NZ Automotive Industry News

June 6th, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// Yaris Cross sales on hold

Toyota NZ also halts imports of hybrid model after certification irregularities emerge in Japan.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New Mercedes-Benz C 200 Night Edition launched in New Zealand

Mercedes-Benz has introduced the highly anticipated C 200 Night Edition in New Zealand.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Tesla top new BEV seller in May

May marks the fifth month of a steep decline in new light passenger registrations, a hard hit for the industry, says the Motor Industry Association (MIA).

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Stop paying too much for vehicle background reports

Autocheck offers comprehensive, live data reports without the weight of monthly fees. Designed for the dynamic dealer, our platform is as nimble on mobile as on desktop.

Don’t take our word for it, take theirs!

“If you’re on the fence about moving to Autocheck, I’d say get off and join up. It’s a great product run by great people.”

  • Paul Burborough, Dealer Principal, Winger Motors Hamilton & Pukekohe

Choose the Kiwi option that understands New Zealand dealers, big and small. Call Mike on 021 410 134 for a demo that will drive your decisions and your dollar further.

Switch gears to smarter savings with Autocheck

BEST OF THE REST

// All-new 2025 BMW 1 Series set for NZ launch

BMW New Zealand is set to introduce the all-new fourth-generation BMW 1 Series hatchback, marking a leap forward in design, powertrains and technology.

IN OTHER NEWS

// From Hart to Hart at Manawatu and TRC Toyota

Fraser Hart will replace his sister-in-law Debbie Hart as chief executive officer at Manawatu Toyota from June 1, 2024.

// Ford says drivers will be able to take eyes off the road in two years

Ford Motor Co. is just two years away from offering technology that will allow drivers to take their eyes off the road and their hands off the wheel in the US, according to Chief Executive Officer Jim Farley.

// Suzuki confirms Kiwi pricing for new-look Swift

Suzuki New Zealand has unveiled its new-look Swift line-up, complete with new local pricing.

// Ford Capri to live again?

Ford will have another electric SUV soon, well in Europe at least, with a sportier version of the Explorer planned and to be named Capri.

// Dealer numbers extend slide

Latest figures show total has fallen for three months in a row but it remains higher than at the same stage a year ago.

SPONSORED BY vDog.ai

// Quickly write vehicle descriptions that sell

In only minutes per vehicle you can have a feature-rich vehicle descriptions with well-written introductions that show your customers you care about the vehicles you sell.

“ Highly recommend signing up and using vDog! It’s been a great help, not only for the easy process to use, but also all the positive increase we’ve had on listing views and enquiries! Certainly helps add a whole new character to our listings. “

  • Garth Martin, Sales Executive, Ingham Great Lake, Taupo, NZ

With vDog.ai, it’s cheap and easy.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Ford considers EV battery swapping via drive-up docking stations

A recently surfaced patent application from Ford envisions a new type of EV battery swapping system.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

June 6th, 20242024-06-05T20:17:31+12:00

June 5th, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// Industry legend honoured

Fred Lewis, of Enterprise Cars, has been made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit. A pioneer of New Zealand’s car industry has been honoured for services to sport and philanthropy.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Government roadworthy – just: MTA

The Motor Trade Association (MTA) has given the Government a friendly warrant of fitness (WoF) inspection after six months in office, but it says work is needed.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// As NZ’s new car sales struggle, ute sales grow

New Zealand’s new-car market recorded another tough month of results in May, although it wasn’t without its silver linings.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Stop paying too much for vehicle background reports

Autocheck offers comprehensive, live data reports without the weight of monthly fees. Designed for the dynamic dealer, our platform is as nimble on mobile as on desktop.

Don’t take our word for it, take theirs!

“If you’re on the fence about moving to Autocheck, I’d say get off and join up. It’s a great product run by great people.”

