NZ Automotive Industry News

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

20th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Video: Foxconn introduces three EV prototypes

Foxconn has revealed three EV prototypes a sedan (Model E), SUV (Model C) and an electric bus (Model T) as it aims to develop an EV business reportedly worth about NZ$50.8 billion annually.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Drive Electric appoints two new board members

Kirsten Corson from Zilch and Carbn Group Holdings and Dennis Kelly from FleetPartners have been appointed to Drive Electrics board at its AGM.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// It’s raining EVs: Toyota, Ford, Stellantis all announce battery projects

Its been a big morning for electric vehicles with three of the motoring worlds biggest superpowers, Toyota, Ford, and Stellantis, all announcing more electrification investment plans almost in perfect unison.

// 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

// Maserati cans Grecale SUV launch date, delays it until 2022

Italian marque Maserati has confirmed overnight that it will delay the launch of its much anticipated new compact premium SUV, the Grecale, until next year.

// CCCFA – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

At Autosure we know legislation like the CCCFA can be difficult to understand. So we asked our legal partners Chapman Tripp to give us a simple explanation we can share with you, of what agents car dealers and brokers need to know.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Is Tata’s little Punch the world’s cutest SUV?

Tata has officially revealed the Punch, its first small SUV released for the Indian market.The Tata Punch’s styling was previewed last August, and incorporates the Impact 2.0 design language.

// Ineos launches hydrogen campaign

Ineos has doubled down on its two-billion euro (NZ$3.2b) investment in green hydrogen with the launch of a hydrogen advocacy campaign.

// Mercedes has released a cool new pilot subscription in Berlin

Mercedes has announced the release of a new pilot subscription service in Berlin.Customers will receive a vehicle, insurance, and incidentals for a flat fee, as well as a subscription to a Power 7 e-bike.

// Spending on cars climbs back

The motor vehicle industry saw the biggest percentage increase in retail card spending from August to September this year, with a climb of 24.9 per cent, or $30 million, according to Stats NZ.

// NZ’s first utility scale battery energy storage system planned

WEL Networks and Infratec intend building a $25 million 35MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) able to store wind and solar power to strengthen electricity supply for Waikato customers and benefit the national grid through its ability to help correct supply and demand imbalances.

// Royal Enfield takes on the ultimate challenge

Sir Ed did it on a tractor, and now Royal Enfield wants to do it on motorcycles.

// Awards honour top insurers

Tower Insurance has won Canstars inaugural Car Insurer of the Year Award as well as scooping a gong for outstanding value.

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).

20th October 20212021-10-19T21:50:41+13:00

19th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Watch: $5 million Gordon Murray T.50 makes screaming Goodwood debut

Widely known as one of the greatest supercars to ever exist, the McLaren F1 needs no introduction, but neither should Gordon Murray, the genius who penned the crazy machine.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// European market falls dramatically

Passenger car registrations in the European Union continued to fall in September, dropping to a 26-year low.

// More on this

HOT TOPIC

// Prototype Hydrogen Renault Master Van unveiled

The HYVIA joint venture between Renault Group and fuel cell manufacturer Plug Power has unveiled prototypes of a hydrogen-powered Master delivery van and a hydrogen refuelling station.

// 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

// Bugatti Centodieci almost ready for production

Bugatti debuted its Centodieci in 2019, but deliveries of the car won’t start to roll out until sometime next year.The supercar has completed its hot-water testing, and is almost ready for production.

// Webinar series on ERP

A series of webinars on the newly released consultation document to develop an Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP), including transport, has been launched by the Ministry for the Environment which is working with a range of central government agencies on it.

// Pony.ai OK for driverless tests on Beijing roads

Silicon Valley-based autonomous driving company Pony.ai has been authorised to hold driverless tests on Beijings public roads.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Mercedes-AMG One hypercar to go into production next year

A staggering four years have passed since Mercedes-AMG first revealed its Project One hypercar; a Formula 1 inspired and powered hybrid all-in hypercar that had journalists and track addicts salivating at the time.

// Toyota aims for 900k November production

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) is forecasting improved production in November at its Japanese plants due to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in Southeast Asia.

// Ford’s innovative ‘onboarding scales’ feature explained

The 2021 Ford F-150 has a feature called “Onboard Scales,” which weighs the ute’s trailer load to ensure you don’t go beyond its payload capacity.

// Mercedes-Benz eActros series production begins

Mercedes-Benz Trucks is celebrating the first series-production eActros to roll off the factory floor at the Wrth plantin Germany.

