NZ Automotive Industry News

HOT TOPIC

// 2024 Nissan GT-R is the same, but different

The 2024 Nissan GT-R has been revealed in Japan today, but it isn’t the next-generation model many of you would have been hoping for.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// More on this 

• Stuff Motoring says Nissan unveils new GT-R that looks a lot like the old one video

HOT TOPIC

// Kiwi off-road favourite gets bigger and goes hybrid

Suzuki has been testing a 5-door version of its eternally popular Jimny for years now, making it one of the worst-kept secrets in motoring.

• Read this article on Stuff.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoCar says Five-door Suzuki Jimny unveiled, but not for us

BEST OF THE REST

// Toyota pushes zero-emission goals by converting old models

To accelerate the global move toward sustainable vehicles, Toyota is suggesting simply replacing the inner workings of vehicles already on the roads with cleaner technology like fuel cells and electric motors.

• Read this article on Stuff.co.nz

SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// Superior Protection. Better Value for Your Clients

Newcoat uses the latest in 2-coat Ceramic Coating Technology to enhance the look of new cars and protect them from the elements. Customers understand the benefits of 2 coats, making Newcoat the easiest ceramic coating to present and sell.

• Check out www.newcoat.co.nz and ask for a free demo at business@newcoat.co.nz or 09 889 6535

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Jeep’s First EV Named European Car Of The Year

Jeep’s first fully electric model, the Avenger, has been crowned European Car of the Year.

• Read this article on InsideEVs.com

IN OTHER NEWS

// Toyota confirms crossover with a sporty side for NZ

Toyota New Zealand has announced that it will soon add a new performance-inspired variant to its Yaris Cross line-up.

• Read this article on Stuff.co.nz

// EV exec slams ‘corrupt’ mining industry, but says it’s a ‘great opportunity’ for Australia

As the head of sustainability for Polestar, Klarén’s job is to push boundaries in the automotive business, occasionally pushing people out of their comfort zone.

• Read this article on Driven.co.nz

// Views sought on IP rules

Regulator seeks input on guidelines around intellectual property rights.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

HOT TOPIC

// Suzuki EV planned by 2025

Suzuki’s EV concept model eVX has debuted at India’s Auto Expo 2023, which runs from January 13-18 (public days) and includes press days on January 11 and 12.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoCar says Suzuki eVX Concept will become brand’s first EV
• Driven says Better late than never: Suzuki reveals first-ever pure electric vehicle
• Stuff Motoring says Suzuki’s first electric vehicle has been revealed, due in 2025

HOT TOPIC

// MTF appoints chief commercial officer

Natasha Callister tasked with helping improve customer experience as she brings her skills to the finance sector.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoTalk says MTF Finance welcomes new chief commercial officer

BEST OF THE REST

// Toyota NZ considering Hilux GR Sport

Toyota New Zealand says the Hilux GR Sport is under consideration for our market and it expects to make announcement about this in the first quarter.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// Fiat NZ welcomes new Series 8 Ducato

Fiat Professional New Zealand is marking the arrival of the award-winning Series 8 Ducato to the local market.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

SPONSORED

// The Full Brief is For Sale

A new project for 2023 means I may need to sell the Full Brief. It’s a great little side business for someone interested in the automotive industry, and there’s loads of potential to grow.

• For more information email me at dan@thefullbrief.nz

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Toyota Hilux Hydrogen Fuel Cell Pickup Prototype Unveiled

Pickups dominates sales in many markets around the world. In the USA, the Ford F-150 has been the best-selling truck for 46 consecutive years

• Read this article on Cleantechnica.com

// Hyundai Ioniq 5 with e-corner tech turns on a dime

With e-corner, the Ioniq 5 can crab sideways like a GMC Hummer EV, or turn in place much like the “tank turn” maneuver exhibited by Rivian and Mercedes-Benz EQG prototypes.

• Read this article on Greencarreports.com

IN OTHER NEWS

// Next-generation Mercedes-AMG GT coupe leaked

The next-generation Mercedes-AMG GT has been leaked online, showing the model in coupe form ahead of an official unveiling later this year.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Sales of electrified vehicles almost doubled in 2022

New Zealanders are continuing to make the shift from gas guzzlers to greener options with almost double the amount of electrified vehicles being sold last year compared to 2021.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Ford hikes Ranger pricing as Clean Car Standard comes into effect

Ford has bumped the pricing of the best-selling Ranger ute, starting in January.

