NZ Automotive Industry News

February 14th, 2025

BEST OF TODAY

// As demand for plug-in hybrids falls, carmaker puts them on ice in NZ

The local arm of Czech carmaker Skoda has confirmed it has dropped plug-in hybrids from its line-up, at least for the time being.

// Spending on cars hits six-month high

Latest statistics show motor vehicles delivered the best month-on-month change of key retail categories.

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Buy and sell with ease

Our user-friendly site connects dealerships and businesses, offering seamless transactions and a wide range of vehicles to suit every need.

Why AuctionOnline? Extensive listings, transparent bidding, and competitive pricing. Sellers reach a large audience of serious buyers, while buyers find exactly what they need with advanced search tools.

See why we’re the go-to solution for B2B automotive auctions in New Zealand. Your next deal is just a click away!

IN OTHER NEWS

// Dealer principal off to Harvard

Boss lands scholarship designed to grow senior leadership-level talent in the automotive sector.

// Finance firm boosts market share

MTF responsible for one in five vehicle loans in New Zealand as it embraces digital innovations.

// Hyundai on fast track with solid-state battery tech

Expect longer range and faster charging from future Hyundais with solid-state batteries.

SPONSORED BY CARJOBS

// The Home of $99 Recruitment

Slash your automotive recruitment costs and target the industry directly. A $99 listing on CarJobs targets industry people in your desired location using campaigns on Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads.

And now you can include video in your listings!

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// US State Department has budget line for ‘Armored Teslas’ worth $400 million

The US State Department’s procurement forecast for the 2025 budget includes an item called “Armored Teslas” worth $400 million.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 14th, 20252025-02-14T02:50:20+13:00

February 13th, 2025

BEST OF TODAY

// New Nissan Leaf out in the open under covers

The new Nissan Leaf looks is undergoing testing in the US. The little electric hatchback is looking much more like a crossover design, as Nissan suggested it would.

// BYD provides free autonomous driving features but NZ has to wait

BYD has announced a major rollout of its smart driving technology, equipping all its cars in China with driver assistance systems at no extra cost.

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Buy and sell with ease

Our user-friendly site connects dealerships and businesses, offering seamless transactions and a wide range of vehicles to suit every need.

Why AuctionOnline? Extensive listings, transparent bidding, and competitive pricing. Sellers reach a large audience of serious buyers, while buyers find exactly what they need with advanced search tools.

See why we’re the go-to solution for B2B automotive auctions in New Zealand. Your next deal is just a click away!

IN OTHER NEWS

// GM 2026 Chev Silverado EV production due to start this year

The Chevrolet Silverado EV ute made its official debut in the US for the 2024 model year.

// MTF records $9.6m full-year profit

MTF Finance is reporting an underlying profit after tax of $9.6 million for the 2024 financial year amid economic headwinds.

// AA teams up for repairs

Insurance company and Drive Group to operate from same location in west Auckland.

// In sync to make claims easier

Repairers to benefit from roll-out of new software system designed to reduce time spent on administration.

// Study finds adaptive cruise control increases crash risk

A new study suggests that while most advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) improve road safety, cruise control – both standard and adaptive – may have the opposite effect.

SPONSORED BY CARJOBS

// The Home of $99 Recruitment

Slash your automotive recruitment costs and target the industry directly.

A $99 listing on CarJobs targets industry people in your desired location using campaigns on Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads.

Guaranteed to reach 1000’s of people in and around the Automotive Industry.

Busy? Just email me, I’ll write the ad and set it all up for you! dan@carjobs.co.nz

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Scout extended-range PHEV tech, platform could be scaled to other vehicles

Scout Motors’ EVs may be at the fringes of the VW Group, but will be its MVP for bringing new tech into the fold.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 13th, 20252025-02-12T22:17:22+13:00

February 12th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// New Skoda Superb driven – 195kW 4×4 wonder wagon

Skoda NZ is starting the year with not only a new Kodiaq, but also a new generation of Superb.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// MTF honours top dealers

Finance company treats annual award winners to special celebration among North Canterbury wineries.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Smart electric SUV lineup in New Zealand

The new marque designed by Mercedes Benz offers performance tuning by Brabus, a Beats sound system with more than 12 speakers and an artificial intelligence (AI) powered avatar for voice-controlled interaction.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Volvo EX30 Cross Country electric SUV unveiled

The new Volvo EX30 Cross Country has been revealed and will be in New Zealand later in 2025.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Driving change for vintage vehicles

Minister of Transport says inspection proposals aim to reduce unnecessarily onerous compliance requirements.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Buy and sell with ease

Our user-friendly site connects dealerships and businesses, offering seamless transactions and a wide range of vehicles to suit every need.

