NZ Automotive Industry News

4th November 2021

IT’S STAT WEEK

// New vehicle sales volume hamstrung by constrained supply chain

The Motor Industry Association (MIA) says October is traditionally a strong month for new vehicle sales and while ahead of the same period 2020 they were well behind October returns in each of the years from 2016 to 2019 inclusive.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota puts parts for the iconic AE86 Corolla in production again

While it’s a car that most people wouldn’t even notice driving down the street, Toyota’s AE86 Corolla is something of a cult symbol amongst car tuners these days, thanks to its appearance in ‘Initial D’.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// GALLERY: The good, the bad, and the ugly from SEMA 2021

After Covid-19 put last years edition of the annual SEMA motor show on ice, the Las Vegas event made its triumphant return this month.

// 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

// Luxo-barge fans rejoice: Audi unveils new A8 and S8

Fetch the cigars and book the chateau; Audi has unveiled its new-look benchmark A8 sedan in three different trims.

// Judge takes pity on unregistered motor vehicle trader

A Timaru district court judge has taken pity on an unregistered trader who ignored compliance letters sent to him by the Registrar of Motor Vehicle Traders and illegally sold 38 motor vehicles between 2017 and 2020.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Keen to turn your Suzuki Jimny into a $105,000 monster truck?

The Suzuki Jimnys success is a result of it being the right vehicle at the right time; launching just as adventure tuning was picking up pace, at a cheap price,

// Tesla stock drops reported US$40 billion in market value after a single tweet from Elon Musk

Elon Musk is one of the most influential people on Twitter for a reason. So when Musk shared Monday night that Tesla currently has no contract signed with Hertz, …

// ‘Record volumes and margins’

Tourism Holdings Ltd (THL) has plenty of headroom to buy about 2,500 vehicles with ANZ and Westpac committing about $200 million in lending.

// The Hyundai Ioniq 5 battery pack is apparently getting an upgrade

Reportedly, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is gearing up for an update. This comes less than a year after the car arrived in select markets.

// Polestar CEO slams petrol-powered hypocrisy in the automotive industry

The global boss of Volvos Polestar electric spin-off has hit out at hypocrisy within the car industry as manufacturers move toward greener cars while still catering to petrol heads.

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).

4th November 20212021-11-03T20:26:06+13:00

3rd November 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Ford confirms reveal date for all-new Ranger

Its official; the much anticipated all-new Ford Ranger will be revealed later this month on November 24, with the blue oval confirming overnight that it will show off its new pick-up via an online live stream.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Kia confirms new Sportage pricing

Kia has confirmed pricing for the new Sportage line-up, due to launch early in 2022. The next-generation Sportage will start with an introductory offer of $34,990 for the LX Urban, a 2.0-litre front-wheel drive base model.

// 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

// Wagons get hybrid systems

Skoda NZ is launching two Octavia iV plug-in hybrids in November with both qualifying for the governments clean car discount.
The iV Style station wagon is equipped with a 110kW and 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine.

// SK targets solid state EV battery technology ahead of rivals

SK Innovation Co. plans to get two years or more ahead of its rivals and deliver solid-state batteries by 2025, according to the head of battery research at the South Korean company, which released results Friday showing a jump in sales last quarter.

// Registrations show solid October for new market

New vehicle registrations were strong again in October, with both passenger and commercial well ahead of last years totals. For passenger vehicles, registrations were up by 11.6% for the month to 9260 units from 8296 in 2020.

IN OTHER NEWS

// World’s first ‘Ultracar’ revealed as $20 million ‘Chaos’

When cars first started to get fast, the term ‘supercar’ was coined, then when they got even faster, people started to call these machines ‘hypercars’, and now it seems that we’ve moved on to the ‘Ultracar’.

// Auckland Lamborghini dealer taking Movember bull run by the horns

Due to COVID-19 restrictions Lamborghini Auckland has cancelled the in-person Movember Bull Run event but will host a different fundraising initiative in its premises on November 6 for the global mens health charity.

// Auckland car dealers set to finally reopen their doors

With yesterdays confirmation of Auckland moving in principle to move into Alert Level 3.2 next week, car dealerships across Auckland and Waikato will be breathing a sigh of relief at the notion of being able to finally open up their doors for business.

