 1.

// Aston Martin to heavily update DB11, DBS, and Vantage

Aston Martin is in for some radical changes to their front-engine sports cars. Changes so significant company chairman Lawrence Stroll says the DB11, DBS, and Vantage will be like “all-new cars.”

// Porsche app will allow users to record roads and drive them again virtually

Ever driven down a road and thought “wow, this would be great as a simulation”? No? Well, Porsche is making this happen nevertheless.

// Ford GT Heritage edition pays tribute to blue-badged motorsport icons

The current-generation Ford GT is a curious car. It was first unveiled in 2015 when Ford only planned on building 500 units.


ONE LINERS


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 14th, 20222022-02-14T00:53:02+13:00

February 11th, 2022


HOT TOPIC

// Will Kia bring the 51km Sportage PHEV to New Zealand?

It may not be the most ‘Hollywood’ release of this year, but the new Kia Sportage is nevertheless one of the most important new cars of 2022.

// More on this 


SPONSORED BY AUTOSURE

// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

Autosure mechanical breakdown insurance is available for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, and includes AA Roadservice Cover to give your customers peace of mind driving.


BEST OF THE REST

// A closer look at the Lexus Electrified Saloon concept

Photos shared on Twitter give us a closer look at the Lexus Electrified Saloon Concept, showing us the side and rear view of the car.

// Used car dealer caught selling second ‘clocked’ Jaguar

The Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal has found that an Auckland used car dealer has once again breached the 1986 Fair Trading Act by misrepresenting the odometer reading of a Jaguar vehicle that was imported from Singapore.

// EV registrations slow down

The number of new and used electric vehicle (EV) registrations fell below four figures last month, with 977 units the lowest total since August 2021.


IN OTHER NEWS

// 2022 Ford GT Heritage Edition celebrates behind the scenes efforts of 1966 Le Mans triumph

Ford has unveiled its latest, and likely last, Ford GT Heritage Edition, celebrating the efforts of Alan Mann, who set up the brand’s Ferrari-beating Le Mans triumphs.

// Park outside: Hyundai, Kia recall vehicles due to fire risk

Hyundai and Kia are telling the owners of nearly 485,000 vehicles in the U.S. to park them outdoors because they can catch fire even if the engines have been turned off.

// Australian EV charger partnership formed

AutoNexus and EVSE Australia have launched a commercial partnership to provide EV charging technology to support AutoNexus and the shift to green electric mobility.

// Velodyne Lidar wins patent challenge

Velodyne Lidar says it has won a patent challenge brought by competitor Quanergy in the US…

// Tesla quietly remove hardware that could compromise safety

Tesla was one of the many car brands to have record-breaking sales in 2021, despite global chip shortages.

// Biden welcomes Tritium’s US factory plan

US president Joe Biden has acknowledged Brisbane-based EV fast-charging firm Tritium

// Tyre sales to boost charity

Bridgestone is helping boost the coffers of Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC) this month with its “Drive for a Cure” promotion.

// Neuron using Google Maps for NZ rides

Neuron has integrated with Google Maps to help riders better plan their trips across New Zealand.


ONE LINERS


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 11th, 20222022-02-10T23:00:25+13:00

February 10th, 2022


HOT TOPIC

// World Car of the Year finalists announced

The ten finalists in the World car of the Year (WCOTY) awards have been revealed, along with the five finalists in each of the individual categories.

// More on this 


HOT TOPIC

// Canadian replacing Pole at BMW Group New Zealand

Leading a brand in New Zealand is attractive to foreign nationals as they climb the corporate ladder, but Pole Karol Abrasowicz-Madej has unexpectedly announced his departure from the BMW Group to embark on a new career.

// More on this 


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// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

Autosure mechanical breakdown insurance is available for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, and includes AA Roadservice Cover to give your customers peace of mind driving.


BEST OF THE REST

// MG is making an affordable sportscar EV for 2024

MG is set to celebrate its 100th birthday in 2024, and to celebrate, the automaker is planning to unveil a production sportscar to complement its SUV-focused model range.

// Mazda CX-60 PHEV premieres March 8

The new Mazda CX-60 PHEV debuts globally on March 8 and is the first of two…

// Ram is creating an EV ute, and it wants your input

Ram has recently announced that it’ll be joining the world of the EV, with its first electric ute coming in the not too distant future.


IN OTHER NEWS

// Alfa Romeo takes first step into the future with new Tonale

Alfa Romeo’s newest addition, the Tonale, puts a stake in the ground for the Italian manufacturer.

// Nissan swings back to profit despite chip crunch

Japanese automaker Nissan swung back into the black for the quarter through December, despite shortages of computer chips that have hit the entire industry and many other manufacturers.

// Shell confirms dealer supply agreement with Hyundai

Shell Lubricants has confirmed an ongoing supply agreement which will see the brand’s oil used by…

// Marque hits green milestone

Mazda New Zealand is celebrating the planting of more than 111,000 native trees across the country as part of a partnership with Trees That Count.

// Tesla owners pushing for NP charging stations

New Plymouth District Council has been accused of moving at a “glacial pace” towards meeting the growing need for electric vehicle charging points.

// Meet the world’s coolest, and likely fastest, Geo Metro

The Geo Metro. Canada’s, and therefore the world’s, most fantastic car, mainly down to its insane fuel economy.

// BMW CEO warns against phasing out ICE too early

BMW CEO, Oliver Zipse, believes phasing out the combustion engine too soon won’t be beneficial for “the climate or anyone else.

// Drivers look past petrol price pain

Just as one man’s loss can be another’s windfall, sellers of electric vehicles and e-bikes are eyeing potential gains from the latest round of “record” petrol prices, especially if they’re sustained.

// Nissan set to stop producing combustion engines

Nissan is set to become the first major Japanese automaker to completely cease creating petrol engines for global markets.


ONE LINERS


HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Calculator

Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).


February 10th, 20222022-02-09T23:49:54+13:00
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