// Mevo offers free rides to vax appointments

Car share service Mevo is offering free rides to all existing and non-Mevo customers to allow them to attend first and second COVID-19 vaccination appointments.

// Mainfreight delivering with eCanters

Mainfreight has added two all-electric Fuso eCanters to its fleet which are taking part in Aucklands Zero Emissions Area (ZEA) trial.

// Kindness goes long way

Armstrongs is teaming up with Kindness Collective to bring cheer to children, families and whanau. A lot of people have been doing it tough, says Troy Kennedy, the chief executive of Armstrongs.

// Paving the way for sustainable mobility

BP has become the third shareholder of Digital Charging Solutions GmbH (DCS) with a 33.3% stake as part of a capital increase, joining other shareholders BMW Group and Daimler Mobility AG.

// Have say on emissions

The government has invited members of the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Associated (VIA) to attend online webinars on the development of the countrys first emissions reduction plan.

// Moke goes electric

Orders for the new electric Moke in right-hand or left-hand drive have opened with the aim to make all Mokes electric by January 1 next year and deliveries to start late 2022.

// Which car companies make the best seats?

It may not feel like it, but car seats have undergone a huge transformation over the decades.At one point exclusively made up of simple padded bench pews, seats these days come in all shapes and sizes.

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).

19th October 20212021-10-18T22:08:53+13:00

18th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// The WRX wagon is back! Subaru confirms WRX-GTB for NZ

After something of a hiatus, Subaru has revealed that its slapping the WRX nameplate back on a wagon, in the form of the WRX-GTB; GTB in this case standing for Grand Touring Boxer.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Refreshed Focus line-up arriving in mid-2022

Ford New Zealand will launch a facelifted three-model Focus range in mid-2022 with new hybrid powertrains and updated connectivity including its new Sync 4 system with a 13.2-inch screen.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// More electrified Škoda models arriving in November

Skoda New Zealand is launching two Octavia iV plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) in November, a 150kW Style station wagon and a 180kW RS station wagon.

// 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

// Mitsubishi reveals new Outlander PHEV (sort of)

After teasing its next-gen plug-in hybrid SUV over several months, Mitsubishi has revealed its new Outlander PHEV in all its glory. Ish.

// Lenders given tips on new rules

The Commerce Commission has held a series of in-person and online seminars around the changes being introduced to the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003 (CCCFA) from December.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Electric BMW iX3 to be priced from $114,900

Having debuted earlier this year, BMW has now revealed local pricing and spec for arguably its most critical plug-in vehicle; the iX3.

// Hyundai wants to make its own semiconductors

The Hyundai Motor Company has plans to develop and build its own semiconductors, in a move to reduce its reliance on chipmakers.

// Minister welcomes industry body’s ‘smart move’

The Minister of Transport has welcomed support from the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) for the governments clean car package, describing the decision as a smart move.

// Honda debuts three new electric concepts, but they’re all for China

Honda has revealed a bunch of edgy new electric concepts currently destined for China only.

// Watch: Manual transmission confirmed for new Acura Integra

Hondas American premium arm Acura has confirmed that its new Integra is going to be available with a six-speed manual, much to the elation of Honda anoraks worldwide.

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).

18th October 20212021-10-17T19:37:51+13:00

15th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Global reveal for all-new Lexus LX

Lexus has revealed its all-new flagship LX SUV to global markets becoming the second model of the next-generation range of Lexus following the NX.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// VIA backs government over clean cars

The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) has changed its policy stance and is now officially backing the governments initiatives to cut transport emissions.

// 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

// Spy shots reveal new Ford Ranger’s F-150-like front end

Last week, Ford gave us our best look yet at the all-new Ranger via a shot of the utes rear three-quarter (admittedly while decorated in camouflage). Now, an unofficial image has emerged on the internet showing the models front end.

// Honda drops electric car bomb, reveals five new EV models

Honda has copped flack from some corners in the industry for getting behind electric vehicles as quickly as other marks.

// Fuel efficiency of imports improves

The government is hailing early success for its clean car discount after announcing the average emissions of newly-imported vehicles has fallen 15 per cent in just three months.

IN OTHER NEWS

// AV aircraft revealed at China airshow

An autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) which could revolutionise personal air transport had its world premiere at Airshow China 2021.

// Tone-changing roof for new Minis

New Zealand buyers can personalise their Mini Cooper with a new exclusive Multitone Roof design.