// Quartermaine joins Enterprise Hamilton as sales manager

Former Community Finance Services (CFS) relationship manager Josh Quartermaine has been appointed as the new sales manager for Enterprise Motor Group Hamilton.

// EV registrations continue rising

October EV registrations are 1053 up on September (32,781 to 33,834) as EV sales still surge in spite of COVID-19 restrictions, semiconductor shortages and supply constraints.

// China’s electric car sales war is being waged inside the cabin

Around lunchtime at an Xpeng showroom in Beijing last month, a man in a three-piece suit strolled inside and straight past rows of the company’s sleek P7 and P5 electric sedans.

// Ford unveils Bronco DR, a 5.0-litre V8 4×4 beast you can buy

Car manufacturers love to dangle concept car carrots in front of their fans, in the hope that those cars can rouse interest in the brand.

// Holden’s former proving grounds is up for sale… again

The top-secret Lang Lang testing site in rural Victoria, which is formerly Holden’s proving grounds, is up for sale yet again. The grounds was used for almost every single Holden model built between 1958 and 2020, when the brand retired.

// Is it a plane, is it a bird?

Flying cars have been in the wings for some time now, proving a nightmare for rule makers at civil aviation authorities. Adding to their angst will be the latest reveal.of a hoverbike, dubbed XTurismo Limited Edition.

// Agency model shift reflected in strong sales says Toyota

Toyota New Zealand says the shift to an agency model has been rewarded with increased sales in spite of the current constricted supply chain.

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).

3rd November 20212021-11-02T22:08:29+13:00

2nd November 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Dealers set to emerge from lockdown

Dealers across Auckland and Waikato are looking forward to reopening their showrooms and yards to customers after the government announced an easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

// 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

// VW Group working to create a breakthrough in wireless charging design

Volkswagen Group of America’s Innovation Hub Knoxville, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, are working together to “explore how to integrate breakthroughs in material science and recycling concepts to support electric mobility and sustainable transportation.” Their first collaborative project is to find a better way to recharge EVs wirelessly.

// Consultation snub over clean cars

The Motor Industry Association (MIA) is calling on the Ministry of Transport (MoT) to rethink its approach after learning the government will not be consulting on its draft regulations for the clean car discount.

// Hyundai, Kia confirm they’re diving into the world of solid state batteries

Solid state battery technology development is set to be one of the big talking points in cars over the next few years, as brands attempt to crack the code on a field that will further revolutionise EVs.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Shelby reveals its first electric car, a modded Mustang Mach-E

With Ford seemingly embracing electrification with open arms, its only a matter of time before its iconic tuning arm Shelby gets in on the action in some form.

// E-aircraft costs $2 to cross Cook Strait

ElectricAir founder Gary Freedman successfully made the first electric aircraft flight across Cook Strait on November 1, saying the fuel cost was just $2.

// Trade up despite port delays

Port of Tauranga has reported a 6.9 per cent increase in total trade to 6.8 million tonnes in the first quarter of the 2022 financial year.

// Ghost gets the Black Badge treatment

Rolls-Royce calls its Black Badge edition cars which debuted in 2016, darker in aesthetic, more urgent in personality and dramatic in material treatment.

// Dealer numbers arrest slump

The number of dealers in New Zealand edged up to 3,046 at the end of October, according to figures released by the Motor Vehicle Traders Register (MVTR).

// The Electric Road to COP26

EV drivers from Europe and the United Kingdom are on The Electric Road to COP26 the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow from November 1-12.

// AMG SL gets AWD and soft top

Mercedes-Benzs new AMG SL roadster gets all-wheel drive and is set to hit the New Zealand market in the second half of next year.

// Toyota boss’ clean car warning

Toyota NZ is planning for the bZ4X to arrive on our shores at the end of 2022. Chief executive Neeraj Lala says the model, part of the parent companys battery electric vehicle (BEV) series, is a step towards its low-carbon objectives.

// Auckland Transport showcases zero-emission buses at COP26

Auckland Transports zero-emission bus fleet features in a virtual exhibition at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow, November 1-12.

// Big jump in emissions cuts

New Zealand will significantly increase its contribution to the global effort to tackle climate change by pledging to reduce net greenhouse emissions (GHGs) by 50 per cent by 2030.

// 50% less emissions by 2030: NZ Govt ups environmental pledge

In the build-up to this weeks United Nations climate conference in Glasgow, prime minister Jacinda Ardern and climate change minister James Shaw have confirmed a new national emissions target for the end of the decade.

