NZ Automotive Industry News

HOT TOPIC

// Armstrongs confirms BAIC’s Arcfox EV brand for New Zealand

Armstrongs confirms that Arcfox, the premium electric vehicle (EV) brand of Chinese automaker BAIC Group, will launch in New Zealand

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says Arcfox confirmed for Kiwi launch in June: who’s up for another new EV brand?

HOT TOPIC

// Kiwi tests for PHEV ute

JAC has officially begun its New Zealand pre-launch testing programme for the T9 PHEV, marking the next step in bringing the electrified workhorse to Kiwis.

• Read this article on Autofile

// More on this

• AutoTrader says JAC Hunter PHEV has all the specs

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Use the best tool for the job

Vehicle reports built for the automotive industry, getting you live data in seconds, including PPSR checks, sale documents, CIN cards, VOSA forms and more. Mobile-friendly, easy to use, backed by local support, and trusted by industry leaders.

“It’s clear that the Autocheck team understands the industry’s day-to-day operations …” – Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… the digital signing capability is spectacular when buying stock privately.” – Sean Pearce, General Manager, Pearce Brothers

Call Mike 021 410 134 or visit AutoCheck.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// Ford considers electric Bronco for New Zealand

Ford New Zealand is evaluating the Chinese-built Bronco New Energy for the local market, though the company remains tight-lipped

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// Back-to-back falls for register

Back-to-back falls for register Trader numbers dip as total edges closer towards the recent low point of September last year.

• Read this article on Autofile

IN OTHER NEWS

// Lexus reveals three row TZ, coming to NZ

Lexus has revealed the TZ, an electric three-row SUV that the company says has been designed to combine the brand’s signature driving character

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// EV interest doubles as charging use surges, affordability seen as next hurdle

Consumer interest in electric vehicles is rising rapidly in New Zealand, with new data from ChargeNet pointing to growing demand

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// Transport industry backs Road Safety Week push

Transporting New Zealand is backing Road Safety Week, running from May 4–10, as the industry calls for improved driver behaviour

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Suzuki Swift tops 1000km range in NZ fuel economy test

The latest Suzuki Swift has delivered fuel economy results exceeding official figures in an independent test on North Island roads,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// BYD launches dedicated repair network website

BYD New Zealand has launched a dedicated website to help customers locate approved repairers across the country,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Blenheim student recognised as AMI road safety hero

Zane Lott is the inaugural recipient of AMI’s Supporting Excellence Student Award through the Ryda programme.

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// New Zealand new-vehicle sales April: solid growth, but ‘pace of increase has moderated’ for EVs

The Motor Industry Association says NZ enjoyed a “solid increase” in new-vehicle sales for April, with an 11.7% increase on the same month last year.

• Read this article on Driven Car Guide

// GR Yaris gets slippery: Toyota New Zealand launches Aero Performance Package option

Toyota NZ has launched its first official option bundle for the GR Yaris: the Aero Performance Package.

• Read this article on Driven Car Guide

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Humble Hauler autonomous trailer takes the truck out of trucking

This startup just showed off a fully driverless, cab-less, and truck-less battery-electric freight platform for container trailers.

• Read this article on Electrek

ONE LINERS

• Opel Corsa GSE revealed as 207kW electric hot hatch with serious bite
• Australian Govt targets EV tax break to cheaper models in phased changes
• BYD, MG and Tesla score five stars in latest ANCAP results
• Skoda Epiq cabin teased ahead of compact electric SUV reveal
• Hyundai Ioniq 6 N launches in Australia, under consideration for NZ
• Repco partners with Hot Wheels Legends Tour as ANZ search begins

SPONSORED BY FARMER AUTOVILLAGE

// Farmer Autovillage Wheel Repairs

Now offering precision machine face wheel repairs and professional powder coating using our advanced WheelRestore diamond cutting machine and specialist coating equipment. From cost-effective repairs to full blackouts, it’s the perfect solution for used vehicle reconditioning.