// New directors on-board

Ports of Auckland Ltd (POAL) has appointed of two new directors Stephen Reindler, pictured left, and Geoff Plunket start on November 1.

// SAIC Motor celebrates strong EV sales and technical recognition

A top-ten result in an automotive study and record new energy vehicle sales marked a successful double celebration for MG Motors parent company SAIC Motor in August.

// $11.5m contract awarded to power NZ Battery investigation

A consortium of specialist firms has been awarded a major contract to advance the New Zealand Battery Projects feasibility investigation into a pumped hydro storage scheme at Central Otagos Lake Onslow.

// Bike brakes rule imminent

Almost all motorcycles with engine capacities of more than 125cc entering New Zealand will need anti-lock braking systems (ABS) from November 1.

// Electricity vital to decarbonise NZ

The Governments consultation document for its Emissions Reduction Plan highlights the key role of electricity in reducing New Zealands carbon emissions, Electricity Retailers Association chief executive Cameron Burrows says.

// ‘The Prisoner’ Mini Moke up for auction

One of the earliest cult TV shows is The Prisoner, from 1968.

// NZ energy event now March 2022

Energy symposium LUMO has been rescheduled from November 11 to March 8 next year due to recent COVID-19 announcements.

// BMW prices the all-electric iX3 SUV

BMW New Zealand has released pricing for its new electric SUV, the iX3. Due here before the end of 2021, a bit later than originally expected, the iX3 will land in two oddly named trim levels.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// Current National New Car Deals

REMOVED THIS WEEK

HAVAL

  • JOLION PREMIUM FROM $25,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • H6 PREMIUM FROM $31,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • UTE CANNON-L 4X2 AUTO FROM $36,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC

NISSAN

  • JUKE ST | MSRP FROM $29,990 +ORC
  • X-TRAIL 2WD AUTO ST 7 SEAT | MSRP FROM 36,790 +ORC

ADDED THIS WEEK

HAVAL

  • JOLION PREMIUM FROM $26,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • H6 PREMIUM FROM $32,990 SRRP INC GST + ORC
  • UTE CANNON-L 4X2 AUTO FROM $37,490 SRRP INC GST + ORC

NISSAN

  • 1% finance over 36 months with zero Deposit. Available on the entire Navara and SUV range.

SUZUKI

  • No Deposit Finance on all Suzukis

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 October 20212021-10-14T23:16:18+13:00

14th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Kiwi pricing confirmed for the Lotus Emira, its last petrol sports car

Following confirmation that Lotus is set to be relaunched in New Zealand in the coming months, local pricing and spec has now been announced for its all-new Emira sports car.

// More on this 

RIP Jemima Gazley

// Jemima leaves $476k legacy for paediatric cancer research

Jemima Gazley (15) died peacefully at home on the evening of October 12 surrounded by her family but fulfilling her wish to leave behind an incredible legacy for paediatric cancer research

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// NZ fuel prices hit record high – Gaspy data

It has never been more expensive to fill up your tank in New Zealand. The team behind fuel price tracking app Gaspy noted this week that the national average price for 91 octane petrol currently sits at $2.39.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Fleet management strategy needed for ERP

A fleet management strategy for the next five to 10 years, which includes a vehicle scrappage scheme, is needed for the transport sector of the Governments proposed Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP), VIA chief executive David Vinsen says.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Confirmed: Govt wants 30% of NZ’s cars to be electric by 2035

The government has announced new targets for electric vehicle uptake in New Zealand via a consultation document; the main goal being to have 30 per cent of the countrys entire light-vehicle fleet (new and used) be electric 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

// BMW iX3 NZ pricing and specs provided

The electric BMW iX3 is priced from $114,900 and due to arrive here in the last quarter of this year, BMW New Zealand says.

// IBC Japan promises ‘smooth transition’

Car dealers will enjoy the same rates and terms as what they had with Autoterminal NZ under its new ownership.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Ford Mustang V8 could lose power to meet emission standards

Fords much decorated V8-powered Mustang GT and Mach 1 may lose a few of their ponies for the 2022 model year due to increasingly strict emissions regulations in the US.

// Armstrong’s providing vehicles to Kindness Collective

Armstrongs has announced it will provide the Kindness Collective with vehicle support, followed by a range of additional initiatives planned for the leadup to Christmas.

// Beam to launch in Palmerston North

Micromobility company Beam starts in Palmerston North next month, bringing up to 200 e-scooters to the city.

// Breakaway in road transport

There has been a major split in the road-transportation industry with two organisations exiting Transporting New Zealand, formerly known as the Road Transport Forum.