// Opinion: Sydney Allard’s brain explosion

He specialised in building lightweight sports and racing cars powered by flathead Ford V8 engines. When he wanted them to go faster he inserted Lincoln V12s.

// Cupra used the help from race car drivers in the development of its all-electric Born

Cupra is using the help from race car drivers Mattias Ekstrm and Jordi Gen in the development of its all-electric Born. The drivers are helping Cupra to ensure that the car is practical for every driver,

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 November 20212021-11-01T21:19:29+13:00

1st November 2021

PRIZE DRAW

// Here’s your Xmas bonus

It’s been a big first year for The Full Brief, so here’s a big Xmas Giveaway. Driving this 536 horsepower V8 beast around Pukekohe or Manfeild circuit is an experience you won’t forget in a hurry! Watch the promo video

To go in the draw just get one of your mates on the dealership to subscribe (as long as they’re interested) and you’ll both go in the draw. Use the tools at the bottom of any email to send them your special link, or if you’re not super technical, just show them how to sign up, and email me once they’ve done it. You’ll get one entry into the draw for each person you refer between 1st Nov and the draw on 20th Dec 2021.

Honestly, I’m betting only about 50 of you will do this, so your odds on winning are pretty good!

HOT TOPIC

// New Outlander PHEV boldly strides forward

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has unveiled online its fully redesigned plug-In hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of the Outlander SUV.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota unveils fully electric bZ4X in real, production-car form

Having shown it off in concept form in April, Toyota has now revealed the production version of its first fully electric vehicle; the bZ4X.

// More on this

HOT TOPIC

// Mercedes-AMG reveals stunning new V8-powered SL roadster

It seems that the days of the petrol-powered sports cars are almost numbered, but Mercedes-AMG’s latest unveiling proves a strong point as to why we shouldn’t bid farewell just yet.

// 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

// Land Rover Defender to get five-metre 130 version

A new Land Rover Defender is coming. Its not an EV, nor a hybrid its the 130 version that slots above the two-door 90 and four-door 110.

// VW and Stellantis share chip optimism with U.S. peers

Europe’s biggest automakers – Volkswagen and Stellantis – joined US competitors in voicing optimism that the severe semiconductor shortage decimating production may have peaked.

IN OTHER NEWS

// An ultra-lightweight EV and a flying car?

A new Indian electric vehicle maker has announced plans to produce the lightest EV ever, weighing a claimed 738kg, while a Chinese startup has also revealed its for-the-masses flying car.

// The Good Oil: My little Pony modification

Focus too hard on something and you eventually start spinning around in circles. Case in point is Hyundai with its all-singing new-generation Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), Ioniq 5.

// “An avalanche” of electric Toyotas heading NZ’s way

Toyotas new bZ4X EV has already been confirmed for the New Zealand market, with a late-2022 launch on the cards. But, its only the start.

// GREEN SPECIAL: Demystifying the EV dashboard

The transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs) isnt just about what powers a vehicle. Its also an opportunity for carmakers to rethink every aspect of occupant interaction with the car especially the dashboard and operating systems.

// Buying cars from overseas online: hit Return, select Drive

Supply of new and near-new vehicles in New Zealand has been severely affected by Covid-19 (and the related semi-conductor crisis in the case of the former).

// Funding deadline looms

The first two funding rounds of the new-look Low Emission Transport Fund (LETF) close on November 3. The aim of round one is to provide co-funding for low-emissions vehicles and transport technology.

// Ford, GM profits fall as sales drop due to chip shortage

The global computer chip shortage cut into third-quarter profits at both Ford and crosstown rival General Motors, with both companies having to temporarily close factories, pinching supplies on dealer lots.

// Watch: Farewelling New Zealand’s cheapest new car

Though it wasn’t the fastest, or the best-looking car on sale, the Suzuki Celerio became an icon in the automotive industry as it was the cheapest new car on sale.

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).

1st November 20212021-10-31T22:45:16+13:00

29th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Renault’s new Master Minibus arrives

Renault NZ is launching the new 12-seater Renault Master Minibus with the availability of a single long wheel base model.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Mainstream manufacturers set the bar for EV safety

Most EVs tested throughout 2021 have achieved top Euro NCAP ratings. These include the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq 5 which each received five-stars.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Drive away within hour

A company has brought in a 60-minute commitment to have peoples cars ready to drive away. Armstrongs has developed the initiative to decrease the time taken to get into a vehicle …

// 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 EV6 is 2022 German Premium Car of the Year

The electric Kia EV6, expected in New Zealand early next year, has won the Premium category and is ranked second in New Energy in the German Car of the Year awards.