Why AuctionOnline? Extensive listings, transparent bidding, and competitive pricing. Sellers reach a large audience of serious buyers, while buyers find exactly what they need with advanced search tools.

See why we’re the go-to solution for B2B automotive auctions in New Zealand. Your next deal is just a click away!

IN OTHER NEWS

// Dealer principal off to Harvard through scholarship

Southern Automobiles dealer principal Michelle Findlater has been named the 2025 recipient of the Janet Lane MNZM Scholarship through training organisation MITO and the Inspiring Futures Foundation.

// Tesla Cybertruck on show in Auckland

A Tesla Cybertruck Foundation Edition is on display at Tesla Auckland South until the end of February

// Dealer numbers continue slide

Total reaches its lowest point since April 2013 after shrinking by more than 120 over the past year.

SPONSORED BY CARJOBS

// The Home of $99 Recruitment

Slash your automotive recruitment costs and target the industry directly. A $99 listing on CarJobs targets industry people in your desired location using campaigns on Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads.

And now you can include video in your listings!

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Airbus Drops Hydrogen As Aviation Industry Admits It Won’t Fly

Hydrogen’s hoped for role in aviation dates back to the mid-20th century, when researchers began exploring its potential as an alternative to conventional jet fuel.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 12th, 20252025-02-12T03:00:09+13:00

February 11th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Drive on wild side

Next-generation Forester promises to deliver with strong hybrid powertrain.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Government proposes longer WOFs for classics

The government is moving to ease compliance requirements for vintage vehicles and privately owned motorhomes, proposing a reduction in the frequency of Warrant of Fitness (WOF) and Certificate of Fitness (COF) inspections.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Buy and sell with ease

Our user-friendly site connects dealerships and businesses, offering seamless transactions and a wide range of vehicles to suit every need.

Why AuctionOnline? Extensive listings, transparent bidding, and competitive pricing. Sellers reach a large audience of serious buyers, while buyers find exactly what they need with advanced search tools.

See why we’re the go-to solution for B2B automotive auctions in New Zealand. Your next deal is just a click away!

BEST OF THE REST

// Falling Tesla sales nothing to do with Musk – report

A consumer research firm says plummeting Tesla sales in New Zealand have nothing to do with its chief executive Elon Musk’s polarising views –

IN OTHER NEWS

// Four senior Inchcape executives visit New Zealand dealerships

Inchcape New Zealand recently hosted four senior executives for an Australasian town hall meeting, followed by visits to local dealerships and operations sites.

// EV charge port weather shield patent filed by GM

General Motors (GM) has filed a patent application for an EV charge port weather shield.

// EROAD celebrates 10 years of Fleet Day in 2025

New Zealand’s largest fleet management conference has been confirmed for July 30th at the Mystery Creek Events Centre near Hamilton Airport.

SPONSORED BY CARJOBS

// The Home of $99 Recruitment

Slash your automotive recruitment costs and target the industry directly. A $99 listing on CarJobs targets industry people in your desired location using campaigns on Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads.

And now you can include video in your listings!

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Tesla Cybertruck crash on Full Self-Driving v13 goes viral

A Tesla owner reported that he crashed his Cybertruck into a pole after hitting a curb while using Full Self-Driving, Tesla’s advanced driving assist system that Elon Musk claims will be unsupervised this year.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 11th, 20252025-02-11T02:40:09+13:00

February 10th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Haines to lead Geely Auto in New Zealand

The Giltrap Group has confirmed Jordan Haines as the brand manager for Geely Auto, the country’s newest automotive brand, which will launch in April.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Buy and sell with ease

Our user-friendly site connects dealerships and businesses, offering seamless transactions and a wide range of vehicles to suit every need.

Why AuctionOnline? Extensive listings, transparent bidding, and competitive pricing. Sellers reach a large audience of serious buyers, while buyers find exactly what they need with advanced search tools.