• Read this article on Stuff.co.nz

// Toyota New Zealand adds GR Sport model to Yaris Cross SUV

Not to be confused with the full Gazoo Racing-developed models like GR Yaris, GR Supra and the forthcoming GR Corolla (you’ll notice the “GR” comes before the model names in those, because it’s a brand in its own right),

• Read this article on Driven.co.nz

// Fiat Metaverse Store World premiere

Fiat returned to the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, with two major exhibits starring the New 500 electric.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

ONE LINERS

• Bentley Motors announces 2022 sales record
• ACT Party commits to dumping Clean Car ‘ute tax’
• Euro NCAP reveals the safest cars for 2022 – and they’re all electric!
• Geely aims for 650,000 NEV sales this year
• Tesla tops most Googled stock search in Europe
• Toyota is NZ’s most searched car brand in 2022
• Ford, GM, Google create virtual powerplants
• Eagers Automotive service advisor wins ‘Good to Great’ award

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

TODAY’S NEWS

// Kiwis ‘not behind’ clean car discount

Union calls on the government to scrap “unfair tax” after releasing poll findings.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// Polestar targeting more sales after record 2022

Electric car company Polestar experienced a record year for sales in 2022 and is now targeting new heights for 2023.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// India is now the world’s third-largest car market

India has overtaken Japan to become the world’s third-largest car market according to industry data, reported by Nikkei Asia.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

SPONSORED

// The Full Brief is For Sale

A new project for 2023 means I may need to sell the Full Brief. It’s a great little side business for someone interested in the automotive industry, and there’s loads of potential to grow.

• For more information email me at dan@thefullbrief.nz

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Waitlist opens for $40,000 Lightyear 2 solar car due in 2025

The Lightyear 2 will have a real-world range near 500 miles, according to the company—and, likely, the same level of emphasis on reducing dependence on charging infrastructure.

• Read this article on Greencarreports.com

// Google, Ford, GM, & Solar Companies Partner To Promote Scaling Of Virtual Power Plants

By pooling together large numbers of decentralized energy resources, such as electric cars, home energy storage systems, electric water heaters, solar arrays, “smart” electric heating systems and more into a single portfolio, these virtual power plants can put those energy assets to work stabilizing the grid, improving electricity affordability, and increasing energy independence.

• Read this article on Cleantechnica.com

IN OTHER NEWS

// Porsche now offers 1970s rally wraps for 911 Dakar

The Porsche 911 has an illustrious history in motorsport, most notably on the rally stages of Africa.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Confirmed: countdown is on to the return of Mazda’s rotary engine

Mazda will reveal a new plug-in hybrid powertrain for the MX-30 eco-car on Friday January 13, at the Brussels Motor Show (European time, Saturday for New Zealand).

• Read this article on Driven.co.nz

// Kim Dotcom’s iconic 1959 Elvis pink Cadillac seized by police during raid up for $1 reserve

A prized asset of internet mogul Kim Dotcom that was seized by police during a 2012 raid of his Coatesville mansion is now being auctioned off on Trade Me.

• Read this article on Driven.co.nz

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

HOT TOPIC

// Record year driven by 77% increase in EV registrations

The Motor Industry Association of New Zealand (MIA) says that there were 11,840 sales of new vehicles for the month of December 2022, making it the second strongest month of December on record.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoCar says 2022 strongest year on record for new car sales
• AutoFile says ‘Outstanding’ year for new vehicles
• Driven says NZ new-vehicle sales for 2022: EVs drive market to biggest-ever year
• Stuff Motoring says Local electric car sales exceeding industry expectations

HOT TOPIC

// Mazda MX-30 PHEV rotary revealed January 13

Mazda will introduce a new powertrain option for its MX-30 at the Brussels Motor Show 2023 on January 14-17.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoCar says The rotary engine is back, but not as you know it

HOT TOPIC

// Tom Ruddenklau appointed CEO of Power Farming

Tom Ruddenklau, a well-known senior figure in the automotive industry, is making the shift from selling cars to distributing agricultural machinery.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoTalk says Ruddenklau moving from automotive to agriculture

BEST OF THE REST

// Newly unveiled Volkswagen ID.7 has electrified paint

More news out of the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show earlier this month has given us a glimpse of the new Volkswagen ID.7 which has been camouflaged in electroluminescent paint.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Buyer loses $100k when dealer’s private sale goes awry

A Botswana-based Kiwi businessman has failed to recover $100,000 from an Auckland-based car dealer when the vehicle he purchased in a private sale turned out to be stolen goods and was retrieved by the rightful owner.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

SPONSORED

// The Full Brief is For Sale

A profitable part-time business with potential to grow.

