NZ Automotive Industry News

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PODCAST: Dane Fisher On SIXT

In late 2020, Giltrap Group general manager of business development joined host Richard Edwards to discuss the brand’s new mobility and rental business SIXT.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/dane-fisher-on-sixt

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Tribunal Declares Taylor a Trader

The Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal declared banned trader Warwick Taylor’s broking activity as trading late last year – leaving little doubt that he is working against regulations.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/tribunal-declares-taylor-a-trader

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Steve West On Five Years Of Chargenet

Late in 2020, ChargeNet chief executive Steve West joined host Richard Edwards to discuss their growing network, plans for the future and the broader promotion of the EV industry.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/steve-west-on-five-years-of-chargenet/

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At Local EV Service Ditched at Devonport

AT Local, a publicly funded EV rideshare service on Auckland’s North Shore Devonport peninsula launched in 2018 by Auckland Transport (AT), has been dropped by the agency in favour of improved bus services in the area.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/at-local-ev-service-ditched-at-devonport/

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Nordic EV Summit Postponed Again

COVID-19 precautions have led to the postponement of the Nordic EV Summit from April 21 and 22 to November 10 and 11 this year.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/nordic-ev-summit-postponed-again/

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Ten Million BEVs And PHEVs On Global Roads

Cumulative EV sales reached 10.8 million in December 2020. So says EV-volumes in reporting that 2020 became a great year for plug-in vehicles.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/ten-million-bevs-and-phevs-on-global-roads/

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VW Teases Trinity EV

Volkswagen expects a new Trinity electric car will be its next flagship EV. The Trinity project is mentioned by VW chief executive Herbert Diess on Twitter, saying it comes after the ID.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/vw-teases-trinity-ev/

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Toyota Pays US$232M Settlement Over Emissions Lawsuit

The world’s largest vehicle manufacturer has been confirmed to have come under investigation by America’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over the understood failure to accurately self-report emissions data, with Toyota agreeing to a settlement after the five-year investigation closed.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/toyota-pays-us-232m-settlement-over-emissions-lawsuit

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“Blatant Speculation”: Ford Slams Electric Mustang Rumours

One of the big stories around the traps this week has been a fresh report claiming that the beloved Ford Mustang would become fully electric by the time its next generation came.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/blatant-speculation-ford-slams-electric-mustang-rumours

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Atecas Amended

The Cupra Ateca has been updated for 2021, likewise the Seat Ateca, subtly for the most part, but the big news for this year is the arrival of Cupra’s first offering that isn’t a Seat makeover.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/seat-and-cupra-ateca-amended-2020

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Porsche’s Next Electric Car Spotted Without Camouflage

Any questions or uncertainty about what Porsche’s upcoming Taycan Cross Turismo will look like can just about be thrown out the window, thanks to yet another spotting of the EV wagon, in public, with no camouflage.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/porsche-s-next-electric-car-spotted-without-camouflage

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Hyundai To Say Goodbye To Diesel Engines?

To put it lightly, Hyundai has a buck each way. They’ve quickly established themselves as a mainstream EV leader, while also dabbling in hydrogen.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hyundai-to-say-goodbye-to-diesel-engines

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Save The Date: Audi E-Tron GT Launch Confirmed For February

After literally years of flapping about with concepts, prototypes, spy footage, and camouflage, Audi has finally announced the launch date of its highly anticipated e-tron GT. And, it’s soon.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/save-the-date-audi-e-tron-gt-launch-confirmed-for-february

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Hyundai kills new diesel engine development

A new report from Korea is claiming Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) has stopped developing new diesel engines for itself as well as the Kia and Genesis brands.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124017064/hyundai-kills-new-diesel-engine-development

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Top automotive tech at CES 2021

The atmosphere at the 2021 Consumer Electronics Show, held virtually for the first time due to the pandemic, struck a different tone than in years past.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300211882/top-automotive-tech-at-ces-2021

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Lotus looks to Renault’s Alpine for help on electric sports car

Lotus Cars is looking outside its Chinese owner’s sprawling empire for help preparing for an electric future, joining forces with another small automaker to develop a battery-powered sports car.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/300211917/lotus-looks-to-renaults-alpine-for-help-on-electric-sports-car

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Volkswagen announces first details of brand new flagship

Volkswagen has revealed initial details of its new flagship – a state-of-the-art electric car called Project Trinity.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124025758/volkswagen-announces-first-details-of-brand-new-flagship

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Good Oil: How BMW M skidded right around Covid-19

BMW Group sales fell by 8.4 per cent worldwide in 2020, thanks mostly to Covid-19. But the company’s high-performance M division clearly has no time for pandemics and actually recorded a sales record of 144,218 globally, exceeding the previous best year by 5.9 per cent.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/good-oil-how-bmw-m-skidded-right-around-covid-19/

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Why a no-discount business model is a no-brainer for some Kiwi car companies

Toyota New Zealand (TNZ) made national headlines back in 2018 when it moved to an agency model of business called The Drive Happy Project.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/why-a-no-discount-business-model-is-a-no-brainer-for-some-kiwi-car-companies/

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Report: Ford to go all-electric with Mustang by 2029

It’s one of America’s most iconic badges, but the Ford Mustang might be going all-electric by 2029 if a recent industry report is correct.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/report-ford-to-go-all-electric-with-mustang-by-2029/

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Spanish brand Hurtan turns Mazda’s MX-5 into a vintage roadster

If you haven’t heard of Mitsuoka, you are missing out. It’s a Japanese brand that’s famous for turning normal cars into vintage masterpieces, with its most famous work being based on Nissan’s Silvia line-up.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/spanish-brand-hurtan-turns-mazda-s-mx-5-into-a-vintage-roadster/

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Seven models that show the MPV is alive and well

During the 1980s and 90s, you couldn’t go far without seeing a Mitsubishi L300 Sport Pack, Nissan Homy or Mazda Bongo Brawny out on the roads.

https://www.driven.co.nz/advice/advice/seven-models-that-show-the-mpv-is-alive-and-well/

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People Are Keen To Spend

Tauranga motorcycle dealer Bayride ended 2020 positively with very strong December sales and very few signs of consumer concern about spending. “December culminated in a buying frenzy,” says co-owner Damian Fleming.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/people-are-keen-to-spend

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Low Market Not Bad For Dealers – Online Discussion

Is a slower vehicle market bad for dealers? Not according to a number of industry experts who engaged with a discussion over the topic on AutoTalk managing editor Richard Edwards’ Linkedin page.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/low-market-not-bad-for-dealers-online-discussion