  • Paul Burborough, Dealer Principal, Winger Motors Hamilton & Pukekohe

Choose the Kiwi option that understands New Zealand dealers, big and small. Call Mike on 021 410 134 for a demo that will drive your decisions and your dollar further.

Switch gears to smarter savings with Autocheck

BEST OF THE REST

// Nissan AV tested on public roads ready for 2027

Nissan has begun demonstrations of a prototype vehicle equipped with its in-house-developed autonomous drive technologies, showcasing progress in its goal towards rolling out autonomous mobility services within fiscal year 2027 (April 1 to March 31).

IN OTHER NEWS

// End-of-life EV batteries to recharge EVs

Counties Energy has launched its “berm battery” energy storage system using 18 repurposed Nissan Leaf batteries for recharging EVs.

// Toyota apologises for cheating on vehicle testing, halts production of three models

Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda apologised Monday for massive cheating on certification tests for seven vehicle models as the automaker suspended production of three of them.

SPONSORED BY vDog.ai

// Quickly write vehicle descriptions that sell

In only minutes per vehicle you can have a feature-rich vehicle descriptions with well-written introductions that show your customers you care about the vehicles you sell.

“ Highly recommend signing up and using vDog! It’s been a great help, not only for the easy process to use, but also all the positive increase we’ve had on listing views and enquiries! Certainly helps add a whole new character to our listings. “

  • Garth Martin, Sales Executive, Ingham Great Lake, Taupo, NZ

With vDog.ai, it’s cheap and easy.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// EV Battery Swapping Means Less Downtime For Fleets

The Chinese startup U Power stirs the EV battery swapping pot, deploying guided robotic vehicles for speed and efficiency. Image courtesy of UPower.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

June 5th, 20242024-06-05T01:38:03+12:00

June 4th, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// New-car sales down 33%

Registrations of Mitsubishi’s ASX climb year on year as Toyota RAV4’s drop.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Stop paying too much for vehicle background reports

Autocheck offers comprehensive, live data reports without the weight of monthly fees. Designed for the dynamic dealer, our platform is as nimble on mobile as on desktop.

Don’t take our word for it, take theirs!

“If you’re on the fence about moving to Autocheck, I’d say get off and join up. It’s a great product run by great people.”

  • Paul Burborough, Dealer Principal, Winger Motors Hamilton & Pukekohe

Choose the Kiwi option that understands New Zealand dealers, big and small. Call Mike on 021 410 134 for a demo that will drive your decisions and your dollar further.

Switch gears to smarter savings with Autocheck

BEST OF THE REST

// Mazda mulls building new rotary sports car

Last week, in a joint conference with Toyota and Subaru, Mazda revealed an intriguing development related to its future internal combustion engines (ICE).

IN OTHER NEWS

// 2026 Toyota MR2: mid-engined sports coupe revival now within reach

Toyota is preparing a series of exciting launches set to begin in 2025. The Japanese automotive giant is not only planning to introduce new versions of its GR Supra and GR86 but also finally aiming to resurrect the beloved MR2 sports coupe.

// AI could change how we charge EVs forever—here’s how

Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to transform electric vehicle (EV) charging, making it more reliable and efficient.

SPONSORED BY vDog.ai

// Quickly write vehicle descriptions that sell

In only minutes per vehicle you can have a feature-rich vehicle descriptions with well-written introductions that show your customers you care about the vehicles you sell.

“ Highly recommend signing up and using vDog! It’s been a great help, not only for the easy process to use, but also all the positive increase we’ve had on listing views and enquiries! Certainly helps add a whole new character to our listings. “

  • Garth Martin, Sales Executive, Ingham Great Lake, Taupo, NZ

With vDog.ai, it’s cheap and easy.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Jeep Wagoneer 3-row SUV will go electric too—with range-extender

At the reveal of its Jeep Wagoneer S electric SUV, the Stellantis SUV brand on Thursday confirmed plans to push ahead with what potentially might amount to a great many different electrified powertrain options across its lineup later in the decade.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

June 4th, 20242024-06-04T01:11:00+12:00

June 3rd, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// Jeep’s first global battery electric SUV introduced

The 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S is the brand’s first global battery electric vehicle (BEV) which will launch initially in the US and Canada later this year before becoming available in other global markets.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Quest’s profits climb

Geneva Finance’s insurance division reports jump in written premium of 18 per cent.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Stop paying too much for vehicle background reports

Autocheck offers comprehensive, live data reports without the weight of monthly fees. Designed for the dynamic dealer, our platform is as nimble on mobile as on desktop.

