NZ Automotive Industry News

15th December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Elon Musk named Time magazine’s ‘Person of the Year’

Calling him a “clown, genius, edgelord, visionary, industrialist, showman,” Time magazine has named Tesla chief executive Elon Musk as its Person of the Year for 2021.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOHUB

// ‘Door to door’ with one fixed price

At AUTOHUB we don’t sell or buy cars. Instead, for 18 years we’ve been offering
the easiest way to import and export your vehicles, and we offer a ‘door to door’
service for one fixed price.

BEST OF THE REST

// Rivian R1T MotorTrend’s 2022 ‘Truck of the Year’

MotorTrend Group’s media brand has named the electric Rivian R1T ute (aka pickup truck) as its…

// Trio score top safety marks

A trio of vehicles have all been awarded five-star safety ratings following the latest test assessments by ANCAP against its 2020/22 rating criteria.

// Spending on vehicles tops $200m

Spending on motor vehicles climbed back past $200m for the first time in four months in November, according to new figures from Stats NZ.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Honda shows off new Civic Type R at Suzuka test

Having issued its first official photos of the next-generation Civic Type R in October, Honda has now followed up with a series of pictures showing its new hot hatch testing at Suzuka Circuit in Japan, giving us further insight into the model’s looks ahead of its impending launch.

// NZ EV registrations well short of goal

The former National government’s target of 64,000 EVs on New Zealand roads by the end of this year will be about 27,000 shy.

// Hyundai’s hydrogen Nexo now available to Kiwi buyers

Hyundai’s local arm has keenly hitched its wagon to the push for greener alternative fuel solutions, with its plethora of electric and hybrid models as well as its frequent showcasing of its hydrogen fuel cell Nexo crossover.

// Mixed fortunes for vehicle lenders

Car financiers have had mixed fortunes in the past year with many seeing their loan books decrease despite the prices of vehicles increasing

// Chch mayoral contender seeks hydrogen source for new car

A Christchurch mayoral contender for 2022, councillor Phil Mauger has bought a hydrogen-powered Hyundai Nexo –…

// VW to spend $3.8 billion on battery hub, sets up separate unit

Volkswagen will invest 2 billion euros (NZ$3.8 billion) in a planned battery hub in Germany as part of a decision to create a dedicated company for the carmaker’s battery business.

// Toyota Tundra set to come to Down Under?

Barely a month after rumours flowed that Ford is plotting to bring the F-150 to Australasia for the first time, there’s now rumours that Toyota’s equivalent full-size American-market Tundra could also be on the cards for the region.

// 2023 Mini hatch spied in China with no camouflage a whole year early

Images of what appears to be the the next generation Mini hatch have been spotted on Chinese social media with absolutely no camouflage, and looking pretty production ready.

// New Tesla app feature to try and stop ‘ICE-ing’

Tesla to initiate an over-the-air software update in China to help owners avoid ICE-ing. ICE-ing is when a petrol powered car parks in an EV parking spot,

// How about a car that changes colour at the touch of a button?

The 2022 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) isn’t far away, and it has automakers making all sorts of plans to reveal at the event in Las Vegas.

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).

15th December 20212021-12-15T03:55:30+13:00

14th December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// GM won’t do vertical infotainment screens: Here’s why

Vehicle interior designs are always changing and evolving. When infotainment screens started getting larger and larger, some automakers (namely Tesla) started playing around with positioning, shape, orientation, and even the integration of the screen itself.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Support for car safety rule

ANCAP has welcomed the announcement to introduce an Australian Design Rule (ADR) to mandate the fitment of autonomous emergency braking (AEB) in light vehicles.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOHUB

// ‘Door to door’ with one fixed price

At AUTOHUB we don’t sell or buy cars. Instead, for 18 years we’ve been offering
the easiest way to import and export your vehicles, and we offer a ‘door to door’
service for one fixed price.