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Better Than Expected Trading Boosts Turners’ NPBT

Because trading results exceeded expectations across its vehicle retail, finance and insurance business units last November and December, Turners Automotive Group now expects its FY21 Net Profit Before Tax (NPBT) to be within a range of $33 million to $35 million.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/better-than-expected-trading-boosts-turners-npbt

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Border Delays Causing Issues For Import Trade

Delays caused by the shift of border inspection verification from Japan to New Zealand are causing an array of issues for the import trade – but authorities are insistent their work is necessary.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/border-delays-causing-issues-for-import-traden

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Mercedes-Benz EQA Due Here Mid-Year

The compact electric Mercedes-Benz EQA has been launched globally in a digital world premiere and is due in New Zealand from mid-2021 according to Mercedes-Benz Cars New Zealand Limited.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mercedes-benz-eqa-due-here-mid-year

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Toyota Reclaims Lead As Most Searched Car Brand

After dominating Google search terms in 2019, BMW has fallen back into second place and Toyota has reclaimed the title of most searched car brand in 2020.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/toyota-reclaims-lead-as-most-searched-car-brand

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Rivian Raises US$2.65B as EV Production Nears

Rivian has raised US$2.65 billion as it prepares to begin production later this year of its electric ute.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/rivian-raises-us2-65b-as-ev-production-nears/

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Vauxhall Combo-E Van in UK Showrooms This Year

A fully electric variant of Vauxhall’s award-winning Combo van has up to 275km range and 800kg maximum payload.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/vauxhall-combo-e-van-in-uk-showrooms-this-year/

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NZ To Hit 78,000 EVs In 2025?

New Zealand will probably get 33,000 EVs on the country’s roads by the end of this year and should reach 78,000 by the end of 2025.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/nz-to-hit-78000-evs-in-2025/

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New MPV takes cues from SUVs

Kia Carnival’s revamp makes it safer and more economical than its predecessors.

https://autofile.co.nz/new-mpv-takes-cues-from-suvs-

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Q&A: David Crawford

David Crawford, chief executive of the Motor Industry Association (MIA), talks to Autofile Online about the year that was and what the future holds.

https://autofile.co.nz/qa-david-crawford-

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Mercedes Unveils its Smallest, Cheapest Electric Car Yet

Another big step forward has been taken overnight in EV land, with Mercedes-Benz revealing one of the first premium electric compact crossovers in the form of its new 2021 EQA.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/mercedes-unveils-its-smallest-cheapest-electric-car-yet

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A Tesla … Convertible? Italian Firm Builds Stunning Model S Drop-Top

While Tesla is slowly working its way through building cars for each popular vehicle segment, for the moment those wanting a drop-top variant are out of luck. Unless you approach Italian coachbuilder Ares, that is.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/a-tesla-convertible-italian-firm-builds-stunning-model-s-drop-top

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Which Cars Are Buyers Most Likely To Keep For 15 Years?

The majority of new-car buyers generally hop behind the wheel of their fresh-scented machinery with the thought that they’ll probably have sold it to get something else some five years down the track.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/which-cars-are-buyers-most-likely-to-keep-for-15-years

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Lexus Confirms NZ Pricing, Specs For Its BMW 3 Series Fighter

Following its quiet local arrival last month, Lexus New Zealand has confirmed pricing and spec for its heavily updated IS compact sedan — a reshaped and more tech-laden version of the outgoing IS, with a modest price increase to match.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/lexus-confirms-nz-pricing-specs-for-its-bmw-3-series-fighter

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Rainbow Warrior: Volkswagen Brings Back ‘Harlequin’ Polo

If there was any sign that the troubles of 2020 were behind us, maybe it’s this — the recreation of one of Volkswagen’s zanier, sillier, more bizarre projects.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/rainbow-warrior-volkswagen-brings-back-harlequin-polo

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Mercedes-Benz reveals second all-electric model, the EQA

Mercedes-Benz has followed up the Top Cars category-winning EQC with a smaller all-electric SUV, dubbed EQA.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/124005507/mercedesbenz-reveals-second-allelectric-model-the-eqa

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Porsche expands Taycan range with sub-$200k entry model

Porsche has revealed the new entry point to the Taycan range, simply called Taycan with no suffix.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/124012336/porsche-expands-taycan-range-with-sub200k-entry-model

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New Israeli battery tech set to ‘revolutionise’ electric vehicles

Electric cars might be about to get much more desirable. An Israeli company called, StoreDot, is on the cusp of a major breakthrough that would remove one of the biggest hurdles to making electric cars mainstream.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/new-israeli-battery-tech-set-to-revolutionise-electric-vehicles/

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Renault’s feisty new Megane R.S Trophy confirmed for NZ

There are no two ways about it, the hot hatch segment includes the most interesting and easily accessible performance vehicles in the world right now, and Renault is about to add another option here in New Zealand.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/renault-s-feisty-new-megane-r-s-trophy-confirmed-for-nz/

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New Mercedes-Benz EQA revealed as the brand’s most affordable electric SUV

While it wasn’t the first German brand to turn its hand to EVs, Mercedes-Benz already knows the segment well, with its fully-electric EQC SUV winning the New Zealand Motor Writers Guild’s Car of the Year award in 2020.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/new-mercedes-benz-eqa-revealed-as-the-brand-s-most-affordable-electric-suv/

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Business As Usual Say Australasian Stellantis Distributors

The distribution networks which represent the various Stellantis vehicle brands in Australia and New Zealand say it is business as usual despite the formation of the new global company.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/business-as-usual-say-australasian-stellantis-distributors

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Tavares Announces Stellantis Leadership Team

Stellantis chief executive Carlos Tavares has named his top executive team and says the new company will have nine dedicated committees governing company-wide performance and strategy.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/tavares-announces-stellantis-leadership-team

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Waitangi Day 2021: Top Seven Employment Tips You Need To Know

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has released seven items you need to know about rights for employees and obligations for employers ahead of Waitangi Day.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/waitangi-day-2021-top-seven-employment-tips-you-need-to-know

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Building A More Sustainable Volkswagen Dealership

Volkswagen Group Retail Germany (VGRD GmbH) wants to reduce energy consumption and C02 emissions across all of its 120 dealerships in Germany.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/building-a-more-sustainable-volkswagen-dealership

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Hyundai Nz Launches Iload Freezer And Chiller Van

Hyundai New Zealand has expanded its van offering with a chilled vehicle solution – an iLoad freezer and chiller van.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/hyundai-nz-launches-iload-freezer-and-chiller-van

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Electric Airportlink Fleet Launched