Don’t take our word for it, take theirs!

“If you’re on the fence about moving to Autocheck, I’d say get off and join up. It’s a great product run by great people.”

  • Paul Burborough, Dealer Principal, Winger Motors Hamilton & Pukekohe

Choose the Kiwi option that understands New Zealand dealers, big and small. Call Mike on 021 410 134 for a demo that will drive your decisions and your dollar further.

Switch gears to smarter savings with Autocheck

BEST OF THE REST

// Matamata Panelworks buys Almac Cars

Matamata Panelworks, renowned for its crash repairs, epic custom builds and home of Shelby New Zealand, has purchased the Almac Cars business to add to its portfolio.

IN OTHER NEWS

// A Fiat 500 mild hybrid is in the works

Fiat has confirmed its 500 city car will get a mild hybrid sib as an alternative to the 500e model.

// MTF’s loan book tops $1.1b

Strong revenue growth and returns for originators underpin half-year result.

// 80 new chargers coming to supermarkets across New Zealand

You might already be familiar with the sight of a Tesla plugged in at your local Pak ‘n Save, and it’s about become a lot more common.

// VW skips partnerships, will build cheap EVs on its own

Volkswagen AG has decided to develop electric cars priced at €20,000 ($35,000) in Europe, deciding against partnering with peers in the struggle to compete with cheap models from China.

SPONSORED BY vDog.ai

// Quickly write vehicle descriptions that sell

In only minutes per vehicle you can have a feature-rich vehicle descriptions with well-written introductions that show your customers you care about the vehicles you sell.

“ Highly recommend signing up and using vDog! It’s been a great help, not only for the easy process to use, but also all the positive increase we’ve had on listing views and enquiries! Certainly helps add a whole new character to our listings. “

  • Garth Martin, Sales Executive, Ingham Great Lake, Taupo, NZ

With vDog.ai, it’s cheap and easy.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Jim Farley & Mary Barra Discuss Their Hybrid & Plug-in Hybrid Plans

At a conference last week, Ford CEO Jim Farley and GM CEO Mary Barra served up two contradictory visions of the path forward for electrified vehicles.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

June 3rd, 20242024-06-03T01:02:18+12:00

May 31st, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// MG finds new partner in Hawke’s Bay

Marque teams up with Bayswater Vehicles Motor Group to open in Hastings and Napier.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota celebrates ‘most trusted’ brand recognition

Toyota New Zealand says its commitment to a “customer-centric culture and community investment” has helped earn it two Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand Awards, for new and used vehicles.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// EV owners have only hours left to register for RUCs

Owners of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles have until tomorrow to buy their first road user charges (RUCs) licence.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// BYD launches next-gen plug-in hybrid system with 2100km range

BYD has introduced the fifth generation of its acclaimed DM technology at a press conference in Xian, China.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Corroded bodywork raises concerns among owners of popular SUV

While pleased BYD’s national distributor has spent what he believes was thousands in a rust repair to his Atto 3 electric car, a Northland man is wondering how many others have the same issue.

// ChargeNet and Foodstuffs expand Kiwi EV charging network

Foodstuffs (New World, Pak’nSave, Four Square) and ChargeNet plan to build at least 80 new EV charging sites at Foodstuffs’ supermarkets across the country during the next four years.