See why we’re the go-to solution for B2B automotive auctions in New Zealand. Your next deal is just a click away!

BEST OF THE REST

// Next-gen Subaru Forester Hybrid confirmed for New Zealand

Subaru of New Zealand has confirmed that the next-generation Forester Hybrid will arrive in mid-2025, introducing the brand’s latest hybrid powertrain to Kiwi buyers.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Suzuki Jimny three-door off the menu?

New mandates for crash-avoidance technology have impacted Jimny three-door, with production for Australia put on hold temporarily.

// The CX-6e is the basis of Mazda’s big electric push

Mazda has trademarked CX-6e, a nameplate that will attach to a forthcoming medium-sized high-rise EV.

// Electric cars are going the distance

A new study has shown that failure rates for electric cars are about the same as for petrol powered vehicles….

SPONSORED BY CARJOBS

// The Home of $99 Recruitment

Slash your automotive recruitment costs and target the industry directly. A $99 listing on CarJobs targets industry people in your desired location using campaigns on Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads.

And now you can include video in your listings!

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Jeep, Ford, Audi PHEV recalls: Battery replacement the next step?

Battery supplier Samsung SDI has issued its own recall documents for more than 180,000 EVs, leading to uncertainty whether a series of manufacturer recalls resolve a potential manufacturing defect.

ONE LINERS

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 10th, 20252025-02-10T03:16:35+13:00

February 7th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Volkswagen teases its most affordable EV yet

Volkswagen is gearing up to introduce its most affordable electric vehicle (EV) yet, previewing a sub-€20,000 (around NZ$36,600) model set to launch in 2027.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOFLIP

// AutoFlip: A Genuine Advancement

Whether you’re looking to sell your inventory or expand it, AutoFlip offers Kiwi dealers a road paved with convenience and expert personal support. Learn more on the AutoFlip website.

Dealers are finding AutoFlip is the simplest way to buy quality stock quickly, with a wide range of vehicles listed daily. Selling stock is just as simple, AutoFlip leverages technology to make it easy and fast for all dealers to wholesale vehicles and get better margins.

No sign up fees, no listing fees. Register now to start buying and selling stock

STATS WEEK

// New vehicle market faces continued challenges

New vehicle registrations in New Zealand in January 2025 totalled 10,863 units, a 14.1% decline from January 2024 and a 13.0% drop from January 2023.

// NZ new-vehicle sales January: ‘subdued’ numbers, but there’s a new ute in the top 10

The arrow is still pointing downwards as the New Zealand new-vehicle industry gets under way for 2025, with January registrations of 10,863 down 14.1% on the same period last year and a 13% drop on January 2023.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Merger of equals on a knife edge?

Reports suggest Nissan is set to call off talks with compatriot Honda over a merger of the two Japanese powerhouses.

// Cold weather slashes EV range by 20% on average: study

A recent study has confirmed what many electric vehicle (EV) owners already suspect – freezing temperatures significantly reduce driving range.

CARJOBS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Workshop Controller

Farmer Motor Group Limited   | Whitianga, Waikato

Beat the traffic and live by the beach. Work for a successful, award-winning family owned business.
Competitive remuneration, ongoing training, and career development.

// Reconditioning Assistant

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Hamilton

Work with a fun and dynamic team. Well renowned NZ business. Great culture where employees are genuinely valued.

// Used or New Car Salesperson

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Gisborne

Great Income. Rostered weekends off. Company car with fuel included. Sell Gisborne’s biggest selection of Used Vehicles. Work with a fun team.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Ford CEO: We Need EREVs Because Americans ‘Love Their Big Trucks’

Extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) are a step between hybrids and EVs, with internal combustion motors that act as generators on longer trips.

ONE LINERS

SPONSORED BY BOOST AUTO

Give your dealership the boost it needs in 2025 by focussing on improving the stuff that matters.

Support your sales teams to chase down leads better, respond better, understand customers better, product demonstrate better and close more leads more professionally while spending less time doing it, with our in dealership or remote Teams based sales training.

For more details, email anthony@boostauto.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 7th, 20252025-02-07T02:43:48+13:00

February 6th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Auto centre opens in Northland

AA facility in Whangarei brings network to 38 with more planned.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// AA Insurance, Drive Group to open new West Aukland repair centre

AA Insurance has announced the opening of a new motor vehicle collision repair centre in West Auckland in partnership with Drive Group.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOFLIP

// AutoFlip: A Genuine Advancement

Whether you’re looking to sell your inventory or expand it, AutoFlip offers Kiwi dealers a road paved with convenience and expert personal support. Learn more on the AutoFlip website.