South Auckland’s first fully electric bus service has been introduced by Auckland Transport (AT), with Auckland Airport and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/electric-airportlink-fleet-launched/

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Smartview Will Allow Charger Availability Check

How EVs use public charging and parking sites and whether they are overstaying their welcome will be determined under a Smart Christchurch plan to use new parking occupancy sensors in the city.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/smartview-will-allow-charger-availability-check/

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Jeff Dahn Re-Signs With Tesla And Joins Novonix

EV battery materials supplier and developer Novonix has appointed Tesla battery research head professor Jeff Dahn as its chief scientific advisor from July this year.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/jeff-dahn-re-signs-with-tesla-and-joins-novonix/

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US$52B EV Battery Cell And Pack Materials Market Forecast

Markets for lithium-ion battery materials such as nickel, cobalt, copper and insulation will see a rapid increase in demand that would not have been there without EVs, IDTechEx says.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/us52b-ev-battery-cell-and-pack-materials-market-forecast/

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Turners lifts profit guidance

Company says most of business uplift comes from lending volumes tracking ahead of previous year.

https://autofile.co.nz/turners-lifts-profit-guidance-

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Q&A: Craig Pomare

Autofile Online chats to Craig Pomare, chief executive of the Motor Trade Association (MTA), about 2020 and what’s in store for 2021.

https://autofile.co.nz/qa-craig-pomare-

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SUV shifts upmarket

Subaru tinkers with design and features of the Outback to build on quarter of a century of success.

https://autofile.co.nz/suv-shifts-upmarket-

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Marque unveils electric targets

Kia has unveiled details of its new brand purpose and ambitions with plans being made to roll out the strategy in New Zealand.

https://autofile.co.nz/marque-unveils-electric-targets-

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Naturally Aspirated V8 Hypercar Unveiled For Road And Track

Few motorsport incentives of the current day have enthusiasts as excited as the World Endurance Championship’s ‘Hypercar’ era — a new set of regulations designed to make the category’s top flight cars cheaper and more connected to a production car base.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/naturally-aspirated-v8-hypercar-unveiled-for-road-and-track

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Hot Hatch Wars: New Renault Megane RS Trophy On The Way

If it seems like the NZ Autocar office talks too much about hot hatches, well, I apologise. But, the fact remains that one of our favourite segments in the new-car market also happens to be one of the most competitive and intriguing of the bunch. And, now there’s a (sort of) new entrant.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hot-hatch-wars-new-renault-megane-rs-trophy-on-the-way

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Honda teases electrifed HR-V

Honda has confirmed it will release an electrified version of the HR-V SUV for the first time. Well, in Europe at least.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123994890/honda-teases-electrifed-hrv

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GM teams up with Microsoft on driverless cars

General Motors is teaming up with Microsoft to accelerate its rollout of electric, self-driving cars. In the partnership announced Tuesday, the companies said Microsoft’s Azure cloud and edge computing platform would be used to “commercialise its unique autonomous vehicle solutions at scale.”

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/300209652/gm-teams-up-with-microsoft-on-driverless-cars

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Rivian raises another US$2.65 billion in funding as EV nears launch

Rivian announced another US$2.65 billion (NZ$3.5 billion) in funding Tuesday, as the electric truck manufacturer gears up for its June launch.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/123998269/rivian-raises-another-us265-billion-in-funding-as-ev-nears-launch

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The best selling car in (nearly) every country

The automotive industry is constantly changing, at least if you keep up with the news. But it seems that out there in the real world, things move a bit slower.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123998808/the-best-selling-car-in-nearly-every-country

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Rolls-Royce to enter ultra-luxury electric motoring with upcoming ‘Silent Shadow’

The grand old dame of motoring is getting a modern makeover. Reports from UK publication Autocar suggest the brand is working on an electric Roller potentially called the “Silent Shadow”.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/rolls-royce-to-enter-ultra-luxury-electric-motoring-with-upcoming-silent-shadow/

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Bit much? Hennessey debuts 1000 HP RAM-based ‘Mammoth’ ute

While Hennessey isn’t known for its stellar customer service practices, it is known for turning already-fast vehicles into speed machines that defy the laws of physics through sheer power.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/bit-much-hennessey-debuts-1000hp-ram-based-mammoth-ute/

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Fletcher Resigns From FCAI

Well-known automotive communications executive Lenore Fletcher has resigned from her position as the public affairs director of the Australian Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/fletcher-resigns-from-fcai

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Swiss Award For Fostering Hydrogen

Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility (HHM) has been awarded the ‘Watt d’Or 2021’ for fostering Switzerland’s burgeoning hydrogen ecosystem.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/swiss-award-for-fostering-hydrogen/

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Q&A: David Vinsen

Autofile Online chats to David Vinsen, chief executive of the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA), about 2020 and what beckons in the future.

https://autofile.co.nz/qa-david-vinsen-

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Better than anticipated

New-vehicle sales still being affected by “stock constraints for high-volume models”. The Motor Industry Association (MIA) says registrations of new vehicles in New Zealand last year came in above expectations.

https://autofile.co.nz/better-than-anticipated-

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Ford Unveils Motorsport-Inspired Ranger Ute

In this ute-loving world it was just a matter of time before Ford would release a motorsport-themed version of its ever popular Ranger ute. Overnight, it did just that, in the form of the Ranger MS-RT.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/ford-unveils-motorsport-inspired-ranger-ute

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NZ Car Market Performed ‘Better Than Expected’ In 2020

The data is in regarding how New Zealand’s motoring market performed in 2020, one of the most tumultuous years for the industry in history thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/nz-car-market-performed-better-than-expected-in-2020

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Confirmed: NZ To Get Made-In-China Teslas, Prices Slashed

It’s been rumoured for a while, but now it’s been confirmed — sort of — that Australia and New Zealand will be getting Tesla Model 3s built by the EV manufacturer’s new Gigafactory in Shanghai instead of from the current Fremont, California factory.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/confirmed-nz-to-get-made-in-china-teslas-prices-slashed

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Fiat Chrysler And Peugeot Finally Seal Big Stellantis Merger

After plenty of discussions and will-they-won’t-they speculation, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and Peugeot Société Anonym (PSA) have confirmed a new union under the Stellantis banner.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/fiat-chrysler-and-peugeot-finally-seal-big-stellantis-merger

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Carmaker Stellantis off to a strong start

Stellantis, the car company combining PSA Peugeot and Fiat Chrysler, was launched Monday on the Milan and Paris stock exchanges, giving life to the fourth-largest auto company in the world.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300208511/carmaker-stellantis-off-to-a-strong-start

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‘Better than anticipated’ – new vehicle market drops 23 per cent in 2020

December’s vehicle registration figures are in and show a drop of 25 per cent compared to the same month in 2019.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123986339/better-than-anticipated–new-vehicle-market-drops-23-per-cent-in-2020

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Is Ford planning Bronco-based ute?