Fast turnaround times – Simply send us the wheel complete with tyre and we’ll return it repaired, fitted, balanced, and ready to roll.

Contact: tyreadvisors@farmerautovillage.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group

Join the NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group — a private group for New Zealand car dealers to share information and news.

// Advertise Here

Want to reach New Zealand’s automotive trade? Email Dan to find out about advertising opportunities in The Full Brief.

HOT TOPIC

// Chery’s ute naming contest hits the final nine

A world-first plug-in hybrid diesel ute (unless GWM beats them to it) is one public vote away from getting a name,

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says Chery Dropbear? Plug-in hybrid ute gets closer to a name

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Use the best tool for the job

Vehicle reports built for the automotive industry, getting you live data in seconds, including PPSR checks, sale documents, CIN cards, VOSA forms and more. Mobile-friendly, easy to use, backed by local support, and trusted by industry leaders.

“It’s clear that the Autocheck team understands the industry’s day-to-day operations …” – Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… the digital signing capability is spectacular when buying stock privately.” – Sean Pearce, General Manager, Pearce Brothers

Call Mike 021 410 134 or visit AutoCheck.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// BYD, MG, Tesla and Skoda earn five-star ANCAP ratings in latest testing round

Four new vehicles have received five-star safety ratings in the latest round of ANCAP assessments.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

IN OTHER NEWS

// Hyundai IONIQ 6 N launches in Australia, NZ decision pending

The high-performance EV sedan goes on sale across the Tasman from A$115,000, with a New Zealand launch under review.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// ECVS opens orders for NZ-made Leaf battery upgrade

Palmerston North-based Electric Commercial Vehicle Solutions (ECVS) has finalised pricing on a 52kWh battery upgrade for first-generation Nissan Leafs

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// Collecting Cars tops $9m in April as demand for collectibles strengthens

Online auction platform Collecting Cars has recorded more than NZ$9.76 million in sales in April,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Demand for cars ‘resilient’

The new-vehicle market recorded a solid increase in April 2026 with 9,864 registrations, which was up by 11.7 per cent year on year.

• Read this article on Autofile

// New role to grow business

Avanti Finance has appointed Paul Jamieson as general manager of Avanti Capital, a newly created role as the company focuses on accelerating the growth of its funds management business.

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// The Electric M3 Will Be Priced In the

BMW says its M3 EV equivalent should land in the same price ballpark as the combustion version, even though it will likely be quicker and have much more power.

• Read this article on InsideEVs

ONE LINERS

• Electric Lexus ES confirmed for NZ, coming this year
• Drivers vote this vehicle manufacturer NZ’s most trusted car brand
• Italian ‘modified a Toyota to sell as NZ$345k Ferrari’
• BMW builds its two-millionth EV as electric push gathers speed
• Volvo rolls out Google Gemini AI to cars dating back to 2020
• Tesla Semi begins rolling off high-volume production line
• Australia EV sales reach 16.4% market share in April
• Australian Govt targets EV tax break to cheaper models in phased changes

SPONSORED BY FARMER AUTOVILLAGE

// Farmer Autovillage Wheel Repairs

Now offering precision machine face wheel repairs and professional powder coating using our advanced WheelRestore diamond cutting machine and specialist coating equipment. From cost-effective repairs to full blackouts, it’s the perfect solution for used vehicle reconditioning.

Fast turnaround times – Simply send us the wheel complete with tyre and we’ll return it repaired, fitted, balanced, and ready to roll.

Contact: tyreadvisors@farmerautovillage.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group

The place for NZ car dealers to share information and have a chat. Join the group here.

// Advertise Here

Want to reach New Zealand’s automotive trade? Email Dan to find out more.