// GM reaches deal with LG to pay for Bolt battery recall costs

LG Electronics has reached a deal with General Motors to pay US$1.9 billion to US$2 billion to reimburse the automaker for the cost of recalling Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicles due to the risk of battery fires.

// Electricity sector investment on track for 1.5 degrees

Mercury says current investment committed to new renewable generation until 2025 will bring emissions from the electricity sector to a level consistent with a 1.5-degree future.

// Prince Charles says his Aston Martin runs on wine and cheese byproducts

Prince Charles has spoken out about his personal efforts to combat the climate crisis which include pumping wine and cheese byproducts into his Aston Martin and installing solar panels at his royal residence, Clarence House.

// Aussie electric bike maker nearing production

Electric car and bike makers don’t necessarily go by names you’d instantly recognise, with the likes of Livewire, Damon, Lightning, Energica and even the longer established Zero barely registering for many.

// Solus, Aeron, Aonic – New models for McLaren?

British automaker, McLaren, has filed to trademark the names Solus, Aeron, and Aonic, which could be used as future models.

// EV Torque – all charged up

I certainly was all charged up in August, on the ninth to be precise, when the electricity sector tried to meet demand on what was one of the coldest days of the year.

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 October 20212021-10-13T20:22:55+13:00

13th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Audi NZ reveals pricing for new RS 3 hyper hatch

The Audi RS 3 Sportback is set to arrive in New Zealand in the first quarter of 2022.

// 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 gives Hilux the GR Sport treatment

Wondered what a Gazoo Racing-tweaked Hilux might look like? Toyota has released a Hilux GR Sport for the 2022 model year, but only for availability in the Japanese market.

// The Prius-hacking Silicon Valley star shaping Toyota’s future

James Kuffner once reprogrammed a Prius to turn it into a driverless vehicle for Google. Now, he’s a top executive at Toyota, charged with hacking the very way it approaches the business of carmaking.

// Ram teases electrified ute ahead of SEMA extravaganza

Every time the Las Vegas SEMA Show rolls around, theres always certain brands that put in a lot of effort. Stellantis brands Ram and Jeep are two such brands.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Kiwi-built electric moped hitting the streets

A Kiwi company sick and tired of the hubbub of the urban commute is launching its first product. The Streetdog is a creation of Wellington-based FTN Motion, which wanted to create something electric but accessible.

// Transport’s future shown at ITS World Congress

E-mobility is on display at the ITS World Congress in Hamburg this week.

// First Ineos Grenadier lands over the ditch for torture testing

The Ineos Grenadier, one of the most anticipated off-roaders of 2022, has already landed in Australia for testing.

// Mazda New Zealand partners with Michelangelo

Mazda New Zealand has announced that it is one of the supporting sponsors of the Michelangelo A Different View exhibition in Auckland in January next year.

// Tesla Giga Berlin to start Model Y production November

Tesla Model Y production will start at its Berlin factory in November and deliveries follow in December, according to Tesla chief executive Elon Musk.

// Registered motor vehicle trader numbers continue decline

The number of licensed dealers in New Zealand continues to trend down, according to figures released by the Motor Vehicles Trading Register covering the September month.

// Freightliner EVs hit million miles real-world testing

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) has announced that its Freightliner battery electric Innovation and Customer Experience (CX) Fleets have reached one million miles (1.6 million kilometres) …

// Extra range for SUV

MG says it has enhanced the technology of its ZS EV meaning its better value as well as boasting a longer range.

// Lockdown hamstrings Corvette C8 dealer event schedule

The first factory-built right-hand-drive GMSV C8 Corvette yet is now registered and on the road in New Zealand, but the brand is unable to schedule events in local dealerships.

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 October 20212021-10-12T21:50:42+13:00

12th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Industry rallies round dealer’s family

Members of the car industry have dug deep and donated thousands of dollars to help fulfil a terminally ill teenagers wish to fund vital cancer research.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Mazda lays out SUV and electrification roadmap

Mazda Motor Corporation has laid out a roadmap to expand its global SUV offering from 2022 as well as completing the electrification of all its production vehicles by 2030.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Hyundai sinks US$1.1billion into hydrogen fuel cell factories

Hyundai, one of the leading marques in the hydrogen development stakes, has announced a massive spend on two new hydrogen fuel cell factories in South Korea.