Ford looks like it’s planning a rough-and-tumble ute based on the new Bronco, which is a bit strange.

The news comes from user FourHorses on the Bronco6G.com forum, who spotted illustrations of a Bronco-based ute in an official Ford video, which is unlisted but embedded above.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123987089/is-ford-planning-broncobased-ute

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Toyota’s GR Yaris gets a heap of power and new body kit from HKS

For the week, DRIVEN has been lucky enough to have Toyota’s fiesta little GR Yaris on test, and without ruining the upcoming road test, we can confirm that it is an immeasurable amount of fun to drive.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/toyota-s-gr-yaris-gets-a-heap-of-power-and-new-body-kit-from-hks/

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Ford’s new Ranger MS-RT is a Raptor for the tarmac

Due to the high-riding nature of modern double-cab utes, brands and owners alike have ventured into the off-road sphere with modifications, but what about a more tarmac-friendly version?

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/ford-s-new-ranger-ms-rt-is-a-raptor-for-the-tarmac/

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Kiwi new-vehicle sales recover from Covid-19 better than expected for 2020

The New Zealand new-vehicle industry finished 2020 with total registrations of 119,398: well down on 2019 but still performing much better than expected when the country was in the midst of lockdown.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/kiwi-new-vehicle-sales-recover-from-covid-19-better-than-expected-for-2020/

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The Motor Industry Association (MIA) Press Releases

December 2020 sales statistics.

https://www.mia.org.nz/Press-Releases

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Opinion: Will Stellantis Deliver Synergies Of 5 Billion Euro?

The bells have been rung on the stock exchanges, the new Stellantis website is up and running but the question remains will the merger between Peugeot (Groupe PSA) and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) create 5 billion Euro in cost savings without closing a factory?

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/opinion-will-stellantis-deliver-synergies-of-5-billion-euro

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Boxster’s 25th Birthday Special

Porsche New Zealand is taking orders for the special 25th anniversary edition Boxster which is restricted to 1250 units worldwide and is based on the GTS 4.0 model. Prices in New Zealand start at $175,800 including GST and the first deliveries are expected in June and July.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/boxsters-25th-birthday-special

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Banned Trader Working With Prominent Dealer

An Auckland man, officially banned from trading motor vehicles until 2024, has been acting as an agent for at least one prominent Auckland dealership group. Warwick Taylor has a long troubled history within the automotive trade, predominately focussed on the cheaper or higher risk end of the market.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/banned-trader-working-with-prominent-dealer

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Volvo Cars To Triple EV Production

Volvo Cars is tripling electric car manufacturing capacity at its plant in Ghent, Belgium as it prepares to meet fast growing demand for its Recharge line-up of chargeable cars.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/volvo-cars-to-triple-ev-production

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Carnival Comes Into Town

Kia’s fourth generation Carnival people mover, built on a larger platform which it shares with the new Sorento SUV, has arrived on the New Zealand market. It’s available in three models – EX, Deluxe and Premium – all with a 2.2-litre diesel engine and eight-speed automatic gearbox.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/carnival-comes-into-town

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Video: Renault Accelerates E-Mobility

Groupe Renault aims to be a leader in vehicle electrification by 2025, producing more than 10 all-electrics and targeting half of all launches in Europe to be full EVs.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/video-renault-accelerates-e-mobility

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Stellantis Merger Completed Between Fiat-Chrysler And Peugeot

The merger between Groupe PSA (Peugeot-Citroen-DS-Vauxhall-Opel) and FCA (Fiat-Chrysler) that lead to the creation of Stellantis, which is now the world’s fourth largest global automotive manufacturer came into effect today.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/stellantis-merger-completed-between-fiat-chrysler-and-peugeot

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Warning over fake car parts

Audits of imported parts under way to prevent counterfeit goods sneaking into our vehicles. The Motor Trade Association (MTA) is warning businesses to avoid the temptation of buying counterfeit parts at a time when there is pressure on the supply chain because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

https://autofile.co.nz/warning-over-fake-car-parts-

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Urban economies set for boost

Bank forecasts better times for a number of regions but the road to recovery for areas reliant on tourism looks slow. Big cities are being tipped to share more in the economic recovery this year after rural regions have already bounced back more strongly from Covid-19.

https://autofile.co.nz/urban-economies-set-for-boost-

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Takata airbag alert as online searches soar

Industry body hails success of website for people wanting to know if their car is fitted with faulty devices. Car owners across the ditch are being advised to act soon over getting faulty Takata airbags fixed to avoid the risk of having their vehicles taken off the road.

https://autofile.co.nz/takata-airbag-alert-as-online-searches-soar-

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New Kia Carnival Lands, Shows SUVs Aren’t The Only Answer

You could be fooled into thinking that the only way to cart a large family around these days is with an SUV, such is the immense popularity of the genre. But, there are still a handful of manufacturers that will sell you a good old-fashioned minivan people mover in 2020. And among them is Kia.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/new-kia-carnival-lands-shows-suvs-aren-t-the-only-answer

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Volvo Readies For Petrol Purge By Tripling Electric Car Output

One of the more proactive mainstream European manufacturers when it comes to electrification, Volvo, has confirmed that it will be tripling its electric and plug-in hybrid car production capacity in 2021 at its plant in Ghent, Belgium.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/volvo-readies-for-petrol-purge-by-tripling-electric-car-output

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Ford Potentially Working On A Bronco Adventure Ute

There’s little denying that the Ford Ranger is a hugely popular vehicle in both New Zealand and Australia. It was this success that probably helped push over the line plans to bring the nameplate back to life in the blue oval’s homeland. And … maybe … there could be another ute model based on the same bones on the way.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/ford-ranger-s-us-cousin-bronco-ute-could-be-in-the-works

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Ares Design does the old Land Rover Defender right

Ares Design, known recently for bringing back the DeTomaso Pantera, seems to think Land Rover didn’t quite get the new Defender right.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123959862/ares-design-does-the-old-land-rover-defender-right

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Lidar tech on the rise at CES to power future smart cities, autonomous cars

Mobility analysts, urban planners and AI companies bill widespread lidar as a building block for future urban societies, where autonomous vehicles, smart homes and infrastructure work together to create “smart” cities.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300207730/lidar-tech-on-the-rise-at-ces-to-power-future-smart-cities-autonomous-cars