HOT TOPIC

// JAC begins New Zealand testing for T9 plug-in hybrid ute

JAC has begun local testing of its T9 plug-in hybrid ute ahead of a planned New Zealand launch,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says JAC NZ kicks off local pre-launch testing for PHEV ute

HOT TOPIC

// Leapmotor B05 hatch to debut at Fieldays

The all-electric Leapmotor B05 will make its New Zealand debut at Fieldays, with the compact hatchback set to be unveiled

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// More on this

• Stuff says Leapmotor B05 electric hatch confirmed for NZ reveal in June

HOT TOPIC

// Vehicle arrivals up in April as used car volumes jump

The number of vehicle imports arriving on New Zealand ports rose sharply in April

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// More on this

• Autofile says Used-import numbers jump 119%
• AutoTalk says New vehicle market continues steady growth in April

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Use the best tool for the job

Vehicle reports built for the automotive industry, getting you live data in seconds, including PPSR checks, sale documents, CIN cards, VOSA forms and more. Mobile-friendly, easy to use, backed by local support, and trusted by industry leaders.

“It’s clear that the Autocheck team understands the industry’s day-to-day operations …” – Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… the digital signing capability is spectacular when buying stock privately.” – Sean Pearce, General Manager, Pearce Brothers

Call Mike 021 410 134 or visit AutoCheck.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// Automotive firms feel pressure

Automotive repair and maintenance companies have been among the hardest hit by the economic squeeze as new data shows 74 such businesses were liquidated over the past 12 months, compared with 27 for the year prior.

• Read this article on Autofile

IN OTHER NEWS

// Smart EV charging rules aim to cut costs and ease grid pressure

New requirements for electric vehicle chargers will make it easier and more affordable for New Zealanders to charge their vehicles,

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// Report tackles fleet issues

The Motor Trade Association (MTA) says a major report it has commissioned contains in-depth information on the automotive landscape and is a resource the entire industry can benefit from.

• Read this article on Autofile

// FMA chair steps down

Cameron Brewer, the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, has accepted an offer of resignation from Craig Stobo as chairman of the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) after an independent review into his conduct.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Small hybrid goes for more than 1100km in NZ road test

The Suzuki Swift has demonstrated just how efficient a small hybrid car can be, achieving a driving range of more than 1100km in an independent fuel economy test conducted on New Zealand roads.

• Read this article on Stuff

// Lexus RZ EV gets radical price rethink for NZ: now cheaper than the RX hybrid

Lexus NZ has radically realigned the pricing of its only pure-electric (BEV) model, the RZ.

• Read this article on Driven Car Guide

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// China’s Plug-In Hybrid SUVs Can Now Double As Boats, Apparently

Chery’s top-spec Jetour G700 SUV even comes with propellers for crossing rivers.

• Read this article on InsideEVs

ONE LINERS

• McLaren’s new MCL-HY GTR is a Le Mans racer for the uber wealthy
• Meridian named among world’s most sustainable companies
• Ferrari Purosangue Handling Speciale sharpens Maranello’s four-door V12
• Hyundai’s new Pleos Connect infotainment system puts AI in the driver’s seat

SPONSORED BY FARMER AUTOVILLAGE

// Farmer Autovillage Wheel Repairs

Now offering precision machine face wheel repairs and professional powder coating using our advanced WheelRestore diamond cutting machine and specialist coating equipment. From cost-effective repairs to full blackouts, it’s the perfect solution for used vehicle reconditioning.

Fast turnaround times – Simply send us the wheel complete with tyre and we’ll return it repaired, fitted, balanced, and ready to roll.

Contact: tyreadvisors@farmerautovillage.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group

Are you part of the NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group? It’s a private group for car dealers and automotive industry professionals. Join the group here.

// Advertise Here

Want to reach New Zealand’s automotive industry? Email Dan to find out about advertising opportunities in The Full Brief.

HOT TOPIC

// Hamilton dealership reclaims crown

Jaguar Land Rover NZ celebrates sales, service, customer experience and leadership success at annual awards.