Dealers are finding AutoFlip is the simplest way to buy quality stock quickly, with a wide range of vehicles listed daily. Selling stock is just as simple, AutoFlip leverages technology to make it easy and fast for all dealers to wholesale vehicles and get better margins.

No sign up fees, no listing fees. Register now to start buying and selling stock

STATS WEEK

// Used imports tumble

Year-on-year drop for sector but passenger vehicle numbers steady on

// January new car sales reveal a struggling market

The figures are in for new vehicle sales over the first month of 2025, and they aren’t great. Registrations totalled 10,863 units, a 14.1% decrease compared to January 2024 and a 13% drop on January 2023.

// New passenger car arrivals down 15.6% m/m in January

The number of new and used vehicles arriving at New Zealand ports in January 2025 saw a month-on-month decrease of 668 units, with a total of 15,195 units landing.

// Auto lending drops 8.4% in January – Centrix

Demand for automotive lending was down 8.4% year-on-year in January as new car sales continued to decline, while overall consumer credit demand began the year 1% lower compared to the same period last year.

// Challenges continue for new vehicle market – MIA

A downturn in New Zealand’s new vehicle registrations highlights continued market adjustments driven by broader economic pressures and shifting buyer behaviours.

// Challenges continue for market

Industry figures show downward trend across all new-vehicle segments.

IN OTHER NEWS

// BYD Shark 6 towing concerns are being addressed

BYD is addressing concerns customers have over some aspects of towing, including weight limitations, of its Shark 6 hybrid ute….

// Paving the way for roadway EV charging

As EVs become more common (annual EV sales are estimated to reach 7.2 million by 2030) innovative new methods are being developed to more easily charge them.

// Nissan Leads With Top Aussie New Vehicle Warranty

Nissan Australia is extending its new vehicle warranty to 10-year/300,000km on all new vehicles sold from January 1 this year….

CARJOBS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Workshop Controller

Farmer Motor Group Limited   | Whitianga, Waikato

Beat the traffic and live by the beach. Work for a successful, award-winning family owned business.
Competitive remuneration, ongoing training, and career development.

// Reconditioning Assistant

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Hamilton

Work with a fun and dynamic team. Well renowned NZ business. Great culture where employees are genuinely valued.

// Used or New Car Salesperson

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Gisborne

Great Income. Rostered weekends off. Company car with fuel included. Sell Gisborne’s biggest selection of Used Vehicles. Work with a fun team.

ONE LINERS

SPONSORED BY BOOST AUTO

Give your dealership the boost it needs in 2025 by focussing on improving the stuff that matters.

Support your sales teams to chase down leads better, respond better, understand customers better, product demonstrate better and close more leads more professionally while spending less time doing it, with our in dealership or remote Teams based sales training.

For more details, email anthony@boostauto.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 6th, 20252025-02-05T19:01:13+13:00

February 5th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Hyundai Tucson II for New Zealand: Korean maker stretches the appeal of its hybrid SUV

Hyundai New Zealand is set to launch an updated “Series II” version of its Tucson medium SUV, with hybrid technology now right across the range.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOFLIP

// AutoFlip: A Genuine Advancement

Whether you’re looking to sell your inventory or expand it, AutoFlip offers Kiwi dealers a road paved with convenience and expert personal support. Learn more on the AutoFlip website.

Dealers are finding AutoFlip is the simplest way to buy quality stock quickly, with a wide range of vehicles listed daily. Selling stock is just as simple, AutoFlip leverages technology to make it easy and fast for all dealers to wholesale vehicles and get better margins.

No sign up fees, no listing fees. Register now to start buying and selling stock

BEST OF THE REST

// AutoTalk Live returns to Auckland, powered by Clipped Assist + Duraseal

AutoTalk Live, the premier event for automotive dealers and industry professionals, is set to return to Auckland on May 8, 2025,

IN OTHER NEWS

// Ford NZ elevates Cameron Thomas to company director

Ford New Zealand has appointed Cameron Thomas to the newly created role of network strategy director, in addition to being appointed as a company director to ensure strong governance and oversight.