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Watch: Toyota builds a Supra that drifts itself in the name of safety

Thanks to its powerful engine and rear-wheel drive configuration, the Toyota Supra has always been a favourite among drifters, and with over 250kW coming from the BMW-sourced mill, the latest iteration is no exception.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/watch-toyota-builds-a-supra-that-drifts-itself-in-the-name-of-safety/

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Renault’s new R5 EV combines modern technology with classic styling

Ask any petrolhead about the best car that Renault has made, and they’ll most likely start babbling about the R5 Turbo, complete with its huge haunches and epic mid-mounted engine.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/renault-s-new-r5-ev-combines-modern-technology-with-classic-styling/

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Kia Incorporates EVs And Sustainability

Kia Motors Corporation becomes just Kia Corporation and seven new EVs by 2027 are among brand strategy and future ambitions revealed by the company.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/kia-incorporates-evs-and-sustainability

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Revamped Audi Q5 Reaches New Zealand

A shallower octagonal grille, higher side air intakes highlighted by trapezoidal insets, and redesigned LED headlights and daytime running lights are visible changes in the revamped Audi Q5 which is now available at New Zealand Audi dealers.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/revamped-audi-q5-reaches-new-zealand

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Montgomery Takes The Helm At Volvo Nz

Ben Montgomery (pictured) is moving from Jaguar Land Rover to become Volvo New Zealand’s general manager from January 25. Montgomery, currently JLR’s operations manager, replaces Coby Duggan who has been Volvo NZ’s general manager for the past five years.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/montgomery-takes-the-helm-at-volvo-nz

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A 28,000-Year Battery?

A battery which uses nuclear waste called a ‘nano-diamond battery’ could last for 28,000 years without charging, researchers say.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/a-28000-year-battery/

---

Us Agency Asks Tesla To Recall 158,000 Evs

Tesla has been asked by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to recall 158,000 Model S (certain 2012 to 2018 cars) and Model X (certain 2016 to 2018 cars) EVs relating to potential touch screen issues, various media report.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/us-agency-asks-tesla-to-recall-158000-evs/

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It’s Back! Renault Reveals Funky Retro Electric R5 Rebirth

Earlier this week it was revealed that French carmaker Renault was investigating the idea of turning back the clock with some reborn nameplates from the past brought back to life as next-gen EVs.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/it-s-back-renault-reveals-funky-retro-electric-r5-rebirth

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Refreshed Audi Q5 Arrives With More Brains, More Brawn

The hotly contested premium SUV space has a new contender, with Audi New Zealand announcing that its updated Q5 has landed in showrooms around the country.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/refreshed-audi-q5-arrives-with-more-brains-more-brawn

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Skoda Fighting to get its First Electric Car Onto Kiwi Roads

Brands all over the motoring spectrum are rushing to get some kind of electric car into their line-up. Some are doing so in order to be prepared for upcoming bans on internal combustion vehicles overseas, some are doing it for brand positioning and image purposes, and some genuinely see the tech as being a valid answer for commuters in current times.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/skoda-fighting-to-get-its-first-electric-car-onto-kiwi-roads

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Hyundai’s largest SUV is here

Following hot on the heels of the extensively refreshed Santa Fe, Hyundai’s upper-large SUV kingpin, the Palisade, has landed in New Zealand, along with pricing and final specifications.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123944897/hyundais-largest-suv-is-here

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Tesla baulks at touch screen recall, US agency takes action

Tesla Inc. is baulking at recalling about 159,000 vehicles with potentially defective touch screens, so U.S. safety regulators are moving to force the company to take action.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300205618/tesla-baulks-at-touch-screen-recall-us-agency-takes-action

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Renault teases the reborn and all-electric 5 supermini

The news was spoilt a little earlier this week but Renault has come through and confirmed it is bringing back the Renault 5 as an all-electric supermini.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/123957244/renault-teases-the-reborn-and-allelectric-5-supermini

---

Toyota to pay US$180M for failing to report emissions defects

Toyota will pay $180 million to settle U.S. government allegations that it failed to report and fix pollution control defects in its vehicles for a decade.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300205741/toyota-to-pay-us180m-for-failing-to-report-emissions-defects

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Mover over Duster! Dacia and Lada join forces to create the Bigster SUV

With its emphasis on no-frills, tough and inexpensive SUVs, Romanian brand Dacia (sold as “Renault” in New Zealand with the Duster) is pretty much the modern equivalent of Lada. Anybody remember those iconic “Nothing but car!” ads shown in New Zealand in the 1980s?

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/mover-over-duster-dacia-and-lada-join-forces-to-create-the-bigster-suv/

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Porsche 914 is reborn in carbon fibre, with a grunty Cayman flat-six engine and 6sp manual

British company Fifteen Eleven Design has a day job: it’s a division of Mellors Elliot Motorsport, which has been making racing cars (especially rally) for over 40 years.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/porsche-914-is-reborn-in-carbon-fibre-with-a-grunty-cayman-flat-six-engine-and-6sp-manual/

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German tuning firm pumps Toyota’s tiny GR Yaris up to 231kW

And so the race is on with the Toyota GR Yaris: not around a circuit or gravel road, but among the world’s tuning firms to see who can boost the pocket-rocket by the most.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/german-tuning-firm-pumps-toyota-s-tiny-gr-yaris-up-to-231kw/

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Dealer Drops Appeal Against Tribunal Decision

A Dunedin car dealer has reportedly abandoned an appeal against a Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal decision ordering it to pay $5000 to a customer after selling him a car that it didn’t disclose had been written off, repaired and re-registered.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/dealer-drops-appeal-against-tribunal-decision

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Sono’s Latest Solar Car Shines

Sono Motors has presented its second generation solar EV (SEV) prototype at the virtual CES 2021 event. The new Sion from the German start-up includes 248 photovoltaic panels in the EV’s body that will top up its battery pack for a maximum 35km extra range daily.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/sonos-latest-solar-car-shines/

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Car yard vandal put behind bars

Two dealerships in the same city were targeted by a criminal during night-time raids. A burglar has been jailed for 17 months after causing thousands of dollars’ worth of damage at dealerships in Invercargill.

https://autofile.co.nz/car-yard-vandal-put-behind-bars-

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New boss for Volvo NZ

Executive looks forward to tackling electrification programme as he returns to marque to take on top job. Volvo New Zealand has appointed Ben Montgomery as its new general manager following the resignation of Coby Duggan.

https://autofile.co.nz/new-boss-for-volvo-nz-

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Will New Zealand’s Next Police Cars Be Electric?