• Read this article on Autofile

// More on this

• AutoTalk says Duncan & Ebbett Hamilton reclaims Jaguar Land Rover supreme title

HOT TOPIC

// Broadlands Finance appoints new general manager

Motor vehicle finance company Broadlands Finance has appointed Simon Moore as General Manager

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// More on this

• Autofile says Mission to build on legacy

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Use the best tool for the job

Vehicle reports built for the automotive industry, getting you live data in seconds, including PPSR checks, sale documents, CIN cards, VOSA forms and more. Mobile-friendly, easy to use, backed by local support, and trusted by industry leaders.

“It’s clear that the Autocheck team understands the industry’s day-to-day operations …” – Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… the digital signing capability is spectacular when buying stock privately.” – Sean Pearce, General Manager, Pearce Brothers

Call Mike 021 410 134 or visit AutoCheck.co.nz

BEST OF THE REST

// Leapmotor B05 to make New Zealand debut at Fieldays

The all-electric Leapmotor B05 has been confirmed to make its New Zealand debut at the Fieldays.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

IN OTHER NEWS

// Sporty edge for SUV

Toyota NZ is rolling out the RAV4 GR Sport plug in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), which it says is the sportiest, most dynamic and technically advanced RAV4 ever offered here.

• Read this article on Autofile

// April new car sales: Toyota holds top spot as Chinese brands gain momentum

New vehicle registrations climbed to 9863 units in April 2026, an 11.6% increase compared with the same month last year, when 8839 units were recorded.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// 2026 Toyota GR Yaris gains Aero Performance Package in New Zealand

Toyota New Zealand has introduced a new Aero Performance Package for the Toyota GR Yaris, marking the first time the hot hatch has been offered with a factory performance upgrade.

• Read this article on Stuff

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Why Insurance Breaks The Uber-In-The-Air Fantasy – CleanTechnica

The underwriter is another stake in the heart of cheap eVTOLs, pushing services toward expensive airport shuttles instead of app-hailed city flights.

• Read this article on CleanTechnica

ONE LINERS

• Google brings Gemini upgrade with natural AI conversations to built-in cars
• Honda aims to fight onslaught of affordable new rivals
• Volkswagen releases limited-run Amarok V6 Style ute with premium practicality
• Range Rover SV Ultra turns up luxury with concert-hall cabin tech

SPONSORED BY FARMER AUTOVILLAGE

// Farmer Autovillage Wheel Repairs

Now offering precision machine face wheel repairs and professional powder coating using our advanced WheelRestore diamond cutting machine and specialist coating equipment. From cost-effective repairs to full blackouts, it’s the perfect solution for used vehicle reconditioning.

Fast turnaround times – Simply send us the wheel complete with tyre and we’ll return it repaired, fitted, balanced, and ready to roll.

Contact: tyreadvisors@farmerautovillage.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group

Have you joined the NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group? A private group for car dealers to share information, news and opinions. Join the group here.

// Advertise Here

Want to reach New Zealand’s automotive trade? Email Dan to find out about advertising options.

HOT TOPIC

// Dreame unveils jet-powered electric supercar with sub-second acceleration

Chinese technology company Dreame has announced the Nebula NEXT 01 JET Edition, an electric supercar equipped with jet boosters

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// More on this

• AutoTrader says Dreame’s jet-powered electric supercar promises a sub one-second 0-100 time
• Stuff says Dreame reveal rocket-boosted EV supercar with 0.9s 0-100km/h claim

HOT TOPIC

// MG confirms electric U9 ute and S6 SUV for New Zealand

MG Motor New Zealand has confirmed it will introduce two new electric models to the local line-up,

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says MG New Zealand will launch a pure-electric version of the massive U9 ute this year

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// Use the best tool for the job

Vehicle reports built for the automotive industry, getting you live data in seconds, including PPSR checks, sale documents, CIN cards, VOSA forms and more. Mobile-friendly, easy to use, backed by local support, and trusted by industry leaders.