BEST OF THE REST

// Mercedes creates history with first ‘legal’ hands-off self-driving system

While most of the conversation’s focus on self-driving tech has been on Tesla and its Autopilot and Full Self Driving systems (for better and for worse), the American firm isn’t the only brand working on Level 3 and beyond autonomy.

// Chevrolet to start making electric Silverado in early 2023

Chevrolet’s latest ‘anything Ford can do, I can do better’ push is pick-up electrification. Ford has got the jump on General Motors with its F-150 Lightning.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Next-generation Mini leaked way ahead of time

Our first look at the next generation of Mini hatchback is here, a good year before we expected to see it.

// Finance company CEO stepping down

MTF Finance is on the hunt for a new chief executive officer after Glen Todd announced he will step down from the role in early 2022.

// GM CEO says making ventilators changed the company culture

The CEO of General Motors said Thursday that the automaker learned valuable lessons last year when it stepped in to boost emergency production of ventilators to treat severely ill Covid-19 patients.

// Morgan returns with 280kW GTR V8, its most powerful car ever

The world of purist, British sports cars is surprisingly crowded. There’s Ariel and its bonkers Atom, Noble and the old-but-gold M600, Caterham and its open-wheeled Seven, Lotus and its Emira, Evija, and new focus on electrification, and probably a few others, too.

// This Peugeot Expert takes the food truck to another level

Peugeot Design Lab has worked in collaboration with Whirlpool to create a stunning food truck based on the Peugeot Expert van. It’s a follow-up to the 2015 “Le Bistrot du Lion” concept, and the result takes the food truck to another level.

// Future electric vehicle production secures Hannover site

The future of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV) plant in Hannover has been secured for at least the next decade as it will become a high tech multi-brand site.

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).

14th December 20212021-12-13T21:18:13+13:00

13th December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// The Toyota GR Yaris is the AA DRIVEN New Zealand Car of the Year for 2021!

The Toyota GR Yaris is the overall winner of the 2021 AA DRIVEN New Zealand Car of the Year. It was one of the first cars we reviewed this year and we simply couldn’t get it out of our heads.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota orders 100 more award-winning GR Yaris

Toyota New Zealand has confirmed production of another 100 units of the GR Yaris performance hatch will be available to the local market following its overall win at the 2021 AA Driven car of the year awards (AA Driven COTY).

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Drivers playing video games? US is looking into Tesla case

Last August, Vince Patton was watching a YouTube video of a Tesla owner who had made a startling observation: Tesla drivers could now play a video game on their car’s touch-screen dashboard – while the vehicle is moving.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New Honda Civic hits NZ: Pricing and spec confirmed for Corolla rival

Honda’s Civic is now in its 11th generation, the new model having just arrived. Only the single variant will be offered locally, the highly-specified Sport, priced at $47,000.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota CEO doesn’t expect NZ govt to listen to emissions critiques

It’s been a significant few months for Toyota’s local arm in terms of electric vehicles, with the unveiling of the production version of the bZ4X and the arrival of the Lexus UX300e.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOHUB

// ‘Door to door’ with one fixed price

At AUTOHUB we don’t sell or buy cars. Instead, for 18 years we’ve been offering
the easiest way to import and export your vehicles, and we offer a ‘door to door’
service for one fixed price.

BEST OF THE REST

// SsangYong unveils 340km Korando e-Motion EV, confirmed for NZ

Some four months after showcasing its first electric car in pictures, Korean firm SsangYong has finally shared some of its Korando e-Motion’s critical numbers and abilities.

// VIA shocked at Clean Car penalty details

VIA is expressing shock and concern at details loaded onto RightCar’s dealer pages this week that further detail the penalties vehicles are set to pay under the Clean Car Discount scheme.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Morgan announces Plus 8 GTR, its most powerful car ever

Morgan has taken the wraps off its latest creation, the mighty Plus 8 GTR, which comes bearing Bavarian V8 power.