One of the biggest stories of 2020’s motoring year was Skoda winning the tender to become the New Zealand Police’s next vehicle supplier. In the wake of the announcement, one of the big questions is what the Labour Government’s declaration of a climate emergency means for the vehicles at hand.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/will-new-zealand-s-next-police-cars-be-electric

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Toyota Looking To Hydrogen To Make The Hilux Green

One of the biggest gripes facing the push for electrification in motoring is the lack of options and solutions when it comes to utility vehicles and commercials. Many of the buyers of these vehicles are EV cynics, often traversing remote areas not well plotted by car chargers.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/toyota-looking-to-hydrogen-to-make-the-hilux-green

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Volvo New Zealand Appoints New General Manager

Change is afoot at Volvo and Jaguar Land Rover’s local arms, following confirmation that JLR operations manager Ben Montgomery is set to take over as general manager at Volvo New Zealand.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/volvo-new-zealand-appoints-new-general-manager

---

Porsche Throws Back The Clock With ‘90S-Inspired Boxster

The age of 1990s throwbacks is well and truly in full swing, with Porsche being the latest brand to release a homage to its pre-millennium self in the form of the new Boxster 25 Edition.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/porsche-throws-back-the-clock-with-90s-inspired-boxster

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Hot Hatch Gets Hotter: Toyota GR Yaris Gets 300Bhp Boost

It felt almost inevitable that Toyota’s highly anticipated new hot hatch, the incredible GR Yaris, would become a bit of a tuning world darling in the midst of its undeniable hype. And, that appears to be coming to fruition thanks to UK firm Litchfield.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hot-hatch-gets-hotter-toyota-gr-yaris-gets-300bhp-boost

---

iPhone assembler Foxconn sets up auto arm as Apple car looms

Apple’s Taiwanese manufacturing partner Foxconn Technology Group is setting up a car venture, strengthening its automotive capabilities at a time when technology companies including its California ally are looking to expand in vehicles.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300204639/iphone-assembler-foxconn-sets-up-auto-arm-as-apple-car-looms

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Sony still developing its not-for-production EV

Sony is still working on its all-electric Vision-S concept car, despite saying it won’t put it into production.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123935081/sony-still-developing-its-notforproduction-ev

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Hyundai teases Ioniq 5 electric SUV

Hyundai has teased its forthcoming electric SUV, called Ioniq 5. Weirdly, it’s not related to the existing Ioniq in pretty much every way, shape and form.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123939715/hyundai-teases-ioniq-5-electric-suv

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BMW announces plans to ditch dual-clutch transmissions for good

For years, car enthusiasts like us have banged on about how the manual transmission was dying a slow death and how we aren’t happy about it, but we’ve all swallowed our three-pedaled pride, and have had to accept it.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/bmw-announces-plans-to-ditch-dual-clutch-transmissions-for-good/

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It turns out that Sony is dead serious about building an electric car

Sony’s Vision S is a lot of things. The electric car is a PlayStation, personal assistant, home theatre system and cinema rolled into a set of wheels promising to change the way people think about cars.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/it-turns-out-that-sony-is-dead-serious-about-building-an-electric-car/

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Hydrogen-powered Hilux? NZ icon set to gain fuel cell tech in the future

New Zealand’s number-two selling vehicle could be powered by a fuel cell in the future, as Toyota works with partners including Kenworth to come up with low-emission solutions for commercial vehicles.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/hydrogen-powered-hilux-nz-icon-set-to-gain-fuel-cell-tech-in-the-future/

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Thailand Feels Brunt of Falling Australian Car Sales

Australia imported nearly 146,600 fewer vehicles from overseas suppliers in 2020, and nearly 57,000 fewer from its major trading partner Thailand, as new vehicle sales fell for the third consecutive year.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/thailand-feels-brunt-of-falling-australian-car-sales

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Palisade Out to Stretch Large SUV Boundaries

Hyundai is throwing down the gauntlet to large SUV sector players with the Palisade which hits New Zealand showrooms this month.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/palisade-out-to-stretch-large-suv-boundaries

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EVs Exceed 24,000

EV registrations continue a steady but not spectacular climb in December EV registration figures just released by the Ministry of Transport.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/evs-exceed-24000/

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EVs Help Global Auto Sales

Sales of electrified vehicles have boosted both BMW and Renault. Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sales rose 38.9% while fully electric sales increased 13% last year compared to 2019, reflecting strong customer interest, BMW Group says.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/evs-help-global-auto-sales/

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Video: Hyundai Teases Ioniq 5

Hyundai has given some indications about its electric Ioniq 5 midsize SUV which premieres globally in February.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/video-hyundai-teases-ioniq-5/

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GM Targets Delivery Industry With New Business Plus EV Van

General Motors has announced a new EV van to be released this year as part of a new business focusing on delivery and logistics with FedEx Express its very first customer.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/gm-targets-delivery-industry-with-new-business-plus-ev-van/

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ABB Opens Global E-Mobility R&D Centre

ABB’s US$10 million E-mobility Innovation Lab has opened in the Netherlands, underlining its market leading position in EV charging infrastructure.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/abb-opens-global-e-mobility-rd-centre/

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Joint Venture Targets Hydrogen LCV Market

Groupe Renault and Plug Power will develop hydrogen fuel cell systems (FCEVs) targeting more than 30% of Europe’s FCEV light commercial vehicle market.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/joint-venture-targets-hydrogen-lcv-market/

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About 20,000 Porsche Taycans Delivered

All-electric Taycan deliveries of 20,015 last year helped Porsche achieve a strong global result. The brand delivered 272,162 new vehicles worldwide in 2020, just 3% below a record 2019, in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic challenges.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/about-20000-porsche-taycans-delivered/

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Energy Storage’s Future Investigated

Electricity generation from renewable energies is growing daily and, to integrate their variable nature, energy storage systems are growing in parallel.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/energy-storages-future-investigated/

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Real Life Tron: Hyundai Teases Futuristic, Electric Ioniq 5

Hyundai’s assault of new model releases looks set to continue into 2021. Hot on the heels of the new Sonata, i20, i20 N, i30 N, Tucson, Kona EV, Kona N-Line, and more, the firm has confirmed that the reveal of its new Ioniq 5 is imminent.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/real-life-tron-hyundai-teases-futuristic-electric-ioniq-5

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Ford Mondeo Set to Become an SUV?

