NZ Automotive Industry News

19th May 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Ford gives us an accidental peek at the F-150 Lightning, while Biden gets a drive

Joe Biden is back behind the wheel. And now he’s gone, bolting down the track.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Lamborghini goes electric: commits to hybrids, first EV coming soon

Thoughts that iconic marque Lamborghini would be a last bastion of pure internal combustion are set to go up in smoke (pardon the pun) following confirmation from the brand that it will soon sell solely hybrid models.

// More on this 

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

BEST OF THE REST

// Opel revives iconic Manta with uber-cool retro Elektromod

While New Zealand and Australia had the Holden Commodore as their local General Motors icon, and America had the Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro, Europe’s cult classic GM product through the 1970s and 1980s was the Opel Manta.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Battery electric flagship unveiled

Marque doesn’t expect to see an “immediate jump” to pure electric vehicles by all buyers.

// VW teases Multivan PHEV for this year

Tesla V3 superchargers are expected to be operating in places like Napier and Tauranga in the second half of this year.

// Evolocity’s new programme

New Zealand’s leading EV STEM programme EVolocity is launching a new programme – the EVolocity Innovation Lab – sponsored by MeloYelo e-bikes.

// Action to beat climate change

EECA launches Gen Less campaign to “say no to business as usual” when it comes to emissions.

// Tyre Tread 101

Car people know those black round things are important, the tyre being the component that sticks you to the road.

ONE LINERS

SPECIAL REPORTS

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

19th May 20212021-05-19T21:57:52+12:00

18th May 2021

HOT TOPIC

// What Car Dealer mug shall we make?

Introduce friends to The Full Brief and you’ll soon be able to score one of these sweet mugs. But which one would you want?

  1. Cardealologist – Basically a doctor
  2. “I spoke to your wife, she said buy the car”

We can only print one type. Reply to let me know your favourite. Or have you got a better idea?

HOT TOPIC

// Kia Stinger and Sportage could face NZ recall over fire risk

One of New Zealand’s most popular vehicles, the Sportage, could soon become subject to a nationwide recall alongside its sports sedan cousin, the Stinger.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Honda saves the manual as Aston Martin tries to kill it

Honda has confirmed the Civic Type R will continue with the manual transmission while Aston Martin says it will no longer offer a third pedal with its sports cars.

// More on this 

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

BEST OF THE REST

// Bespoke Gulf Mclaren 720s celebrates kiwi partnership

McLaren Special Operations have unveiled a Gulf Oil-liveried McLaren 720S in tribute to the partnership which first started more than 50 years ago with the brand’s founder Kiwi Bruce McLaren.

// Revealed: Mercedes-Maybach’s new S680 keeps the V12 dream alive

With tightening emissions standards around the world, big displacement engines will soon be a thing of the past, but it’s good to know that brands like Mercedes-Maybach are keeping the dream alive.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Leaked: new BMW ix3 revealed, no big grille (for now)

One of the many questions we have regarding the tall, undeniably bold grilles that BMW has implemented on its 4 Series, M4, and M3 is whether they’re likely to roll out across the firm’s entire line-up

// Rethink could be needed for EV leasing

Car leasing companies might have to rethink the duration and maximum mileages when they’re leasing electric vehicles

// Mixed bag for regions as economy recovers

Though some parts of New Zealand have continued to recover in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdowns, others show “patches of softer economic activity.

// The difference six years makes

Case 1 – Mahoney v Farmer Motor Group Ltd In this case the purchaser acquired a new Audi A4 Avant for $83,000 from the trader in March 2014.

// ‘Uber Pass’ launched

Kiwis are among the first in the world to get Uber Pass, a membership that connects both mobility and delivery.

// $7.5m for extracting lithium for EVs from geothermal fluid

Global plans by New Zealand mineral recovery firm Geo40 Ltd to obtain low carbon lithium from geothermal fluid recovery

// Kia goes fancy: new luxury flagship breaks cover

When it comes to models that New Zealand misses out on from other markets, generally speaking left-hand drive exclusive stuff from the land of the free.

// BMW keeps the RWD flame alive

When BMW shifted the 1 and 2 Series ranges to the same FWD platform as the Mini range, people who cared about the German company’s proud sporty RWD heritage were rightfully worried.