// Alloy shortage and bugs are the latest threats to local car industry

Having already been knobbled by a virus and then a chip shortage, vehicle importers are now steeling to beat a bug and wondering how bad an aluminium sourcing crisis might become.

// 127 EVs to be added to state sector fleet

Further funding will allow 127 more EVs to be added to the state sector fleet (now with nearly 600 EVs), along with associated charging infrastructure.

IN OTHER NEWS

// SPI Energy’s EdisonFuture debuts all-electric ute with solar panels on its roof

With a future that looks all-electric in the automotive industry, its a race for brands and startups alike to build an electric ute that’s as utilitarian as the petrol alternative, but comes with all the advantages that an electric motor can provide.

// Hertz teams with Uber, Carvana in major shift to electric cars

Hertz Global Holdings, fresh off a blockbuster order for 100,000 Teslas, reached an exclusive agreement to supply Uber drivers with electric vehicles and signed up Carvana Co. to dispose of rental cars it no longer wants.

// Electric Island Waiheke February events delayed

The Weekend of Wow the Energy Resilience Home Tour, the EV Pride Rally and the EV Expo initially planned for February 19-20 next year, has been deferred on Auckland’s Waiheke Island again because of uncertainties around COVID-19.

// EV imports hit record $53m

The value of electric vehicle (EV) imports hit a record high last month when $53 million worth of such cars crossed our borders, according to new figures from Stats NZ.

// Volta Trucks’ Europe site search

Volta Trucks is seeking potential locations for its Truck as a Service pre-sales and aftersales facilities across Europe during the electric commercial vehicle manufacturer and services providers next expansion phase.

// Michelangelo with Mazda

Mazda New Zealand’s support of the arts continues with its sponsorship of the Michelangelo A Different View exhibition in Auckland.

// The latest Range Rover could get a hydrogen-powered option

The next-generation Range Rover has been revealed, and Land Rover has confirmed that it could eventually get a hydrogen fuel-cell version to go along with battery-electric options.

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).

29th October 20212021-10-28T21:28:47+13:00

28th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// New Range Rover design didn’t need to be a revolution, says CEO

There are plenty of big stories around this mornings 2022 Range Rover reveal, including the new platform, the lure of a fully electric version down the line, seven seats for the first time, and the luxury fixtures within.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New director for Turners

Quaintance, pictured, is an award-winning journalist and media executive turned entrepreneur and content marketer.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 revealed as America’s latest supercar

Though Chevrolet had already “leaked” images of the all-new Corvette Z06, the high-performance variant of the mid-engined supercar was recently unveiled at a livestream event.

// 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

// Armstrong’s launches ‘60-minute commitment’ to vehicle buyers

Multi-franchise car dealership group Armstrongs has developed a solution which is designed to decrease the time taken to get into a new or used vehicle.

// Video: Bringing Dealer-to-Dealer Trading Online

Autotalk managing editor Richard Edwards spoke to Dealer Hub founders James McComb and Mike Harvey about how their new national dealer-to-dealer-only online trading platform will create better efficiency and more profit for the used car trade.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Honda reveals Civic Si touring cars (and one awesome wagon) for SEMA

Last week it was Fords turn, and today its Honda thats unveiled its grand assortment of modified metal for next months SEMA car show in Las Vegas on November 2-5.

// ComCom weighs up EROAD’s proposed Coretex acquisition

The NZ Commerce Commission is raising potential competition concerns around EROADs proposed acquisition of telematics company Coretex.

// New EV fuses introduced Power management company

Eatons eMobility business has introduced the EVK Series, a new line of Bussmann high-voltage fuses which meet requirements for use in the latest high-powered electrified vehicles with ratings up to 1000 volts of direct current (VDC) and 600 amps.

// SAIC selects Here for MG connected vehicle services

Location data and technology company Here Technologies will power the connected in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems of MG cars across the globe for SAIC Motor, Chinas largest automaker.