// SsangYong Rhino set for power upgrade

In the grand scheme of the local ute segment, the SsangYong Rhino remains something of an underdog, with its sharp pricing strategy, huge cabin space, and long equipment list.

// Polestar prepares for call to action

Polestar is preparing to launch a call for action among suppliers, entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, universities, researchers,

// Volkswagen boosts future tech spending

Volkswagen raised its five-year spending plan and overhauled its management board, seeking to catch up with Tesla and end an internal dispute over the changes needed to get there.

// GM reaches supply deals for electric vehicle motor magnets

General Motors has taken two more steps to make sure it has the raw materials for the transition from petroleum to battery power, this time lining up magnets for electric vehicle motors.

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).

13th December 20212021-12-13T04:14:53+13:00

10th December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Next-generation Volkswagen Amarok teased again, South African production confirmed

Now that the new Ford Ranger is out in the open, the next big ute unveiling that we have to look forward is coming from Volkswagen, and is regarding the new Amarok.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Watch: Renault Zoe scores zero-star NCAP safety rating

Historically, French carmaker Renault has generally always had strong safety ratings with Euro NCAP. However, its latest tested offering looks…

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Lexus enters fleet space with EV

Lexus New Zealand has today launched its first EV into the New Zealand market – significantly also the first time its parent brand Toyota has entered the space as well.

// 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

// Mysterious new BMW i3 leaked in pics (and it’s not a hatch)

In a somewhat confusing and curious turn of events, images of a new fully-electric BMW i3 have emerged overseas,…

// Electric car targets ‘fantasy’

Industry organisation says government needs to adopt more realistic targets to fight climate change.

// Toyota doubles down on hydrogen in spite of EV

Toyota is not backing away from its bet on hydrogen in spite of finally getting an electric vehicle on the road in New Zealand.

IN OTHER NEWS

// New Qashqai scores five-stars under more stringent protocol

The all-new Nissan Qashqai has been awarded the top five-star safety rating by the independent European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP).

// Dealers back charity fundraiser

MG supports Meals on Wheels campaign through test drives for second year in a row.

// Kiwi customers to receive My BMW App updates

BMW Group New Zealand has introduced new features for the My BMW App, to elevate the user experience while bringing new levels of technology and convenience.

// Gearing up for business

Trader says stock in Auckland has dropped during Covid-19 lockdown.

// Stellantis targeting 20 billion Euro through software revenue

Stellantis has mapped out its software strategy to deploy next-generation tech platforms, to transform how customers interact with their vehicles, and to generate 20 billion Euro in incremental annual revenues by 2030.

// Trade fairly with sales

Regulator warns retailers to ensure seasonal sales and discounts comply with law by being genuine.

// EV RUC extension to March 31, 2024

The EV road user charges (RUC) exemption due to end on December 31 this year has now been extended to March 31, 2024.

// Intel jumps on plans to take its Mobileye car business public

Intel Corp. plans to list shares of its Mobileye self-driving car business by the middle of next year, letting the chipmaker capitalise on its investment in a burgeoning industry.

// Port appoints chief executive

Roger Gray shifting from Lyttelton Port Company to top job at Ports of Auckland.

// Volkswagen wants more carbon-neutral lithium in its EVs

While electric vehicles are obviously less polluting for the environment at the tailpipe, their critics often cite that they’re ‘hardly green’ when it comes to producing them.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

No Changes this week

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).

10th December 20212021-12-09T22:49:18+13:00

9th December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Polestar 2 gets performance software upgrade

Polestar has released a performance-oriented software upgrade for the electric Polestar 2 Long Range Dual motor in nine European markets such as the United Kingdom and Germany.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Fully electric Kia EV6 NZ arrival just weeks away

After noting earlier in the year that its fully electric EV6 would be touching down by the end of 2021, Kia’s local arm has reiterated that the model’s arrival is just a week away — arrival slated officially for late Q1.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Peugeot to go all-electric in Europe from 2030

Peugeot has confirmed it will move all European models onto EV platforms by next decade.