ONE LINERS

SPECIAL REPORTS

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

18th May 20212021-05-18T21:04:02+12:00

17th May 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Four to six-month wait for new Toyota Rav4 and Hilux

Toyota New Zealand has confirmed lengthy waiting periods of around six months for those wanting a new RAV4 or Hilux.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// NZ government looks at banning fuel-burning cars by 2050

As governments look to make tighter emissions standards, carmakers are having to make drastic changes to line-ups, and towards ‘cleaner’ energy sources such as electric or hydrogen power.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Vale: Ross Macdonald – Macdonald halligan motors

Autotalk has learned that Auckland car dealer, sailor, tennis player and motorsport enthusiast Ross Macdonald died on May 14.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// MTA says NZ immigration is becoming a road safety issue

The New Zealand Motor Trade Association has issued a statement detailing concerns with the country’s immigration protocols, drawing a link between them and the shortage of workers in the vehicle inspection sector.

// More on this 

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

BEST OF THE REST

// How Tobias Moers will make Aston Martin great again

Tobias Moers has been at Aston Martin for nearly a year after a 26-year stint at Daimler, including seven years helming Mercedes-AMG. Now that he’s settled in, here’s how he plans to bring Aston Martin back into the green.

// Kia welcomes new Cerato, farewells Sportage

Kia New Zealand has removed the popular Sportage mid-size SUV from its website until the all-new model arrives in 2022.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Former NASA engineer developing roads that can charge EVs

Infrastructure remains an unsolved issue in the grand scheme of vehicle electrification. Where do you put all the chargers?

// More stock but higher prices at auction

April hasn’t been the best month for the Japanese used vehicle export industry in general, with logistics issues om both sides of the Pacific hampering shipments.

// How to get more leads without spending more money

There’s no doubt that measuring the effectiveness of your marketing budget is a key milestone to achieving a better result for your business.

// State sector EVs and charging a ‘baby step’

The Government’s move to procure 422 new EVs for the public sector is “just a tiny baby step”, Greenpeace climate campaigner Amanda Larsson says.

// Budget eyes more EVs for public sector

Government says $67.4m package over four years will help it meet carbon-neutral goal.

// Apple locked users into its ecosystem. Tesla wants to do the same with its ‘iPhone on wheels’

Tesla released its futuristic “Full Self-Driving” package last year to great fanfare, criticism and the usual stream of video uploads showing off cars that could seemingly drive themselves.

ONE LINERS

SPECIAL REPORTS

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

17th May 20212021-05-17T18:21:39+12:00

14th May 2021 + the Weekend

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota ditches petrol Camrys to focus on hybrids

Toyota New Zealand has confirmed its updated Camry line-up for 2021, complete with a handful of aesthetic and tech changes.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Ministers ponder total ICE car ban by 2050

Chance to have your say on government report outlining four pathways to helping slash emissions from the transport sector.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// UDC Finance delivers a strong result

Under the new ownership of Shinsei Bank, UDC Finance Limited posted a net profit after-tax of $21.7 million for the three-month period to December 31, 2020.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Wellington council considering banning cars from its CBD

As Auckland city continues to feud over the future of Queen St in the midst of changes that have angered local businesses, it looks like Wellington could be in for a similar clash.

// More on this 

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

BEST OF THE REST

// MG reveals unhinged touring car racer for the road

While it might not be so known here, over in Europe MG has a bit of a reputation in the world of touring cars.

// Long five-door turbocharged Suzuki Jimny on the way?

With sales around the world still constrained by enormous waiting lists, there’s little doubt that the charming little current-generation Suzuki is anything other than a success.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Porsche will now build you a one-off if your pockets are deep enough

As far as high-end automotive brands go, none have managed to replicate the reputation that Porsche holds with its customers and would-be customers that are yet to justify a 911.

// $67.4m budget for carbon neutral public sector

Budget 2021 delivers $67.4 million over four years to support the transition to a carbon neutral public sector by 2025.

// “Crisis and change” – David Vinsen

Over the past few months, I’ve been writing about crises, change and the need to adapt.

// Lead, Test drive and Sales by source April 2021 (vs march 2021)

Despite all the COVID-19 related challenges including lockdowns and shortage of stock we’ve seen a strong start to the year

// Automotive director unveiled

Stacey Kearins promoted at Smart Loyalty NZ as company releases initiatives to the market.