“It’s clear that the Autocheck team understands the industry’s day-to-day operations …” – Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… the digital signing capability is spectacular when buying stock privately.” – Sean Pearce, General Manager, Pearce Brothers

Call Mike 021 410 134 or visit AutoCheck.co.nz

STATS WEEK

// New-vehicle demand rises

GWM Haval H6 among the big gainers as sector’s monthly registrations jump 16.9 per cent year-on-year.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Chinese brands drive new vehicle market to strong April result

New vehicle registrations climbed to 9863 units in April 2026, an 11.6% increase compared with the same month last year, when 8839 units were recorded.

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Commercials market flat

There were 2,753 new commercials registered last month, a modest 0.6 per cent increase when compared with 2,737 in April 2025.

• Read this article on Autofile

// Volvo’s NZ sales surge 67%

Volvo Cars New Zealand is celebrating a 67 per cent increase in sales for the first quarter of 2026, when compared with the same period last year.

• Read this article on Autofile

IN OTHER NEWS

// The Insider: New Zealand has reached the tipping point for electrified cars

NordEast group GM Dane Fisher argues NZ has reached a tipping point for electrification.

• Read this article on Driven Car Guide

// Auckland transport reforms pass final reading

Legislation overhauling Auckland’s transport governance has passed its third reading,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Toyota tops trusted car brand survey for 21st year

Toyota has been named New Zealand’s most trusted car brand for the 21st consecutive year

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Limited-edition Toyota GR Yaris Aero Performance Package arrives in New Zealand

Toyota New Zealand has confirmed the new GR Yaris Aero Performance Package is now available locally.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// MG4 Urban – a new affordable EV benchmark?

MG New Zealand is bolstering its affordable EV ranks with the introduction of the MG4 Urban and also a timely update for the popular MG4.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 Special Edition arrives in New Zealand

Mercedes-Benz has expanded its compact SUV lineup in New Zealand with the introduction of the GLA 200 Special Edition, bringing a new design to the entry point of the GLA range.

• Read this article on Stuff

// Honda drops the first EV it brought to New Zealand

As electric vehicles continue to fly out the door in car dealerships around New Zealand, the local arm of Japanese carmaker Honda finds itself in an interesting predicament.

• Read this article on Stuff

// Chery Q small EV confirmed for New Zealand arrival in 2027

Chery Q will join the brand’s growing New Zealand lineup in 2027, with the Chinese carmaker confirming its smallest and most affordable electric vehicle is on the way.

• Read this article on Stuff

// 2026 Omoda 4 revealed in Beijing as new hybrid SUV eyes NZ launch in 2027

The Omoda 4 has been revealed at the 2026 Beijing motor show, previewing a new small SUV that’s expected to play a key role in the expansion of Omoda Jaecoo in New Zealand ahead of a likely 2027 launch.

• Read this article on Stuff

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Top Selling Electric Vehicles in the World — March 2026 – CleanTechnica

BEVs vs. PHEVs Plugin vehicle registrations were up 5% year over year (YoY) in March, ending the month at around 1.7 million units. Interestingly,

• Read this article on CleanTechnica

ONE LINERS

• Volkswagen unveils electric ID. Polo hatchback
• Freelander 8 unveiled as plug-in hybrid SUV
• Geely showcases AI and robotaxi at Beijing Auto Show
• Audi updates Q4 e-tron with more range and new technology
• Range Rover SV Ultra turns up luxury with concert-hall cabin tech

SPONSORED BY FARMER AUTOVILLAGE

// Farmer Autovillage Wheel Repairs

Now offering precision machine face wheel repairs and professional powder coating using our advanced WheelRestore diamond cutting machine and specialist coating equipment. From cost-effective repairs to full blackouts, it’s the perfect solution for used vehicle reconditioning.

Fast turnaround times – Simply send us the wheel complete with tyre and we’ll return it repaired, fitted, balanced, and ready to roll.

Contact: tyreadvisors@farmerautovillage.co.nz

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group

Are you a member of the NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group? It’s a great place to connect with other dealers, share information and ask questions. Join the group here.