// 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

// Rest in Peace: Kia NZ confirms it’s axing the Stinger

After a tumultuous year for the embattled nameplate, it’s been confirmed that the Kia Stinger has been cancelled for New Zealand.

// Next-generation A4 will be topped by electric RS model

The next generation of Audi A4 has been detailed, and it looks to be one of the first of Audi’s ‘normal’ models to get the electrification treatment.

// Lamborghini to launch first EV in 2027 or 2028

Lamborghini chief executive, Stephan Winkelmann, has confirmed the brand will launch it’s first all-electric vehicle, and it’s set to hit the market in either 2027 or 2028.

IN OTHER NEWS

// GMC Hummer EV Edition 1 production ready

Photos of the range-topping GMC Hummer EV Edition 1 from the November 2021 SEMA Show in Las Vegas are provided by GM Authority.

// Ports of Auckland appoints new CEO

Ports of Auckland has appointed current Lyttelton Port Company boss Roger Gray as its new chief executive.

// Radar critical for mobility’s future

Radar is fundamental to automotive safety and critical to achieving emerging level four autonomy.

// Stellantis wants to outfit cars with AI to drive up revenue

Carmaker Stellantis announced a strategy Tuesday to embed AI-enabled software in 34 million vehicles across its 14 brands, hoping the tech upgrade will help it bring in 20 billion euros (NZ$36.7 billion) in annual revenue by 2030.

// Agency extends IT deal

Company vows to deliver “easy-to-use services” for vehicle registrations over the coming decade.

// Intel jumps on plans to take its Mobileye car business public

Intel Corp. plans to list shares of its Mobileye self-driving car business by the middle of next year, letting the chipmaker capitalise on its investment in a burgeoning industry.

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).

9th December 20212021-12-09T02:00:56+13:00

8th December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Ford planning to become second biggest EV manufacturer in the world

After seeing huge interest in the F-150 Lightning, Ford believes it can become the second largest manufacturers of electric vehicles in the world. And it plans to do so within the next two years.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Rush to ban petrol cars in NZ “premature” says association

The Motor Industry Association (MIA) has fired in its rebuttal to the New Zealand Government’s emissions reduction plan discussion document.

// 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

// Seven Mazda models recalled over fuel pump issue

Seven different models have been implicated in a recall notice issued by Mazda concerning a low-pressure fuel pump issue that can lead to vehicles stalling.

// Acura to lead Honda’s push into EVs

Acura has confirmed it will bypass the hybrid generation and push ahead into EVs, leading Honda’s overall development of the technology.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Urus turns four, Lamborghini gets all the presents

Last weekend saw the fourth anniversary of Lamborghini launching the Urus “Super SUV”, a vehicle that has boosted the Italian supercar manufacturer incredibly in the years since its launch.

// Meet Armstrong’s new CFO

Brian Fouhy takes on chief financial officer role at car company vacated by Troy Kennedy.

// NZ Post going electric with new Mercedes EV fleet

Late last week Mercedes-Benz’ local arm confirmed that four new electric vans are set to hit New Zealand in 2022; the EQV, eVito panel van, the eVito Tourer, and the eSprinter.

// Bringing some Christmas cheer to families in need

Automotive lender Go Car Finance and its dealer network have joined together to support the Bright Foundation deliver gifts with food parcels to primary school children and their families around Auckland.

// Benelli Leoncino 500 gets a bigger sib

Benelli has undertaken heart transplant surgery on its Leoncino, removing the 500 mill and installing the 754cc parallel twin in the standard to give it a new lease on life.

// Toyota taps BYD for new battery tech

Toyota is planning to launch a small electric sedan in China, and has turned to BYD for help with the batteries.

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).