// Tesla tow car dubbed the ‘hulk’

Taupo’s Drive EV has a 2015 Tesla Model S P85 as its vehicle delivery tow car named the “Hulk”.

// Lime’s batteries help native birds

Lime’s old scooter and e-bike batteries will power tools such as thermal cameras to help protect New Zealand birds.

// The Good Oil: Lyons and Jaguars

What would Sir William Lyons think of Jaguar’s decision to go pure-electric by 2025?

// An afternoon of injury, death and grief designed to make an impression

It was an afternoon of traumatic injury, death and immeasurable grief. And for a while it was enough to suspend the bravado and bonhomie of 300 teenagers.

// Ford’s superb new police trucks: F-150 Responder for US, Ranger for Australia

Skodas are very capable cop cars. Just ask the New Zealand Police. But really, is there anything cooler than a “police truck”?

ONE LINERS

SPECIAL REPORTS

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

14th May 2021 + the Weekend2021-05-16T21:41:35+12:00

13th May 2021

HOT TOPIC

// NZ government to spend $13.1m on 422 new electric vehicles

The New Zealand Government has confirmed a $13.1million investment in electric vehicles, as it progresses towards its pledge to introduce more EVs across its fleet.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New dealer network launches

Businesses across the country win AA Motoring’s seal of approval as it seeks to give consumers extra confidence when choosing a car.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Report: 400,000 cars driving on New Zealand roads without WOFs

While it has been over a year since the first Covid-19 lockdown in New Zealand, the effects of the pandemic restrictions are still painfully obvious, especially on the financial front.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Genesis’ new G70 Shooting Brake might be the best-looking wagon in the world

There are no two ways about it; wagons are seriously cool. But with so many SUVs filling line-ups around the world, brands are moving away from these low-slung baggage-haulers.

// More on this 

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

BEST OF THE REST

// Tesla decides allowing people to buy cars with bitcoin is a bad idea

After making the unprecedented decision to allow customers to purchase new cars with Bitcoin, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has confirmed it will suspend the action.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Mercedes CEO: petrol cars can’t be phased out “artificially”

While the topic of banning internal combustion engine cars has divided motoring enthusiasts around the world, one of the less discussed points is whether the petrol and diesel car as we know them have a natural end-of-life or end-of-business-case point on the horizon.

// Mazda names its young eco-warriors

Mazda New Zealand’s Mazda Foundation has announced the five winning schools in its 2021 TREEmendous environmental education programme.

// Shortages continue to bite

Four months into 2021 and the challenges facing distributors with shipments of vehicles and parts continue with little respite in sight.

// MTA calls for extra help with car-repair costs

Plea for the government to fund vehicle-related work after payments to people on benefits or low incomes more than triples to $33.6m in just six years.

// Ford patents tech that shows billboard ads on your touchscreen

The advent of camera technology in cars has undoubtedly resulted in plenty of very handy inventions, from speed limit sign recognition, to Tesla’s ‘sentry mode’. But, Ford appears to be taking things in a different direction entirely.

ONE LINERS

SPECIAL REPORTS

// UPDATED – Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

13th May 20212021-05-13T22:09:31+12:00

12th May 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Subaru teases its first electric car, NZ arrival not guaranteed

Subaru has given us the best look yet at its first fully electric car — an SUV it’s co-developed with Toyota — while also revealing the model’s name and other details.

// More on this 

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

BEST OF THE REST

// Toyota’s first-ever hypercar will arrive next year with 735kW

Toyota’s sporty GR family is steadily growing, most recently with the addition of the C-HR GR Sport.

// This company charges $2K to make your Land Rover Defender look rusty

Land Rover’s new Defender might not look like a hardy steel-clad off-roader that it once was, but the British SUV is probably the most capable 4WD you can buy in modern times.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Revealed: Chunked up Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace debuts

Volkswagen’s most family friendly variant of the Tiguan has been given a refresh inside and out, as predicted mirroring the changes the brand has already made to its ‘standard’ Tiguan models.

// Fieldays online wins Eventex bronze award

The 11th Global Eventex Awards has announced Fieldays Online as the bronze award winner in the Virtual Expo category.