// Vehicle-loan demand slides

Number of people behind on credit repayments climbs as experts say economic outlook for 2025 is unclear.

// Hatch-only range arrives

Four variants, including one hybrid, make up the Mazda3’s line-up for new model year.

CARJOBS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Workshop Controller

Farmer Motor Group Limited   | Whitianga, Waikato

Beat the traffic and live by the beach. Work for a successful, award-winning family owned business.
Competitive remuneration, ongoing training, and career development.

// Reconditioning Assistant

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Hamilton

Work with a fun and dynamic team. Well renowned NZ business. Great culture where employees are genuinely valued.

// Used or New Car Salesperson

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Gisborne

Great Income. Rostered weekends off. Company car with fuel included. Sell Gisborne’s biggest selection of Used Vehicles. Work with a fun team.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// A Chinese Smartphone Giant Built Its Own Car. Sales Have Been Incredible

When the SUV version launches later this year, we expect it to be an even bigger hit.

ONE LINERS

SPONSORED BY BOOST AUTO

Give your dealership the boost it needs in 2025 by focussing on improving the stuff that matters.

Support your sales teams to chase down leads better, respond better, understand customers better, product demonstrate better and close more leads more professionally while spending less time doing it, with our in dealership or remote Teams based sales training.

For more details, email anthony@boostauto.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 5th, 20252025-02-04T21:55:59+13:00

February 4th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Crichton’s Ateco Group secure ongoing BYD deal

Neville Crichton’s Ateco Group has renewed its New Zealand distribution contract with BYD Automotive.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Colonial’s profits to drop

Company chairman predicts decrease of one-fifth in pre-tax profit for half-year.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Carolyn McMahon appointed as Honda New Zealand president

Honda has appointed Carolyn McMahon as Honda New Zealand president, effective April 1, 2025.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Tesla Cybertruck has been doing the rounds down under

The Tesla Cybertruck tour that dotted down in Australia appears to be over.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOFLIP

// AutoFlip: A Genuine Advancement

Whether you’re looking to sell your inventory or expand it, AutoFlip offers Kiwi dealers a road paved with convenience and expert personal support. Learn more on the AutoFlip website.

Dealers are finding AutoFlip is the simplest way to buy quality stock quickly, with a wide range of vehicles listed daily. Selling stock is just as simple, AutoFlip leverages technology to make it easy and fast for all dealers to wholesale vehicles and get better margins.

No sign up fees, no listing fees. Register now to start buying and selling stock

STATS WEEK

// New-car market steady

Toyota RAV4 and Kia Seltos take out January’s top two spots after year-on-year increase in registrations.

// Imports continue fall

The market for used imports continued to struggle in January, with a massive drop in particular for passenger – though with this time last year the first month without the Clean Car Discount, it is hard to pin down the actual trend.

// January 2025 new vehicle market: BYD’s Shark makes waves

The new vehicle market in January 2025 showed a mixed performance, with passenger vehicle registrations holding steady while the commercial sector faced some challenges.

// Shark swims into top four

BYD’s plug-in hybrid ute only behind Hilux, Ranger and Triton in monthly sales charts for new commercials.

IN OTHER NEWS

// 2025 Toyota Prius debuts geo-fencing tech and enhanced PHEV range

Toyota has added new features to the 2025 Toyota Prius, including an advanced geo-fencing system designed to optimise the balance between electric and hybrid driving.

// ‘NZ’s largest solar farm’ due to start construction this year

Harmony Energy Limited and Clarus company First Renewables Limited have approved the final investment for the Tauhei Solar Farm project with construction expected to begin this year on the 182-hectare site near Te Aroha.

// Simplifying motor assessing for Tower repairers

Following a successful trial with some repairers, Panel Quote and Hello Claims have begun rolling out a software integration to the broader New Zealand collision repair industry.

CARJOBS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Workshop Controller

Farmer Motor Group Limited   | Whitianga, Waikato

Beat the traffic and live by the beach. Work for a successful, award-winning family owned business.
Competitive remuneration, ongoing training, and career development.

// Reconditioning Assistant

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Hamilton

Work with a fun and dynamic team. Well renowned NZ business. Great culture where employees are genuinely valued.

// Reconditioning Assistant

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Hamilton

Work with a fun and dynamic team. Well renowned NZ business. Great culture where employees are genuinely valued.