// 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

// Audi R8 V10 Performance RWD revealed as a purist’s supercar

While Audi might be most famous for the all-wheel drive ‘quattro’ cars that it has produced over the years, the German brand is not afraid of switching things up now and then.

// BMW BEV sales more than double

BMW Group posted significant sales growth through September, particularly battery electric vehicles (BEVs) with sales more than doubling.

// Audi CEO says electric cars now almost as profitable as petrol cars

While most of the talk centers around range capabilities, the biggest gap that electric vehicles have to petrol ones is, arguably, price.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Aston Martin DB6 EV conversion coming in 2023

British brand, Lunaz, is known for creating EV conversions of classic cars. It’s latest project, an Aston Martin DB6.

// EV uptake barriers in Southland revealed

Range anxiety, cost, battery lifespan and environmental concerns around battery replacement are the main reasons Southlanders EV uptake is so slow.

// Covid restrictions extended

The reopening of car yards and showrooms across Auckland remains at least another week off after the government decided to maintain its current alert level settings for the region.

// Fuel board backs takeover

Fuel retailer Z Energys board has sanctioned a takeover by ASX-listed Ampol via a scheme of arrangement.

// Ford might launch a ute even smaller than the Maverick

Ford is considering an even smaller ute (and the Maverick is a proper ute) than the Maverick to expand its more budget-oriented offerings after culling its passenger car range.

// World’s lithium mines struggling to keep up with global EV demand

Interest in electric vehicles is surging at the minute. New Zealand has just recorded its biggest month in history for plug-in sales, Norway is approaching a situation where almost 100 per cent of its new passenger-vehicle sales are EVs,

// Royal Enfield Twins Add Pizzazz for 2022

Royal Enfields biggest offerings, the Interceptor and Continental GT 650, undergo a slight metamorphosis for 2022, with tweaks to the engines now making them Euro V compliant.

// Here’s the first look at the stunning cars of Transformers 7

While we can’t quite call Michael Bay’s Transformers a car movie, I’m sure we can all agree that the franchise features some stunning cars.

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).

12th October 20212021-10-11T21:26:21+13:00

11th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// New Zealand’s cheapest EV gets a new look, better batteries

MG has updated the ZS EV, with styling taken from its ICE ZST sibling. The updated electric SUV has a smoothed-out grille, holding an offset charge port hidden by a sliding panel.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Spark network extension enables more rural EV chargers

More rural areas can now get Electric Vehicle (EV) ready, thanks to the extension of the Spark IoT network.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Right-hand drive Corvette hits NZ

The first factory-built right-hand drive C8 Corvette has been registered and is now appearing on New Zealands roads.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Push to electrify government fleet stalls

Government agencies are facing the prospect of having to buy carbon offsets as they predict less than half of their fleet will be electric in 2025.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Ford reveals more of next-generation Ranger

Car makers go to great lengths to protect their top-secret prototypes from prying eyes.They use camouflage stickers with mind-bending patterns, squiggles, and swirls.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Huge range of electrified Mazda SUVs coming – and yes, a rotary range extender is happening in 2022

Mazda has confirmed an onslaught of electrified SUV models for 2022-23 – including at least four for New Zealand.

// More on this 

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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

// AC Schnitzer debuts mad 582hp BMW M3 Competition

BMWs M3 Competition is a fairly unhinged four-door straight out of the box, thanks to its 375kW/650Nm turbocharged inline six and a wonderful chassis underneath. But, there will always be BMW customers that want a little more.

// Apple plan for cars uses iPhone to control A/C, seats, radio

Apple, whose CarPlay interface is used by millions of motorists to control music, get directions and make phone calls, is looking to expand its reach within cars.

// Hybrid battery charges in seconds rather than minutes

Mahle Powertrain and Allotrope Energy have combined the fast charging capability of a supercapacitor with the power density of lithium-ion to produce what they call lithium-carbon battery technology.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Watch and listen: Gordon Murray’s 12,100rpm V12 sounds remarkable

Gordon Murrays next-gen hypercar, the T.50, has defied a sea of fully electric hypercars to arguably be the most anticipated performance car of the moment.

// AA Buyer’s Guide: Eco-friendly SUVs for summer

The country is currently under Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, but were looking forward to the summer and exploring New Zealand once again (if the alert levels allow).

// Taking a look at the Auto Wash Bowl of the 1920s

Taking us back to the early motoring days, the car wash of the 1920’s looked somewhat different to our modern-day devices.Heres a photo from 1924 showing a car wash in Chicago.

// Watch: Have we found the best livery of all time?