// Advertise Here

Want to reach New Zealand’s automotive trade professionals? Get in touch to find out about advertising opportunities in The Full Brief.

BEST OF TODAY

// Car dealer steps down after complaints and tribunal rulings

A Christchurch used car dealer has stepped away from his business following a series of customer complaints and tribunal rulings.

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Tribunal’s workload soars

There were 716 new applications filed with the Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal (MVDT) in 2024/25, a new annual record after jumping by 132 cases from the previous year.

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Dealer-to-Dealer Trading. Reimagined.

Connect instantly with over 1,500 licensed motor dealers nationwide and trade with clarity, speed, and complete confidence.

Whether you’re moving aging stock or hunting down fresh inventory, our live weekly dealer auctions let you buy and sell in real time, without the delays, uncertainty, or friction of traditional wholesale channels.

Every vehicle is presented with high-quality images, verified information, and market-driven pricing, creating fast, transparent, and trustworthy transactions between professionals who speak the same language.

• Trade smarter. Move faster. Stay ahead

IN OTHER NEWS

// Update for clean car data

The NZTA has updated the reference data used for the clean vehicle standard (CVS) even though the government is currently assessing whether to revise the targets for new and used light vehicle imports.

• Read this article on Autofile

// MTF Finance appoints Sturrock Saunders as chair

MTF Finance has appointed Sturrock Saunders as board chair, effective May 1,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Motor finance returns to growth at Heartland as EV lending surges

Motor finance has returned to growth at Heartland Group Holdings, with a sharp lift in electric vehicle lending

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Motor claims rise as insurers respond to severe weather damage

Work is under way across AMI, State and NZI to support customers

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Housing wealth decline may dampen automotive market as property values fall 17% from peak

New Zealand’s housing market continues to show signs of weakness that could impact automotive purchasing decisions,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Spending on fuel up 17.3%

Spending on fuel increased by 17.3 per cent last month when compared to February as Kiwis felt pain at the pump in the wake of the Middle East conflict.

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// The Humble Hauler Is A Cab-Less Autonomous Truck With 200 Miles Of Range

Humble Robotics built its first prototype in just under six months, and it’s now eyeing the $900 billion truck-based freight industry.

• Read this article on InsideEVs

ONE LINERS

• 2027 Hyundai Ioniq 3 is a smaller, rounder and more accessible Ioniq 5
• Australian listed dealer groups achieve revenue growth amid margin pressure
• Smart Concept #2 revives the fortwo for the electric era
• Hyundai to test next-gen N engines at the Nürburgring 24 hour
• BMW reinvents the 7 Series
• BMW marks 50 years of RS bikes with spotlight on new R 1300 RS
• Rimac reveals behind-the-scenes film of plane landing on moving train
• New Porsche Design luggage lets you spec your suitcase like a 911
• Porsche brings wireless charging to Cayenne Electric

OTHER STUFF

• Join the NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group
• Advertise in The Full Brief — dan@thefullbrief.nz

HOT TOPIC

// Meet president’s award winners

Ford NZ has celebrated the outstanding achievements of its dealer network by announcing the winners of the company’s annual president’s awards.

• Read this article on Autofile

// More on this

• AutoTalk says Ford New Zealand honours five dealers at President’s Awards

HOT TOPIC

// Ford Mustang Dark Horse is making a come back for 2026

Good news for those that missed out on securing a Mustang Dark Horse last year.

• Read this article on AutoTrader

// More on this

• Stuff says Ford reveals Supercars-inspired Mustang Dark Horse, but not for NZ

HOT TOPIC

// NZTA proposes restructure impacting more than 250 roles

More than 250 roles at NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi are under review as part of a proposed restructure,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// More on this

• Autofile says Dozens of NZTA staff face axe

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Dealer-to-Dealer Trading. Reimagined.

Connect instantly with over 1,500 licensed motor dealers nationwide and trade with clarity, speed, and complete confidence.