// Fighting climate change needs a transport scrap

There’s a real chance that the Government’s proposed emission targets (moving to 105g CO2 by 2025) will reduce the supply of vehicles to New Zealand, raising prices and making newer vehicles less affordable.

// Rethink could be needed for EV leasing

Car leasing companies might have to rethink the duration and maximum mileages when they’re leasing electric vehicles (EVs) because of their capacity to run reliably over greater distances than petrol or diesel (ICE) cars.

// Bank tips profits to edge higher

Heartland enjoys lending growth despite ongoing economic uncertainty because of the coronavirus.

// Jeep and Mahindra’s fight over copyright hits Australasia

On the surface the lengthy legal battle between American motoring giant Jeep and Indian upstart Mahindra may seem straightforward, but there’s plenty of unpacking to do.

ONE LINERS

Carmakers facing stock shortages as demand soars

Back from the dead! Mitsubishi to revive Ralliart division

Five solar farms planned

Mazda’s drive to help sick kids

Speedy SUV: Porsche’s all-electric Macan kicks off real-world testing

Harley-Davidson spins LiveWire into its own brand

SPECIAL REPORTS

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

12th May 20212021-05-12T20:43:50+12:00

11th May 2021

HOT TOPIC

// Mercedes-Benz unveils all-electric people-mover

Mercedes-Benz has shown off its idea of an electric people mover, the EQT concept.

// More on this

AutoCar says The coolest minivan ever? Mercedes unveils space age EQT

Driven says Mercedes-Benz reveals the all-electric EQT minivan

AutoTalk says EQT concept expands Mercedes-Benz vans portfolio

HOT TOPIC

// Ford teases the all-electric F-150 Lightning

Ford has revealed it will revive a famous name for its all-electric F-150 pickup, as well as giving us a first brief glimpse of what it will look like in a new video before the official reveal in a week’s time

// More on this

AutoTalk says Ford unveiling all-electric F-150 Lightning May 19

HOT TOPIC

// Fatal ‘driverless’ Tesla crash: report shows autopilot not to blame

One of the biggest stories of the year thus far has taken a steep turn, with preliminary reports into a fatal Tesla crash going against claims made earlier by a police report.

// More on this 

Stuff says Security footage shows Tesla owner got into driver’s seat before deadly crash

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

BEST OF THE REST

// New-look Volkswagen polo GTI teased in render

It feels like just yesterday that Volkswagen welcomed its all-new Polo GTI hot hatch to the world. But already the German marque is angling to launch its refreshed replacement.

// Get in top gear with Pentana Solutions

Pentana Solutions’ Top Gear Live is an interactive virtual event featuring presentations and an in-depth look at industry trends, emerging new technology and omni-channel strategies.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Get surfing, Kiwi style

Marque links up with surfing organisation to boost sport and initiatives across Aotearoa.

// Deliveries set to get easier for car transporters

Proposals to create loading bays along a stretch of an Auckland road look set to end years of problems around illegal parking.

// Make a crane, grant a wish

Mazda New Zealand is asking New Zealanders to put their paper-folding skills to use and make model seabirds which will enable critically-ill Kiwi children to have some of their wishes granted.

// Confusion over fate of non-ESC Nissans

Waka Kotahi and Inspecting Organisations are working to decide the fate of a number of vehicles that have made it into the country without Electronic Stability Control after the technology became mandatory.

// GM boss reiterates commitment to Holden aftersales

GM Australia and New Zealand managing director Mark Ebolo says while the Holden brand is retiring from Supercars this year, the parent company is still committed to providing parts and service through its aftersales network.

// BMW adds electric sound range to EVs

BMW IconicSounds Electric brings an unmistakable sound portfolio to BMW models powered by a fully electric or plug-in hybrid drive system.

ONE LINERS

TR Group adds EV trucks to rental fleet

Renault retires iconic ‘RS’ performance badge

Speculation grows over Lexus F’s twin-turbo V8 return

Geneva dividend soars 67%

EVs cheaper than ICE in four to six years

Renault aims to be Europe’s greenest brand by 2030

Will Ford’s next-generation Ranger Raptor get a twin-turbo V6?