8th December 20212021-12-08T03:15:16+13:00

7th December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Audi CEO says we need to stop extracting fossil-fuels from the planet

Whether you’re into it or not, car makers worldwide are all adapting for a greener future. This means, more and more brands are working towards becoming fully (or at least mostly) EV focused.

// 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

Lokal emissionsfreie Mobilität: Mercedes-Benz eSprinter fit für den urbanen Einsatz
Local zero-emissions mobility: Mercedes Benz eSprinter fit for urban life

// Electric van range roll-out

Mercedes-Bens Vans NZ is getting ready to offer all lines of its commercial van models with electric drive. Its also planning to add the first fully electric premium MPV from Mercedes-Benz to the existing line-up.

// Toyota set to build BYD-based electric sedan (with a catch)

Having only revealed its first fully electric car in production form a few weeks ago, it looks like Toyota intends to start pushing a little harder on the accelerator in terms of EV commitments.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Porsche’s latest Gran Turismo concept is a glimpse at its EV future

Porsche has revealed a new electric concept car for the seventh installment in the Gran Turismo video game series, and it offers a sneaky look into what the brand is considering for its upcoming EVs.

// Toyota has converted a GR Yaris to run on hydrogen

Toyota has been developing its hydrogen-powered combustion engine for a while now and, after racing it in Japan inside a modified Corolla, has given the high-performance GR Yaris the hydrogen treatment.

// Armstrong appoints CFO

Armstrongs, one of the largest privately-owned groups of automotive brands in the country, has announced that Brian Fouhy has been appointed as its new chief financial officer.

// Is Australia starting to get serious about EVs?

Australian drivers could save as much as AU$12,000 (NZ$12,441) on owning an electric car under a new opposition party plan to cut emissions.

// Hub of the matter

Toyota New Zealand has launched an online electrification hub, with the aim of helping customers and potential buyers better understand its journey towards an electrified future.

// Opinion: The road funding dilemma

That’s right, all the money has been diverted to rail and cycleways, and the roading projects that were started by National have been cancelled unless they were past the point of no return.

// Tesla Cyberquad for kids debuts just on time for Christmas

Stuck on what to get the kids for Christmas? How about their very own Tesla! The upcoming Cybertruck may have been delayed until 2022, but the Cyberquad has made its debut on schedule, although it has come in a slightly different form.

// Aznom launches its mega-SUV in the Middle East and reveals new cars

You might know the name Aznom Automotive if you are a fan of massive American pick-up-based fastback luxury limousines. Yes, that is a thing.

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).

7th December 20212021-12-07T03:03:21+13:00

6th December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Ranger retains top-spot in November sales

The Ford Ranger has retained its status as New Zealand’s best-selling new vehicle (1538) in November 2021 followed by the Mitsubishi Outlander (1017) and the Toyota Corolla (734)

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota lays out path to European CO2 neutrality by 2035

Toyota Motor Europe (TME) has laid out the path it will follow to have 100% CO2 reduction in all new vehicle sales in Western Europe by 2035.

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

// Toyota continues to tease GR Corolla hot hatch, set to get GR Yaris engine

Regular readers will recall that just a few weeks ago it was discovered that Toyotas North American arm was dropping teasers for the upcoming GR Corolla on Instagram.

// Dealerships operating under the red traffic light framework

Under the new COVID-19 Protection Framework, colloquially known as the traffic light system, retailers such as car dealerships can open for business without requiring the use of vaccination passes under the red phase which began at 11.59 pm on December 2.

// Report claims Jaguar won’t release any new cars until 2025

2025 is going to be a significant year for Jaguar. The British marque has earmarked the year as when it will switch to selling only pure electric vehicles, in its bid to get a jump on other premium brands in the electrification race.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Polestar planning on ten-fold sales growth by 2025

The Scandinavian electric performance brand Polestar is planning to grow global sales of around 29,000 in 2021 by ten-fold to more than 290,000 sales by 2025.