It’s one of the sole remaining traditional three-box sedan and wagon platforms on the market, but that may not be the case for the Ford Mondeo.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/ford-mondeo-set-to-become-an-suv

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Revealed: China’s Latest EV Could be a Tesla Model S Killer

The phrase ‘Tesla killer’ gets wheeled out too often these days — bestowed upon any start-up EV concept, and the odd Porsche. But, this sleek new sedan from Chinese carmaker Nio might actually be deserving of the title.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/revealed-china-s-latest-ev-could-be-a-tesla-model-s-killer

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Hyundai’s $119,990 Super SUV Lands in New Zealand

Six months on from confirmation that it would be offered locally, Hyundai’s giant seven-seater Palisade SUV has landed in New Zealand. And the Korean firm’s local arm has confirmed full specs and pricing, to boot.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hyundai-s-119-990-super-suv-lands-in-new-zealand

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Renault to bring back classic models as EVs

The plans will be officially confirmed later this week but, if these details from Reuters are accurate, Renault is looking to revive two classic models as fully electric vehicles.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123924091/renault-to-bring-back-classic-models-as-evs

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Volkswagen triples electric car sales ahead of climate rules

utomaker Volkswagen tripled sales of battery-only cars in 2020 as its new electric compact ID.3 came on the market ahead of tough new European Union limits on auto emissions.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/300203709/volkswagen-triples-electric-car-sales-ahead-of-climate-rules

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Abarth’s spicy little 595 gains new tech, and ‘Scorpion’ mode for 2021

While it’s based on Fiat’s iconic 500 hatch, the Abarth 595 is a different beast entirely, featuring more aggressive styling, and a spicy little powerplant that will leave you grinning ear to ear.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/abarth-s-spicy-little-595-gains-new-tech-and-scorpion-mode-for-2021/

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NZ-built bargain: This $60K Lamborghini blends Italian style and Kiwi ingenuity

Known as one of the most radically-styled cars of its time, the Lamborghini Countach is still one of the most wild-looking vehicles to grace this earth, but as with all Italian exotics, they don’t come cheap.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/nz-built-bargain-this-60k-lamborghini-blends-italian-style-and-kiwi-ingenuity/

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Meet Hyundai New Zealand’s $120k, eight-seat Palisade super-SUV

And you thought the $90k Santa Fe Limited was extravagant. Hyundai New Zealand is taking its SUV offering to the next level with the “upper-large” Palisade, an imposing machine originally designed with the American market in mind (hence the name, referencing Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles) but also now developed in right-hand drive “primarily for for Australasia”, says Hyundai.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/meet-hyundai-new-zealand-s-120k-eight-seat-palisade-super-suv/

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Watch: Hyundai teases high-performance Kona N, confirms turbo mill

A new breed of affordable performance cars is around the corner. Compact SUVs represent the fastest-growing segment in the new car sales race, and manufacturers are working to introduce high-performance versions of popular crossovers.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/watch-hyundai-teases-high-performance-kona-n-confirms-turbo-mill/

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Does Chevrolet have a Corvette-based electric SUV in the works?

While it doesn’t sound like the world’s most interesting seminar, the GM had some exciting news to share at the 2021 Consumer Electronics Show relating to a few of its new models.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/does-chevrolet-have-a-corvette-based-electric-suv-in-the-works/

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Vehicle Arrivals Up in December

Vehicle imports bounced back strongly in December with a total of 26,180 arrivals, up 32% month-on-month. This compares to 19,829 arrivals the month prior, according to New Zealand Customs Motor Vehicle Statistics.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/vehicle-arrivals-up-in-december

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Cableprice Opens Dunedin Site

CablePrice has expanded its Mercedes and Freightliner sales, parts and service network with the addition of a new Dunedin branch.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/cableprice-opens-dunedin-site

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GM’s E-mobility Vision Explained

General Motors’ EV and AV future will be outlined by its chairman and chief executive Mary Barra in the opening keynote address at the virtual 2021 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) from January 11-14.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/gms-e-mobility-vision-explained

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Numbers of Dealers Dwindling

The numbers of registered motor vehicle traders is continuing to fall – and if present trends continue may go below the 3000 mark before this year is over.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/numbers-of-dealers-dwindling-2

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Regional State of Emergency Situation in Japan Yet to Impact Trade

A series of regional State of Emergency declarations in Japan to ease the spread of COVID-19 are yet to significantly impact the used vehicle supply chain according to exports.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/regional-state-of-emergency-situation-in-japan-yet-to-impact-trade

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Ports of Auckland Chair Liz Coutts to Retire

Ports of Auckland (POAL) chair and director Liz Coutts has announced she will be stepping down after 10 years in the role.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/ports-of-auckland-chair-liz-coutts-to-retire

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Video: Big Screen in Mercedes-Benz EQS

The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) hyperscreen features in the brand’s electric EQS due on sale later this year with an expected 700km range.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/video-big-screen-in-mercedes-benz-eqs

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Nio Reveals ET7 Autonomous Model

China-based global EV company Nio has launched its first autonomous driving model, the ET7 sedan.

Revealed at Nio Day in Chengdu, ET7 deliveries are expected to start in Q1 2022.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/nio-reveals-et7-autonomous-model/

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Imports Stage Late Rally in 2020

Numbers edge up for all sectors but they fail to mask the sharp drop in supply over the course of the year.

https://autofile.co.nz/imports-stage-late-rally-in-2020-

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Dealership Drops Legal Battle

Company found to have breached the Fair Trading Act decides to pay up to disgruntled customer.

https://autofile.co.nz/dealer-abandons-legal-battle-

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Port’s Chair Steps Down

Five-year stint at Auckland’s helm has seen “many challenges”, says Liz Coutts.

https://autofile.co.nz/ports-chair-steps-down-

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Next Honda Civic Type R Might Not be a Hybrid After All

It feels like from the very moment the current FK8-generation Honda Civic Type R was revealed that rumours started to swirl around whether the next-gen model would become electrified in some way, shape, or form.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/next-honda-civic-type-r-might-not-be-a-hybrid-after-all

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Renault Set to Revive Classic Models as Electric Cars

Almost a year on from his appointment as Renault’s new CEO, former Volkswagen exec Luca de Meo is set to radicalise the French firm’s outlook on electrification — according to a fresh report.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/renault-set-to-revive-classic-models-as-electric-cars

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First Look: Hyundai Drops Generous Tease for Hot Kona N

While most of today’s ‘performance SUVs’ are built to target premium buyers, we’re starting to see more of them enter the mainstream space. Ford has unveiled the Puma ST, and Hyundai is busy cooking away behind the scenes with its new warm Kona N-Line and hot Kona N.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/first-look-hyundai-drops-generous-tease-for-hot-kona-n