Watch: Tesla Cybertruck makes public appearance in New York

NZ Police deploy new thermal imaging devices to spot brake failures

Jaw-dropping $200m estate built by Henry Ford II sold

Harley-Davidson launching Livewire as its all-electric motorcycle brand

SPECIAL REPORTS

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

11th May 20212021-05-11T21:54:13+12:00

10th May 2021

EDITOR’S PICKS

// Tesla’s own engineers suggest Elon Musk exaggerated ‘full self driving’

Here’s the thing. While it could easily be argued that Tesla does get targeted by the motoring press, it could also be argued that other brands are far better at concealing their own inner struggles.

// MG Zs wins best value gong

MG’s ZS small SUV range has won the Best Value prize in Australia’s 2021 Drive Car of the Year awards.

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Mysterious Fast & Furious Lykan Hypersport up for sale

One of the most fascinating supercars of recent years is something called the Lykan HyperSport.

// Mispronounced Maori name causes advert ban

Incorrectly pronouncing Rangiora in a radio advertising jingle has led to a Canterbury car dealership being told by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) to stop using the advert which it has run for the past five years..

// ComCom warns genesis over business billing errors

The Commerce Commission has issued a warning to Genesis Energy Limited about billing errors concerning electricity line charges to business customers.

// Kona electric battery replacements on way

Monthly limited shipments of Hyundai Kona Electric battery packs could start arriving in August – or even sooner, according to Hyundai New Zealand.

// Marque ready to launch first BEV

Mazda says the new MX-30 is designed to reflect the green values of its likely owners.

// Powering up on agenda

Regulator seeks views on regulatory priorities for New Zealand’s energy networks and international airports.

ONE LINERS

Ferrari stalls on profit goal

Citroen turns its tiny electric AMI into a delivery workhorse

Porsche’s all-electric Macan is taking shape

Relive the golden years with this immaculate Mitsubishi Galant VR-4

Elon Musk reveals he has Asperger’s syndrome during ‘Saturday Night Live’ monologue

Last-ever Aussie-built Falcon GT quietly changes hands for a rumoured $1 million

Eworld gets 3500 visitors

SPECIAL REPORTS

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

10th May 20212021-05-10T21:31:26+12:00

7th May 2021 + The Weekend

EDITOR’S PICK

// Chip shortage forces carmakers to leave out some high-end features

When automakers were first hit with chip shortages at the end of last year, they tried idling factories until the troubles blew over. But with the crisis stretching into its fifth month and getting worse, they’re getting creative to keep at least some production moving forward.

EDITOR’S PICK

// Brabus unveils 1000nm Mercedes-AMG E 63 tyre fryer

Out of the box, the Mercedes-AMG E 63 is already a bit of a larrikin. It might come with 4Matic all-wheel drive, but it’s geared to give it a hefty rear bias.

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

IN OTHER NEWS

// The Good Oil: It’s a BMW M-car, but is it art?

The very first BMW M model was also a BMW Art car. Although it wasn’t the first BMW Art Car.

// Video: First EV battery ‘passport’ offered

An initiative led by the Battery Innovation Hub (BIH), a Battery Industry Group (BIG) working group, Vector and Audi have collaborated with Everledger to develop a world leading ‘battery passport’.

// Industry treat in ‘paradise’

The chance to enjoy special deals on a luxurious escape to Rarotonga is being offered to members of the automotive industry.

// New-car sales lag behind 10-year average

Industry organisation in the UK says confidence is growing but admits a full recovery remains a long way off.

// Loan company to refund borrowers

UDC Finance enters into a settlement with regulator following an investigation into its fees.

// Skoda is no longer a joke

‘How do you double the value of a Skoda?’ ‘Fill it up with petrol.’ Yes, you all know the hoary old jokes about Skodas spread by the flat-earthers out there who refuse to acknowledge that things change.

// Japanese students design electric car with a body made of wood

An electric vehicle with a body made of locally produced Hinoki Japanese cypress wood is on display at the Kumanokodo Center in Owase, Mie Prefecture in Japan.

// Wondering about EVs? Then get along to eWorld on Saturday

New Zealand’s only dedicated electro-mobility expo, the eWorld Expo conference and trade show has kicked off in Auckland.