// Used or New Car Salesperson

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Gisborne

Great Income. Rostered weekends off. Company car with fuel included. Sell Gisborne’s biggest selection of Used Vehicles. Work with a fun team.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Cutting-edge Renault Filante concept hopes to break EV efficiency records

The new Renault Filante Record 2025 concept is a racy, aerodynamically-sculpted piece of rolling electric lab equipment designed to push the envelope of energy efficiency and set new records for power consumption and range.

ONE LINERS

SPONSORED BY BOOST AUTO

Give your dealership the boost it needs in 2025 by focussing on improving the stuff that matters.

Support your sales teams to chase down leads better, respond better, understand customers better, product demonstrate better and close more leads more professionally while spending less time doing it, with our in dealership or remote Teams based sales training.

For more details, email anthony@boostauto.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 4th, 20252025-02-04T02:43:47+13:00

February 3rd, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// BMW unleashes first-ever M3 CS Touring at Bathurst

BMW has taken the wraps off the first ever M3 CS Touring at Bathurst, a seriously high-performance family wagon that is set to remain forbidden fruit for Kiwis.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Global Lexus sales reach a record high in 2024

Lexus reports that its 2024 global sales results from January to December 2024 reached a record high of 851,214 units (a 103.3% increase compared to the previous year).

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOFLIP

// AutoFlip: A Genuine Advancement

Whether you’re looking to sell your inventory or expand it, AutoFlip offers Kiwi dealers a road paved with convenience and expert personal support. Learn more on the AutoFlip website.

Dealers are finding AutoFlip is the simplest way to buy quality stock quickly, with a wide range of vehicles listed daily. Selling stock is just as simple, AutoFlip leverages technology to make it easy and fast for all dealers to wholesale vehicles and get better margins.

No sign up fees, no listing fees. Register now to start buying and selling stock

BEST OF THE REST

// New GWM Cannon ute for New Zealand powers up and tows more

The GWM Cannon ute is stepping up to a larger engine and increased towing capacity, in an upgraded model that goes on sale in New Zealand from February.

IN OTHER NEWS

// A 14-and-a-half year job interview: Giltrap Group’s new leader on stepping up to the challenge

A significant shift in leadership is underway at the Giltrap Group, with former CEO of Motorcorp (NZ distributor of Jaguar and Land Rover, and part of the wider Giltrap Group) Steve Kenchington stepping into the role of overseeing the operation,

// Sedan dropped from 2025 Mazda3 line-up

Reflecting dwindling demand for mass-market sedans, Mazda New Zealand will only offer four versions of the Mazda3 hatchback for its 2025 small car line-up.

// GWM Releases Cannon ute pricing and specifications

The new Cannon will be available to order from GWM dealerships in February 2025, with local specifications and pricing confirmed.

// Tesla eyes new showroom

Marque set to establish itself at retail centre on outskirts of Auckland.

// Warranties out to seven years

LDV’s coverage “significant step” in enhancing consumer confidence.

// Jaguar’s bold shift: NZ dealers to focus on Land Rover as Jaguar pivots to super luxury

The future of Jaguar and Land Rover in New Zealand is undergoing a significant shift, as the brands navigate an ever-changing automotive landscape with a new pair of hands on the wheel.

CARJOBS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Workshop Controller

Farmer Motor Group Limited   | Whitianga, Waikato

Beat the traffic and live by the beach. Work for a successful, award-winning family owned business.
Competitive remuneration, ongoing training, and career development.

// Reconditioning Assistant

Enterprise Motor Group  |  Hamilton

Work with a fun and dynamic team. Well renowned NZ business. Great culture where employees are genuinely valued.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// The Second-Life EV Battery Market Could Be Worth Billions By 2035

The EV industry is poised to embrace the recycling and repurposing of EV batteries. But huge bottlenecks would need to be cleared before that market takes off.

ONE LINERS

SPONSORED BY BOOST AUTO

Give your dealership the boost it needs in 2025 by focussing on improving the stuff that matters.

Support your sales teams to chase down leads better, respond better, understand customers better, product demonstrate better and close more leads more professionally while spending less time doing it, with our in dealership or remote Teams based sales training.

For more details, email anthony@boostauto.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

February 3rd, 20252025-02-02T21:54:34+13:00
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