// Tesla officially moves headquarters from California to Texas

Tesla says it has officially moved its corporate headquarters from Silicon Valley to a large factory under construction outside of Austin, Texas.

// The Good Oil: a real Buzz around Volkswagen’s electric Kombi

Its becoming a bit of a tradition at major Volkswagen media presentations for the company to finish up presenting its big new thing by giving a quick glimpse of the next big new thing.

// Australian dealers watch sales dive 15% in November

Australian new car dealers have watched their combined November 2021 sales fall 15.3% from the previous corresponding period to 80,638 units,

// GREEN SPECIAL: Emissions-free M

The all-new BMW i4 will launch in New Zealand in the first quarter of next year with two variants the i4 eDrive40 ($109,900) and the first-ever emissions-free BMW M car the i4 M50 ($137,900).

// Tesla is now selling Cyberquad EVs for kids

Being a Tesla owner is no longer a privilege reserved for adults. As pointed out by The Verge, the auto manufacturer has officially begun selling a Cyberquad ATV intended for kids.

// Brabus is building its first motorbike

Brabus, the tuning company best known for fettling with Mercedes-Benz cars, is turning its attention to motorcycles. A trademark application from August 2021 showed the firm applied for the Brabus 1300 R name for motorcycles;

// ACCESSORIES: Serving up a tray of accessories

Whether they’re for work or play, utes are all about accessories. New Zealand company Utemaster has a unique purpose-built canopy that can now be complemented by a rather innovative shelving system.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Want to work for an award-winning dealership in sunny Nelson?

  • Want a great team environment?
  • Want to work in a dealership that is growing?

If it’s a yes to these and you are an experienced sales person that can prove your sales volumes, GP and customer service skill set, then let us know you’re interested in making the change.

We sell brand new and late model pre-owned vehicles; we have two workshops and a humming parts department. We love our customers so a high level of service to them is required.

If you want to seize this opportunity to live in a region that offers great weather, beaches, walks and biking and work in a dealership that is progressive, fun and successful – we want to chat.

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).

6th December 20212021-12-06T05:57:55+13:00

3rd December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Volkswagen’s race-ready ‘R’ range confirmed for New Zealand

For a long time, Volkswagen’s Golf was the only model in the line-up to wear the R badge, but come 2022, it’s going to be a lot more common across the range, and we’re here for it.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// One last fling: Aston Martin teases V12 Vantage Final Edition

As Aston Martin hurtles towards going almost entirely electric by 2030, its started teasing yet another likely last hurrah model; the Vantage V12.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New concept EV by Mercedes is an interesting off-road coupe

Following the unfortunate passing of fashion designer, Virgil Abloh, Mercedes has released a new concept car: Project Maybach.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// MG NZ announces revised pricing across its full line-up

Following its big Accelerate Together virtual event last week, where it confirmed drive-away pricing in and a standard seven-year warranty for New Zealand customers, MG has announced tweaked pricing for its full Kiwi line-up.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New car sales soar 40%

A total of 11,242 new cars were registered last month, which was up a whopping 40 per cent from the 8,029 sold in November 2020.

// 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

// Lexus’ first-ever plug-in hybrid is nearly here

Lexus New Zealand has confirmed the local NX SUV range, featuring the plug-in hybrid version as its range-topper, is nearly here.

// ‘Tougher path’ to recovery

The New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) is warning of a tougher path to economic recovery following the emergence of the new Covid variant omicron.

// BMW complimentary Wallbox for iX3, iX and i4 EVs

A complimentary BMW Wallbox charging unit is offered to customers of new BMW electric models – the BMW iX3, iX and i4, while $800 is contributed towards installation when customers finance their BMW i vehicle through BMW Financial Services.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Electric Mercedes-Benz van quartet confirmed for NZ

The plug-in commercial van space is set to get a few new contenders in 2022, with Mercedes-Benz today announcing that the EQV, eVito panel van, eVito Tourer, and eSprinter are coming to its New Zealand line-up.