// Regulator raises merger concerns

The Commerce Commission has identified potential competition issues with a planned merger between Eroad Ltd and Coretex Ltd and is seeking more information before making a final decision on the deal.

// US agency wants Tesla to limit where Autopilot can operate

The head of the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board is calling on Tesla to act on recommendations to limit where its Autopilot driver-assist system can operate and to put a system in place to make sure drivers are paying attention.

// Mazda MX-5 to escape the plug for another few years

Mazda is hard at work on the upcoming NE generation of MX-5 and while it wouldnt be too surprising to see the little sports car swap an exhaust system for more cabling and a plug, it seems Mazda isnt giving in to battery power just yet.

// How Tesla’s massive Hertz deal should make the brand’s EVs cheaper

Teslas mega deal with Hertz has widened the gap between the US car maker and the rest of the industry.The order for 100,000 cars is the single biggest order of electric cars to date and could be worth as much as $US4.4 billion ($5.9b) to Tesla, according to reports.

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).

28th October 20212021-10-27T19:22:06+13:00

27th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Video: Tesla’s tops

Tesla has exceeded a public market valuation of US$1 trillion (NZ$1.4 trillion) after adding more than US$100 billion (NZ$139.5b) to its market capitalisation in one day

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Mazda MX-5 sticking with petrol power for next-generation

It’s common practice these days for car brands to announce they’re ditching internal combustion engines for electric power.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Jemima’s wish delivers $700k for research

A car dealer says his daughter would have been pretty mind-blown by the generosity of people after her fundraising campaign has collected about $700,000 for vital medical research.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Car industry could soon face “catastrophic” magnesium shortage

Much has been made of the semiconductor shortage thats crippled the motoring industry over the last 12 months or so, but things could soon get even worse.

// 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

// Ford takes next-generation Ranger testing to extremes

Ford Australias development engineers are subjecting the next-generation Ranger to more physical and virtual testing than ever before.

// Toyota looking to partner up for reborn MR2

Toyota is reportedly gearing up to bring back the MR2 mid-engined sports car, but it doesnt want to go alone.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Focus on hybrid powertrain

Ford has revealed the new Focus, which boasts a new design and fuel-efficient electrified powertrain alongside advanced connectivity and driver-assistance technologies.

// Hamilton EV has new location and showroom

Hamilton Electric Vehicles dealer principal Nicholas Down is delighted with the dealerships new site and showroom on one of Hamiltons busiest sites.

// Lamborghini continues to set sales records amid motoring world chaos

Most of the worlds car-makers are currently in a perpetual state of crisis, battling supply problems related to both the global semiconductor shortage and the Covid-19 pandemic.

// EV transport service to be trialled in South Auckland

An electric on-demand rideshare service will be trialled in Conifer Grove, Takaanini, and Papakura from October 31.

// NZTA pledges to lower its carbon footprint

The Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency has announced that it plans to reduce the size of its carbon footprint created by its construction projects, specifically those on the New Zealand Upgrade Programme.

// Polestar releases new global brand campaign

Polestar has released a new global brand campaign featuring former US astronaut Dr Karen Nyberg and her reflections on earth from space known as the overview effect.

// Kiwi EV transition solution wins international award

Wellington-based Critchlow Geospatials SwitchMyFleet solution to transition fleets to EVs has won the Location-Based Services category at the prestigious Geospatial World Innovation Awards 2021 in Amsterdam.

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).

27th October 20212021-10-26T22:33:07+13:00

26th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Dealers to open at all levels of new Covid strategy

Dealerships and automotive businesses will be able to fully open once district health boards achieve double-dose vaccination for 90 per cent of their eligible populations.

// 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

// Luxo ute: GMC debuts full-size Sierra 1500 flagship

While most news concerning Americas full-size pick-up segment is largely irrelevant to New Zealand eyes, with the Ram 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado now available locally its curious to keep tabs on the market and its players.

// GREEN SPECIAL: Layers of sound in the latest EVs

The absence of powertrain noise is one of the many things that sets the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) driving experience apart from that of an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) car. Many drivers love it.

// Ford: New Ranger designed “to deliver years of dependable service”

Fords continual drip-feed of new information on the all-new Ranger ute continued overnight, with the release of more images showing the popular nameplate being torture tested overseas.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Designer of the original Lamborghini Countach doesn’t like the new one

In a scintillating press release issued this week, the designer of the original Lamborghini Countach, Marcello Gandini, has sought to distance himself from the recently revealed Countach rebirth.