// Corvette to make first Australasian appearance at Tailem Bend Supercars

Seventy years of Holden motorsport will be celebrated this weekend at the Tailem Bend round of OTR SuperSprint Supercars with a special convoy of Holdens and a surprise appearance of the mid-engined Chevrolet Corvette.

ONE LINERS

Around Auckland’s eworld e-mobility expo in less than a minute

Watch: Ranger reigns supreme in NZ again! Zooming with DRIVEN EP44

EVs continue popularity rise

China set to build more electric cars than rest of the world combined

Michelin planning on tyre made out of recycled plastic bottles

First look: Hands-on with New Zealand’s first Hyundai Ioniq 5

SPECIAL REPORTS

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

7th May 2021 + The Weekend2021-05-09T18:16:50+12:00

6th May 2021 + Special Report

SPECIAL REPORT

// Current National New Car Deals Revealed

Updated every Thursday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials. Offers including pricing specials, ‘free extras’ deals, or special financing terms.

HOT TOPIC

// 812 Competizione: Ferrari unveils its craziest V12-powered supercar yet

As the automotive world moves to cut emissions, it seems that it’s getting harder for high-performance manufacturers like Ferrari to bring interesting cars to the market that aren’t electric.

More on this topic

AutoCar says: 610kw monster: Ferrari confirms details of 812 Competizione hypercar

HOT TOPIC

// Ford NZ joins Drive Electric

Ford NZ has joined Drive Electric to help push electrified vehicles into the mainstream, ahead of Auckland’s Eworld conference this weekend.

More on this topic

EVsandBeyond says: Ford teams up with Drive Electric

AutoFile says: Ford NZ joins EV lobby group

SPONSORED

// Wage and salary rates are climbing at rapid levels

Automotive Employment NZ Ltd, a specialist motor industry recruitment company has recently put together a list of current remuneration estimates for the Automotive Industry.

BEST OF THE REST

// Volkswagen teases updated Tiguan Allspace seven-seater

Volkswagen’s entry-level three-row SUV, the Tiguan Allspace, is getting a refresh. The German firm has issued a teaser snap of the new model, ahead of its unveiling on May 13.

// Skoda auto confirms size of NZ police car deal

Škoda Auto has sent out a press release from its Mladá Boleslav headquarters in the Czech Republic confirming that it will supply up to 2000 Superb wagons

IN OTHER NEWS

// Move over Prius? Uber confirms plans to build its own electric car

Although they’ve taken something of a back seat to more mainstream electric motoring questions, ride-share-based EVs are still very much a point of discussion and ongoing development in the motoring world.

// Motor industry deals at Rarotongan luxury beach resort

The opening of the travel bubble between the Cook Islands and New Zealand couldn’t come soon enough for the Vinsen family who own and operate the luxury Manuia Beach Resort in Rarotonga.

// Leaders urged to take action on e-mobility

Greater leadership and bolder decisions are needed to advance e-mobility in New Zealand.

// NZ well placed for EVs

Seven months of decline comes to an end as an extra 24 traders bolster register.

// New-car sales lag behind 10-year average

Industry organisation in the UK says confidence is growing but admits a full recovery remains a long way off.

// Performance vehicle hits NZ

Collectors urged to act fast with only 20 of Subaru’s latest limited-edition car on sale here.

// NZ’s electric car fleet has doubled in just two years

Although electric cars aren’t populating New Zealand’s top 10 new-car sales list just yet, on a percentage basis the trend is undoubtedly heading in upwards.

// Nissan and Daimler sever ties, but questions linger over partnership

Nissan’s embattled past few years have had both implications for the brand itself as well as all the brands it has partnerships with.

// Would you pay $11 an hour for autonomous driving?

Over-the-air functionality in new vehicles offers instant updates and the ability to pick and choose extras after you’ve bought the car, rather than select from a list during the purchase.

ONE LINERS

Ford is betting that solid-state batteries will cut EV costs

Alfa Romeo’s ultimate Giulia is certainly not cheap

Mitsubishi’s very own Evo VI Tommi Makinen Edition fetches $200K at auction

First Volkswagen ID.4 EVs to land in New Zealand this month

Hyundai Ioniq 5 makes NZ debut at eworld

Skoda unveils all-new Fabia

6th May 2021 + Special Report2021-05-06T21:49:28+12:00
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