// MTF Finance reports strong vehicle dealer earnings

MTF Finance has reported a growth in new loans of 7% and originators (franchises and vehicle dealers) earnings up 17% to $47.5 million and its loan book has grown 10% to $1.1b for its half-year result to March 31.

// Toyota, Mazda and Subaru join forces on new combustion engines

Three big Japanese manufacturers are pooling their resources on refining the combustion engine, but instead of working on one common engine, Toyota, Mazda and Subaru will build “signature engines” that represent each brand.

SPONSORED BY vDog.ai

// Quickly write vehicle descriptions that sell

In only minutes per vehicle you can have a feature-rich vehicle descriptions with well-written introductions that show your customers you care about the vehicles you sell.

“ Highly recommend signing up and using vDog! It’s been a great help, not only for the easy process to use, but also all the positive increase we’ve had on listing views and enquiries! Certainly helps add a whole new character to our listings. “

  • Garth Martin, Sales Executive, Ingham Great Lake, Taupo, NZ

With vDog.ai, it’s cheap and easy.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// 2026 Chevy Bolt Will Be ‘Most Affordable’ EV On The Market, GM Says

With NACS and an LFP battery, the next-gen Bolt could be an absolute grand slam for GM.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

May 31st, 20242024-05-30T23:34:17+12:00

May 30th, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// Porsche 911 GTS goes lightweight hybrid for better performance

The 911 has entered new territory. No, it hasn’t gone fully electric, though it has added a motor.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// 2025 BMW M3 facelift receives power boost, all-digital dash

BMW has taken the wraps off the latest iterations of its revered M3 lineup, introducing the new M3 Sedan and M3 Touring.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Subaru, Toyota and Mazda aren’t done with engines yet

Subaru, Toyota and Mazda are teaming up to develop new engines tailored to electrification.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// What all EV drivers need to do before Friday

From the 1st of April electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) became subject to Road User Charges (RUCs), with owners being given a two month grace period to buy their first RUC licence before enforcement of the scheme began.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Tower reports $36m half-year profit

Tower Limited has reported an underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) of NZ$36.6 million for the half-year ending March 31, 2024,

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// A new home for MG in Hawkes Bay

It’s a fresh start for MG in Hawkes Bay. Bayswater Vehicles Motor Group is partnering with MG New Zealand to represent the growing vehicle brand in Napier and Hastings.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Audi celebrates 25 years of RS 4 with limited edition

It’s been 25 years since Audi first debuted the Audi RS4 (B5) technically the first RS model to come from quattro GmbH (now Audi Sport GmbH) the precursor being the Audi RS2 and S6 Plus.

// BYD reveals ‘Fifth-Generation DM Technology’ revolutionising PHEVs

BYD’s Fifth-Generation DM Technology has 46.06% thermal efficiency, 2.9L/100km low fuel consumption, and a remarkable 2100km range.

SPONSORED BY vDog.ai

// Quickly write vehicle descriptions that sell

In only minutes per vehicle you can have a feature-rich vehicle descriptions with well-written introductions that show your customers you care about the vehicles you sell.

“ Highly recommend signing up and using vDog! It’s been a great help, not only for the easy process to use, but also all the positive increase we’ve had on listing views and enquiries! Certainly helps add a whole new character to our listings. “

  • Garth Martin, Sales Executive, Ingham Great Lake, Taupo, NZ

With vDog.ai, it’s cheap and easy.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Here’s how wireless charging could cut costs for commercial EVs

Two recent wireless charging pilot programs show the potential for the technology’s use with commercial EV fleets.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

May 30th, 20242024-05-30T01:11:40+12:00

May 29th, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// MotorSport NZ elects new president

MotorSport New Zealand has announced the official election of Deborah Day as the organisation’s new president.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// BYD Shark PHEV ute lands in New Zealand: first local pictures

A local in the know has shared these images of the first BYD Shark to land in Auckland, New Zealand with DRIVEN Car Guide, ahead of the model’s launch at Fieldays, Mystery Creek (June 12-15).