// Watch: Tesla’s latest ‘Full Self Driving’ 10.2 update still not perfect

Teslas latest update to its Full Self Driving (FSD) beta software came with arguably more anticipation than before. Along with CEO Elon Musk talking up 10.2 on Twitter, it came after the tech firm drafted a safety score system that would rate drivers ability based on somewhat debatable parameters.

// Japanese carmakers plan to cut production by 1.3 million units

Japanese automakers expect production to be down by at least 1.3 million units in fiscal 2021 due to the global semiconductor shortage and the covid-19 pandemic in Southeast Asia, according to eight major manufacturers.

// The coming EV disruption that nobody’s talking about

An acrid smell hangs in the air at Trenton Forging Co. on the outskirts of Detroit as a 4,500 pound hammer slams a bar of red hot steel with enough force to shake the building.

// Deposits paid sight unseen

Consumer demand has been high for the next-generation Range Rover even though its price, launch date, images and specifications have yet to be announced.

// Tesla crash probe finds driver at wheel, muting autopilot worry

The Texas man who died last April when his Tesla slammed into a tree and burst into flames was behind the wheel and applying the accelerator in the moments before the impact, US federal accident investigators have said.

// Shots fired in the agency battle between dealers and manufacturers

The professional bodies which represent the international car manufacturers and the new car dealers in Australia have fired shots at each other about legal action over agency agreements between Mercedes-Benz and members of its Australian dealer network.

// Rare, mint-condition Renault Clio V6 to set auction records

A Renault Clio V6 Phase 2 showing just 980 miles (1577km) on the clock is about to go to auction in the UK, where it is expected to break records.

// More resurgence financial support for Auckland businesses as vaccine target announced

Finance Minister Grant Robertson says the governments resurgence support package will substantially increase for qualifying businesses and will move to fortnightly rather than three-weekly payments to better assist the recipients.

// SsangYong finally finds a buyer

After nearly a year of bankruptcy, South Korean manufacturer, SsangYong, has found a buyer. According to Nikkei Asia, Edison Motors is currently the preferred bidder, with the deal worth around US$260 million (NZ$363.5 million).

// Modifying your bike might soon be illegal in the UK

A new proposal from the UKs Department for Transport suggests banning modifying or customising a motorcycles exhaust system in order to reduce emissions.

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).

26th October 20212021-10-25T19:49:25+13:00

22nd October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// First look: 2022 Range Rover leaked (yes, this is the new one)

Overnight, Land Rover splashed announcements all over social media that it would be revealing its new 2022 Range Rover on October 26.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Limited run for Mustangs

Consumers keen to get their hands on a Mustang GT RTR Series Two car are encouraged to act fast with only a limited number being made available for the New Zealand market.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Tesla Cybertruck spotted with wing mirrors and wipers

The Cybertruck was introduced by Tesla almost 2 years ago, but the company recently announced it’s been delayed until 2022.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// NZ Ministry of Transport says it’s keen to ban petrol cars

Earlier this month the New Zealand Government unveiled its Te hau marohi ki anamata Transitioning to a low-emissions and climate-resilient future consultation document;

// 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

// Ford now making the Mustang Mach-E in China

Ford has produced its first Mustang in China, with the first of its fully electric Mach-Es rolling off the production line of its joint-owned Changan factory earlier this week and first deliveries scheduled later this year.

// Saved by the bell: SsangYong finally set to secure new owners

After a tumultuous extended period where it had to find new owners, it appears that carmaker SsangYong has done just that.

// New Outlander PHEV due here next year

Orders have opened for the new Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in hybrid expected early in 2022.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Porsche officially confirms 718 Cayman GT4 RS

Porsche has confirmed the 718 Cayman GT4 will be upgraded to RS specification, with the full reveal set for November.

// SEA Electric gets 1150 truck order

The largest order in SEA Electrics history will provide 1150 SEA Hino M5 EVs for US company GATR EV (a division of GATR Truck Centres).

// Annual meetings go digital

Heartland Group and Marsden Maritime Holdings Ltd (MMH) have announced their upcoming annual meetings will now be held online only because of the Covid-19 alert level settings affecting the country.

// A car that looks like a WiFi router?