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Genuine ‘Kitt’ from Knight Rider Could Sell for a Million Dollars

Those of us who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s will be well aware of the halcyon period of cars in sitcoms. We recently touched on this in a story about a van from the A-Team, and we mention it again because another icon from the period is also set to go up for sale — the KITT Pontiac Firebird TransAm from Knight Rider.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/genuine-kitt-from-knight-rider-could-sell-for-a-million-dollars

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Nio’s Flagship Electric Sedan Will Have a Range of Up to 1000km

At the Nio Day event over the weekend just gone, Chinese electric carmaker Nio revealed a brand new model. The ET7 is set to be the marque’s flagship sedan, ready to fight it out with the likes of the Tesla Model 3.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/123921388/nios-flagship-electric-sedan-will-have-a-range-of-up-to-1000km

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The Long History of the Company That Now Provides Our Police Cars

Skoda might have been the punchline to a bad joke for people over a certain age, but those jokes don’t really work anymore, because Skoda has been cool for some time now.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123811818/the-long-history-of-the-company-that-now-provides-our-police-cars

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Chip Shortage Hits Global Automakers

A semiconductor shortage is dragging on some of the world’s biggest auto manufacturers, costing Daimler, Nissan, Honda and Ford production of a range of cars.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300202009/chip-shortage-hits-global-automakers

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Are Apple and Hyundai Teaming Up to Build Cars?

While Apple has been at the forefront of tech for the last few decades, the American brand is still yet to make a successful foray into the vehicle segment, and take on Tesla at its own game.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/are-apple-and-hyundai-teaming-up-to-build-cars/

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Electric Power Coming to Toyota’s Toughest Ute

Toyota is experimenting with electric power for its LandCruiser 70 Series in Australia. Developed with BHP for use on mine sites, the machine packs electrified power in place of a conventional engine.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/electric-power-coming-to-toyota-s-toughest-ute/

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This Koenigsegg Regera Could Fill the $5 Million Hole in Your Garage

Imagine waking up one day and deciding that you’re going to build and sell a supercar that can compete with the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini at the top of the pecking order, it sounds like quite the fantasy, right?

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/this-koenigsegg-regera-could-fill-the-5-million-hole-in-your-garage/

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Loopit Launches In NZ

Australian car subscription business Loopit has officially launched in the New Zealand market, announcing a partnership with the Giltrap Group and global car rental giant SIXT.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/loopit-launches-in-nz

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Petition to Recall Teslas Rejected

A request to investigate unintended acceleration in Tesla EVs has been rejected by the US government’s automotive safety agency which says drivers hit the wrong pedal.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/petition-to-recall-teslas-rejected

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Dealer numbers drop 4.4%

Register shrinks for the fourth month in a row but the annual decline is lower than the previous year.

https://autofile.co.nz/dealer-numbers-drop-44pc-

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Giltrap scheme teams up with Aussie tech

“Subscriptions provide an opportunity for dealerships to innovate” – Dane Fisher, Giltrap Group

https://autofile.co.nz/giltrap-scheme-teams-up-with-aussie-tech-

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General Motors, Kia Both Unveil New-Look Logos

You’ll have no doubt heard plenty of ‘new year, new me’ sentiment so far in 2021. But, unlike most ambitious new-year resolutions, General Motors and Kia have both already acted on theirs.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/general-motors-kia-both-unveil-new-look-logos

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Apple to Produce its First Car With Help From Hyundai?

A few years ago there was a mountain of rumour and innuendo around tech giant Apple pushing to produce a car — a logical move in this age of electrification and autonomy. Speculation about the project was dormant for a period, but now it’s back.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/apple-to-produce-its-first-car-with-help-from-hyundai

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Confirmed: Elon Musk Now the Richest Human Alive

After a meteoric rise in the wealth charts in 2020, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has managed to overtake Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/confirmed-elon-musk-now-the-richest-human-alive

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Australia to Trial ‘Cash For Clunkers’ Scheme to Get Rid of Old Cars

After years of watching the US and UK put through various ‘cash for clunkers’ schemes, which see a partial buy-back of old cars via significant discounts on new cars in order to lower the age of the national fleet and boost the economy, a similar scheme is set to be launched over the ditch in Australia.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/australia-to-trial-cash-for-clunkers-scheme-to-get-rid-of-old-cars

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Lock Up Your SUVs: Subaru Reveals ‘Greatest Outback of all Time’

Yes yes, I know, the Subaru Outback (and a multitude of the brand’s other low-bodied offerings) are touted as SUVs. But, station wagon fans nationwide should celebrate the Outback as one of their own — even in silence.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/lock-up-your-suvs-subaru-reveals-greatest-outback-of-all-time

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New logo for GM in a bid to electrify image

General Motors is changing its corporate logo and launching an electric vehicle marketing campaign to reshape its image as clean vehicle company, rather than a builder of gas-powered pickups and SUVs.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300202007/new-logo-for-gm-in-a-bid-to-electrify-image

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US safety agency rejects petition to recall Tesla vehicles

The U.S. government’s auto safety agency has rejected a request to investigate unintended acceleration in Tesla electric vehicles, saying the acceleration was caused by drivers pushing the wrong pedal.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300202004/us-safety-agency-rejects-petition-to-recall-tesla-vehicles

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If only: Jeep Vangler rendering hints at the impossible

For the same reason that car enthusiasts seem to love station wagons, vans have also fallen into the same category. And for a vehicle with almost no redeeming factors in the dynamic driving sphere, it doesn’t make a lot of sense.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/if-only-jeep-vangler-rendering-hints-at-the-impossible/

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Report: Tesla’s ‘game-changing’ $35,000 EV to arrive by 2022

While Tesla’s Model 3 was marketed around the world as the affordable way to get into luxury electric motoring, the reality of a $70,000 electric sedan landed in New Zealand missed the mark a little.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/report-tesla-s-game-changing-35-000-ev-to-arrive-by-2022/

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Marques predict sales rebound

Hyundai and Kia hope a growing demand for electric vehicles will bolster business in the year ahead. Hyundai and its affiliate Kia predict global vehicle sales to increase by 11.5 per cent in 2021 after being in decline for the past two years.

https://autofile.co.nz/marques-predict-sales-rebound-

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New faces for peak body

Pair bring extensive industry experience to organisation across the ditch. The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) is hailing the appointment of two new senior executives as “deep and abiding change” looms.

https://autofile.co.nz/new-faces-for-peak-body-