IN OTHER NEWS

// Lancia gets its mojo back with the Ypslion HF and Rally 4 HF

Stellantis, one of the largest car manufacturers has many brands under its umbrella but for what seems like a very long time Lancia has been the unloved stepchild in the group

// Get to grips with carbon footprint

Industry association webinar to provide insights on how companies can manage their impact on the environment.

// Carmakers flag difficult year on costs, muted EV demand

Automakers across Europe and Asia are warning of a challenging year as rising costs and waning demand for electric vehicles weigh on profits.

// MG EVs with solid-state batteries could arrive in 2026

Chinese automotive giant SAIC Motor (better known as the company behind MG) is gearing up for mass production of cutting-edge solid-state batteries by 2026.

SPONSORED BY vDog.ai

// Quickly write vehicle descriptions that sell

In only minutes per vehicle you can have a feature-rich vehicle descriptions with well-written introductions that show your customers you care about the vehicles you sell.

“ Highly recommend signing up and using vDog! It’s been a great help, not only for the easy process to use, but also all the positive increase we’ve had on listing views and enquiries! Certainly helps add a whole new character to our listings. “

  • Garth Martin, Sales Executive, Ingham Great Lake, Taupo, NZ

With vDog.ai, it’s cheap and easy.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Geely Becomes A Top 10 Automaker Globally

Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, which also includes Volvo Cars, has become the 10th best selling automaker in the world.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

May 29th, 20242024-05-28T20:51:31+12:00

May 28th, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// Chinese seven-seaters pull full safety marks in latest tests

GWM’s just-released Tank 500 has been given five stars from ANCAP, following the identical rating for the smaller Tank 300, as has the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota, Bridgestone among Reader’s Digest ‘most trusted’ brands for 2024

Toyota and Bridgestone have secured their positions as two of the most trusted brands in New Zealand, according to the 2024 Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brands survey.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// After EV3 reveal, Kia plans cheaper, smaller follow-up with 2026 EV2

Kia has shared new plans to expand its electric vehicle (EV) lineup anew with the EV2, set to become the smallest and most affordable model in its range by 2026.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Jaecoo set to launch in New Zealand with the J7

Chinese newcomer Omoda’s sibling brand, Jaecoo, is set to arrive in New Zealand this July with the J7 SUV.

// Tech heavy hitters join FTN Motion

Former Dyson chief executive Roland Krueger joins Kiwi automotive start-up FTN Motion as a shareholder

// Could Yangwang Auto come to New Zealand?

Who are Yangwang Auto? Yangwang Auto is a Chinese luxury electric car brand founded in 2023 and is owned by BYD Auto with three current offerings costing over $200,000 NZD.

// New directors for banking group

Heartland announces appointment of pair with 50 years of industry experience between them.

// Italian transformation: Electric Maserati line-up confirmed for NZ

Having brought its all-new Grecale SUV to market last year, the reinvention of luxury carmaker Maserati’s line-up is set to continue,

SPONSORED BY vDog.ai

// Quickly write vehicle descriptions that sell

In only minutes per vehicle you can have a feature-rich vehicle descriptions with well-written introductions that show your customers you care about the vehicles you sell.

“ Highly recommend signing up and using vDog! It’s been a great help, not only for the easy process to use, but also all the positive increase we’ve had on listing views and enquiries! Certainly helps add a whole new character to our listings. “

  • Garth Martin, Sales Executive, Ingham Great Lake, Taupo, NZ

With vDog.ai, it’s cheap and easy.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// This startup is about to install bladeless rooftop wind turbines on box buildings

Aeromine Technologies just closed a $9 million funding round, and it’s ready to scale up production of its bladeless rooftop wind turbines.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

May 28th, 20242024-05-27T21:03:12+12:00

May 27th, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// 2 Cheap posts record $6.2m profit for FY24

2 Cheap Cars Group has reported a record net profit after tax (NPAT) of $6.2 million for the full year ending March 31, 2024, an increase of $4.9m over the previous financial year year.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT

Jazz Print

// Let’s Jazz you up!