// Waka Kotahi renews contract with Unisys

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency has awarded a new 10-year contract to global IT firm Unisys Corporation for systems processing of around 25 million drivers licences and 60 million motor vehicle transactions per year.

// NZ Post to pilot all-electric Mercedes-Benz vans

NZ Post will evaluate a combination of fully electric Mercedes-Benz eSprinter and eVito delivery vans in its fleet in early 2022 prior to a full market launch later in the year.

// Motor trade gets behind voluntary safety rating label

VIA, the industry body for the used import trade, and dealer management system software provider Motorcentral are supporting vehicle safety rating labels which aim to help car buyers make potentially life-saving choices when purchasing their next vehicle.

// New auto centre pops up

The AA is celebrating the opening of a new Auto Centre in Whakatane, the 40th such centre in the country and the third in the Bay of Plenty region.

// 50 billion dollars: VW reveals the cost of EV battery development

If you’re stuck wondering why a lot of legacy car manufacturers have taken longer than others to develop an electric car, one of the most obvious reasons in most cases is costs.

// MotoGP looks to a clean and green racing future

Its the end of the 2021 MotoGP season so the officials are looking to the future, and they have decided to follow Formula 1s decision to switch to the use of sustainable fuels.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

ADDED THIS WEEK

HONDA

  • 2.9% Finance available on any new Next Generation Honda Jazz

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).

3rd December 20212021-12-03T00:03:03+13:00

2nd December 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Ralliart’s heroic return is just a few Triton and Pajero sticker packs

Back in September Mitsubishi confirmed news that had motoring enthusiasts salivating; it was going to reboot its Ralliart performance sub-brand…

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// BMW debuts plug-in SUV packing plenty of power

BMW has revealed its upcoming range-topping SUV in concept form, called the XM. As that second letter might indicate, this is a seriously powerful machine.

// More on this

HOT TOPIC

// High demand for SUV

All-new Sportage sees uptake boosted by introductory price offer.

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HOT TOPIC

// Consumer credit law changes effective December 1

A further suite of changes to consumer credit laws become effective on December 1, 2021 according the New Zealand Commerce Commission.

// 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

// Lexus NX450h+ PHEV due Q2 2022

The Lexus NX450h+ SUV range includes the first Lexus plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) arriving in the second quarter of next year, the AWD F Sport 2.5P PHEV priced from $107,900.

// Auckland transport emissions need 64% cut

“All levers across transport and a range of other sectors will need to be pulled as hard as they can be within the timeframe available,” warns the Auckland Council Environment and Climate Change Committee

// Mercedes, Stellantis to work with US firm on new batteries

Automakers Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis announced agreements with U.S. company Factorial Energy on Tuesday to help develop solid-state battery technology that they hope could make electric cars more attractive to a mass market.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Four go-faster Volkswagen R models heading to Kiwi showrooms

Volkswagen’s local arm has confirmed that not one, not two, but four hotted up R models are set to join…

// ‘Massive’ orders for the 5000 Tritons

Mitsubishi says there’s been unprecedented demand for the 5000 Tritons it has ordered to go on sale before the ute tax comes into effect early next year.

// Rush for licences looms

Plea for patience as company tackles backlog of 22,000 driving licence tests.

// GMSV fleet heads to the mountain

GMSV has set off for the Bathurst 1000 from its Port Melbourne head office with a full model portfolio to display to the audience coming to the ‘Great Race’.

// Company gains compliance approval

Transport agency grants i4 checkpoint Ltd approval for used light entry certification.

// Toyota say the bZ4X is just the beginning

Toyota say the bZ4X is just the beginning of what will be a major electric vehicle push that will see the automaker introduce 15 dedicated BEVs by 2025.

// Dealer numbers climbing

Last month’s increase delivers back-to-back rises for register.

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).

2nd December 20212021-12-01T20:21:16+13:00
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