The bizarre United Nude Lo-Res Car is here to show you what a Lamborghini Countach looks like in very low resolution.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// UPDATED Current National New Car Deals

REMOVED THIS WEEK

Haval

  • H6 PREMIUM FROM $31,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • UTE CANNON-L 4X2 AUTO FROM $36,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC

ADDED THIS WEEK

Haval

  • H6 PREMIUM FROM $32,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • UTE CANNON-L 4X2 AUTO FROM $37,490 SRRP INC GST + ORC

Suzuki

  • $699 3 Year Service Plan

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).

22nd October 20212021-10-21T21:05:45+13:00

21st October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Strong Kiwi demand for Hyundai Ioniq 5, 12-month wait for some

The all-new fully electric Hyundai Ioniq 5s introduction to New Zealand has been a tumultuous one, with numerous local launches thwarted by ongoing Covid-19 lockdown restrictions.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Ineos Grenadier off-road SUV confirmed with hydrogen power

While Land Rover has mentioned that the Defender might get hydrogen power in the future, the British brand doesn’t look to be in any hurry to turn this idea into a reality.

// 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

// Two new electric Hyundais bound for New Zealand showrooms

Hyundai’s local plug-in line-up is set for further expansion, with the new Ioniq 6 and Ioniq 7 both pre-emptively confirmed for our market prior to their official respective reveals.

// Polestar releases P1.7 over-the-air (OTA) update

Polestar has begun incrementally rolling out it latest P1.7 over-the-air software for the Polestar 2 fastback in all global markets.

// Honda reveals hotted up 2022 Civic Si

Honda has revealed the first of its go-faster Civic variants; the 2022 Si. While this is a nameplate we havent seen on Kiwi shores for decades, its still worth diving into given that its seen as something of a Golf GTi fighter in the US.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Tesla tsunami probably not at peak

Expectation that even larger registration numbers are likely this month and next for the Tesla Model 3 is also whetting consumer appetite for a sister model with even better prospects.

// Official GM memorabilia and merchandise available online

General Motors Australia and New Zealand Aftersales has released details of a brand-new dedicated online store for customers to purchase official GM memorabilia and motorsport merchandise.

// ABB and ECL Group partner to accelerate NZ e-mobility

ABB and ECL Group plan significant EV charging infrastructure roll-out projects for key customers throughout New Zealand.

// New dealer boss for VW NZ

Volkswagen New Zealand has appointed Jason Jarvis as its new dealer development manager.

// ComCom in talks with energy and airports sectors

The Commerce Commission has published an overview of submissions from the energy and airport sectors on how it should organise its regulatory work programme to take account of emerging issues like New Zealands transition to a low-carbon economy and COVID-19s continuing impact.

// Soaring global demand for classic JDM performance cars

Classic 1990s era Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) performance cars such as the Nissan Skyline, Toyota Supra, Mazda RX-7 and Subaru WRX-STI are becoming yet more sought after by enthusiasts forcing higher prices at auction.

// Next-gen Ranger spotted out and about in Thailand

The next generation of Ford Ranger has been teased by Ford already, ahead of a launch later this year.

// Australian dealers taking Mercedes-Benz to Federal Court

More than 80% of the Australian Mercedes-Benz franchised dealer network has commenced an A$650 million legal action against Mercedes-Benz in the Federal Court of Australia.

// Cash rate set to rise further

The Reserve Bank is likely to raise the official cash rate (OCR) aggressively to get a handle on rampant inflation.

// Apple veteran wins Gates’s backing for EV battery startup

Amid a boom in electric-vehicle production and a race for innovations that improve these new cars’ range and cost, battery startup Our Next Energy (ONE) said Monday it has raised US$25 million in a fresh fundraising round.

// Further new CF Moto models arriving soon

Chinese bike maker CF Moto has a new distributor in Australia and New Zealand, Mojo Motorcycles and, as mentioned a month ago, is kicking things off with the new 700 CL-X Sport that costs $10,900 plus ORCs.

// Ford’s retractable tailpipe could make for better off-roading

Ford has been tackling the off-roading market as of late with the release of the retro-styled Bronco and off-road versions of its other models like the F-150 Tremor, Explorer Timberline, and the new F-150 Raptor.

// Electric vehicle advocacy group grows with new board members

As interest in electric vehicles increases locally, so too has the pulling power of the local lobby and advocacy groups designed to support the plug-in push.

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).

21st October 20212021-10-20T20:16:07+13:00
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