For all your Automotive needs:

Number Plate Surrounds  |  Registration Holders  |  Flags and Accessories  |  WOF and Service Decals  |  Key Rings and Service Tags |  Window Decals  |  Printing and Stationery  |  Promotional Products

For orders and enquiries:

sales@jazzprint.co.nz  |  0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// Jeep Avenger 4xe hybrid added to Avenger line-up

The addition of the Jeep Avenger 4xe to the line-up brings AWD and hybrid goodness to the compact SUV’s table.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Impressive EV3 requires a wait

Kiwis keen to get their hands on Kia’s new EV3 small SUV may have a wait ahead of them, with deliveries not due to land here until the first quarter of 2025.

// Volkswagen Adds Multivan 7 TDI to the PHEV variant

Volkswagen has added another model to its people mover line-up with the introduction of the Multivan 7 TDI. It joins the existing plug-in hybrid (PHEV) petrol-electric powertrain.

// NZTA to axe 24 more jobs in third round of proposed cuts

The New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi has announced it proposes to axe 24 more jobs. They will likely be culled from the engagement and partnerships team.

// NZTA registers breached

Agency investigating privacy breach after illegal access of information held on registers.

SPONSORED BY vDog.ai

// Quickly write vehicle descriptions that sell

In only minutes per vehicle you can have a feature-rich vehicle descriptions with well-written introductions that show your customers you care about the vehicles you sell.

“ Highly recommend signing up and using vDog! It’s been a great help, not only for the easy process to use, but also all the positive increase we’ve had on listing views and enquiries! Certainly helps add a whole new character to our listings. “

  • Garth Martin, Sales Executive, Ingham Great Lake, Taupo, NZ

With vDog.ai, it’s cheap and easy.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Reach Enables Wireless Power Mesh Networking for In-Flight Drone Charging

Under a BAA (Broad Agency Announcement) funded project with Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), Reach, the Wireless Power-at-a-Distance company developed and demonstrated a groundbreaking radio frequency (RF) based wireless power transfer (WPT) system for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

May 27th, 20242024-05-26T20:09:06+12:00

May 24th, 2024

HOT TOPIC

// PureSpeed concept previews Mercedes-AMG Mythos series

A production version of the PureSpeed concept two-seat speedster you see here will disrobe next year as the first car in the Mercedes-AMG Mythos series.

// More on this 

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BEST OF THE REST

// Greater ANZAC spirit for Honda could net EVs for NZ

Further strengthening of a long-standing corporate tie between Honda’s operations in New Zealand and Australia could open the door to more mutually acceptable models, but Kiwis cannot expect return of a past star that keeps on selling across the Tasman.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Hyundai N74 hydrogen supercar reportedly expected in 2026

New reports out of South Korea have sparked excitement among enthusiasts, hinting at the imminent arrival of Hyundai’s long-awaited N74 hydrogen supercar.

// GM ANZ boss named Woman of Worth finalist

General Motors Australia and New Zealand managing director Jess Bala has been named one of ten finalists in the Woman of Worth (WOW) Award, a Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) initiative.

// Funeral arrangements confirmed for Simon Meade

Funeral arrangements have been confirmed for Simon Meade, Suzuki New Zealand’s executive general manager of motorcycle, marine, and after-sales, who died following a motor vehicle crash on May 18.

// Changes at Honda NZ

Long-serving employees appointed to new roles with marque, while board maintains ties with Australian colleagues.

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// All you need to say right now is “Yeah, I use AI in my dealership”

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INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// The Electric Car Revolution Is Still On Track, Says Cox Automotive

The latest report from Cox Automotive says electric car technology is gaining traction, if more slowly than many would like.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Automotive Workshop Manager / Controller

Robertson Prestige, Palmerston North

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.

May 24th, 20242024-05-23T21:03:35+12:00
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