This week on Zooming with DRIVEN we’re discussing all things electric, with Jeep revealing the new-generation Grand Cherokee which now comes with a plug-in hybrid power plant.

// PNG admit Maserati purchase was a ‘terrible mistake’

A fleet of Maserati cars that were purchased for the 2018 Apec summit by the Papua New Guinean government are now for sale at discounted price.

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).

11th October 20212021-10-10T20:29:22+13:00

8th October 2021

HOT TOPIC

// NZ’s first right-hand drive Chevrolet Corvette finally arrives

The factory-produced first right-hand drive Chevrolet Corvette C8 has been registered on New Zealand roads, marking a historic moment thats been decades and decades in the waiting.

// More on this

HOT TOPIC

// New fund for emissions-cutting schemes

A new government fund to support projects that help towards the decarbonisation of the transport sector has been opened for applications.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Lancia Delta confirmed to return as electric hatch

The Lancia Delta is set to return, according to the new CEO of the brand. But dont expect another rorty, turbocharged rally homologation special the new one will be entirely electrified.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Businesses give young driver programme a helping hand

Carters Tyre Service is joining Skoda New Zealand as an official partner of the Street Smart road safety programme for young drivers.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Confirmed: 6.3-metre Ram 3500 set for NZ, pricing announced

New Zealand has a new behemoth in town, with local Ram distributor Ateco confirming this morning that the new right-hand drive 3500 is coming our way.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// GM promises to overtake Tesla in EV sales

General Motors plans to cash in as the world switches from combustion engines to battery power, promising to double its annual revenue by 2030 with an array of new electric vehicles,

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Record month for EVs

The number of new and used electric vehicles (EVs) in New Zealand has climbed to 32,780 following a record 2,282 new registrations last month, according to Ministry of Transport figures.

// More on this 

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// Help your customers avoid expensive repair bills

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BEST OF THE REST

// Mazda set to debut new rear-drive Mazda 6 next year

Mazda is reportedly set to debut its all-new rear-drive Mazda6 sedan in the first half of 2022. The news comes from Spyder7, which said the new 6 will take styling inspiration from the Vision Coupe concept of 2017.

// New rules for credit companies

Lenders are being reminded that many of them need to be certified by the Commerce Commission or risk facing penalties of up to $600,000 under new regulations that came into force at the start of the month.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Ford Mustang updated with ‘Stealth’ package plus extras for 2022

Ford CEO, Jim Farley, wants the next-generation Mustang to be a true poster car. Though he won’t provide any details of when it will debut, or what feature’s it’ll have, we have been given a look at the (potential) final hoorah for the current generation S550 Mustang.

// Beam adds North Shore to its Auckland e-mobility

Micromobility company Beam is bringing its e-scooters to more areas of Auckland following popular demand. Beam has increased its fleet numbers, bringing additional e-scooters to the North Shore area, to be followed by its e-bikes.

// ComCom approves Transpower recovering $5m costs

The Commerce Commission has allowed Transpower to recover about $5 million it has spent so far in developing a new transmission pricing methodology (TPM).

// Video: Volvo receives record EV truck order

Volvo Trucks has received an order for 100 Volvo FM Electric trucks from Northern Europes largest shipping and logistics company DFDS.

// Auckland’s electric bike expo now 2022 due to COVID uncertainty

The fourth eBike Expo at The Cloud on Aucklands Queens Wharf, which was due to be held on November 20 and 21, has been rescheduled to November 26 and 27 next year.

// Reserve Bank lifts OCR to 0.5%

The Reserve Bank has raised the official cash rate (OCR) by 25 basis points to 0.5 per cent, the first increase in seven years.
The move was widely expected and ends an 18-month spell at the record-low rate of 0.25 per cent.

// Lender to refund customers

High-cost lender Moola has agreed to refund the interest and fees paid by 50 customers after admitting it failed to comply with the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Acts lender responsibility principles.

// Lexus and Fender team up for limited-edition electric guitar

Lexus and Fender have created a special Stratocaster electric guitar, inspired by the Lexus LC flagship. The guitar comes in a beautiful shade of Structural Blue, which doesn’t actually come from the paint.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// UPDATED Current National New Car Deals

REMOVED THIS WEEK

  • Ford – All-New Puma Now From $31,990 + ORC
  • Hyundai – iLoad Runout Deal (No price displayed)

ADDED THIS WEEK

  • Purchase a Grand California and receive a free 4-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).

8th October 20212021-10-07T22:17:17+13:00
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