Whether you’re moving aging stock or hunting down fresh inventory, our live weekly dealer auctions let you buy and sell in real time, without the delays, uncertainty, or friction of traditional wholesale channels.

Every vehicle is presented with high-quality images, verified information, and market-driven pricing, creating fast, transparent, and trustworthy transactions between professionals who speak the same language.

• Trade smarter. Move faster. Stay ahead

BEST OF THE REST

// Dealer bankrupted over stolen Jaguar sale

Former Auckland luxury car dealer Alexander Beacham has been declared bankrupt by the High Court over a $100,000 private sale

• Read this article on AutoTalk

IN OTHER NEWS

// Audi EVs recalled over potential braking issue

Audi New Zealand has confirmed it is recalling a model from its fully electric SUV line-up over a brake servo issue.

• Read this article on Stuff

// NHR adds 49 electric trucks to national rental fleet

Truck and van rental company NHR Group has added 49 electric commercial vehicles to its nationwide fleet,

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// ‘Good time’ to cut emissions

2026 Scientists say the fuel crisis caused by the Middle East conflict is an opportunity for the government to act

• Read this article on Autofile

SPONSORED BY EV POWER

// Knowledgeable, Experienced Team

Trusted Experts in EV Charging – Here to Help Every Step of the Way.

With years of experience in the New Zealand EV space, few companies have been supplying EV charging products as long as OEM Audio Ltd, the team behind EV Power.

We’re proud to hold the Consumer Trusted accreditation, giving you confidence in both our products and our customer service.

Shop Online or Get in touch

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// UK Has More EV Chargers Than Gas (Petrol) Nozzles – CleanTechnica

The United Kingdom has far more public EV charger points than gas (petrol) pump nozzles.

• Read this article on CleanTechnica

ONE LINERS

• Porsche brings wireless charging with Cayenne Electric
• 2027 Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV revealed with up to 800km of range
• VW and Xpeng team up on the ID. Unyx 09
• BYD unveils new Sealion 05 in China

OTHER STUFF

Got a story or want to share your opinion? Join the NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group.

Want to advertise in The Full Brief? dan@thefullbrief.nz

HOT TOPIC

// Mercedes-Benz unveils all-electric C-Class sedan

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled an all-electric version of its C-Class sedan,

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

// More on this

• Driven Car Guide says Mercedes-Benz claims all-electric C-Class is also the ‘sportiest ever’

HOT TOPIC

// Ministry targets rogue dealers

The government has detailed how it is using sales data as part of its proactive, education led approach to identify potential unregistered motor vehicle traders.

• Read this article on Autofile

// More on this

• AutoTalk says MBIE ramps up data-matching to catch unregistered traders

HOT TOPIC

// Petrol and diesel prices record sharpest monthly rise on record

Petrol and diesel prices recorded their largest monthly increases on record in March,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// More on this

• Autofile says Massive jump in diesel

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BEST OF THE REST

// Hyundai unveils Ioniq 3 compact electric hatchback

Hyundai has unveiled the Ioniq 3, a compact electric hatchback developed primarily for the European market,

• Read this article on EVs & Beyond

IN OTHER NEWS

// CarExpert New Zealand appoints Mat McNay as country manager

CarExpert New Zealand has appointed Mat McNay as Country Manager,

• Read this article on AutoTalk

// Record numbers are taking vehicle traders to the Disputes Tribunal

If you’ve bought a car that turned out to be a lemon, the Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal is the place where disputes between buyers and traders

• Read this article on AutoTrader

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INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// The End of Range Anxiety? This New Modular Engine Swaps Into EVs To Boost Range Significantly

Horse Powertrain’s latest solution packs a four-cylinder engine, a transmission, and two electric motors into a single enclosure.

• Read this article on InsideEVs

ONE LINERS

• BYD offers flood support for Wellington owners
• ‘The conversation around EVs beginning to flip’ says power firm

OTHER STUFF

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