Perfect if you’re wanting to get into automotive journalism. Also perfect as an advertising platform if your business promotes itself to car dealers.

• For more information email me at dan@thefullbrief.nz

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// US: Stellantis’ Jeep And Chrysler Note Strong PHEV Sales In Q4 2022

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe remains the best selling plug-in hybrid model in the US.

• Read this article on InsideEVs.com

IN OTHER NEWS

// Dongfeng Mengshi M-Terrain EV seen In China

A production version of the Dongfeng Mengshi M-Terrain EV SUV has been spotted in China.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// Major expansion underway for Keith Andrews Hamilton

Daimler commercial vehicles dealership Keith Andrews Hamilton has broken ground on a major workshop extension which will significantly increase the capacity of its flagship Waikato site.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// WWCOTY voting starts

EVs are among 59 candidate vehicles for the Women’s World Car of the Year, with six category winners announced February 15.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// Drone delivery service likely

Drone parcel delivery is expected in New Zealand with Google’s aviation subsidiary registering here.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// Tesla of the sea? CES showcases electric hydrofoil boats

Flying cars and self-driving vehicles always get attention at the CES gadget show in Las Vegas, but this year, electric recreational boats are making bigger waves.

• Read this article on Driven.co.nz

ONE LINERS

• The Hennessey Venom F5 Revolution is a track monster
• Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announces new 2022 sales record
• Polestar to deliver 80,000 EVs this year
• From EVs to utes: NZ’s 10 best-selling cars of 2022
• Ram unveils ute of the future

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota GR Corolla local pricing announced

The next in the line of Toyota’s rich race and rally-inspired hot hatches is coming to New Zealand early this year, with pricing for the Toyota GR Corolla now being announced.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// More on this 

• Stuff Motoring says Bold, brash Toyota Hilux GR revealed, set for local launch

HOT TOPIC

// Number of Kiwi dealers continues slow but steady decline

The number of NZ-registered motor vehicle traders, continued its steady decline in the last six months of 2022.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoFile says Dealer numbers continue to fall

HOT TOPIC

// Used imports in decline

Sharp drops for passenger vehicles and light commercials, while fortunes were vastly different for parts of the new-vehicle market.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoTalk says Used car imports down 30% year-on-year

BEST OF THE REST

// Ram goes electric with newly-revealed concept

The future vision of Ram Trucks has been revealed at the CES 2023 technology show in the form of the 1500 Revolution Battery-electric Vehicle (BEV) Concept.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// SsangYong to change name following new ownership

Korean carmaker SsangYong is ditching its old namesake for something new as it wants to forgo its tarnished reputation.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

SPONSORED

// The Full Brief is For Sale

A new project for 2023 means I may need to sell the Full Brief. It’s a great little side business for someone interested in the automotive industry, and there’s loads of potential to grow.

• For more information email me at dan@thefullbrief.nz

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Mercedes plans own EV fast-charging network, starting with America

At CES, the automaker announced an initiative to place EV fast-charging sites along highways, while also near amenities and Mercedes dealerships.

• Read this article on Greencarreports.com

IN OTHER NEWS

// BYD unveils supercar and SUV under luxury brand

Chinese carmaker BYD has decided to dip its toes into the lap of luxury after unveiling a new supercar and SUV under its high-end YangWang brand.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Vector reverses moves

The Commerce Commission says its investigation has led to a backdown by New Zealand’s largest electricity distribution business Vector on moves that could have cost its customers millions of dollars over coming decades.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// ACT Party vows to fight ‘ute tax’

The ACT party says it will seek to repeal the Clean Car Discount and Clean Car Standard if it’s part of the next government.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

ONE LINERS

• BMW reveals i Vision Dee concept: can a car really be your friend?
• CES 2023: Stellantis preps cost cuts due to higher EV prices
• Tesla shares tumble after company misses delivery target

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

HOT TOPIC

// Opel Grandland arriving in New Zealand next January

In a recent series of social media posts, Opel New Zealand has indicated that its Grandland will be arriving on our shores in January 2023.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// More on this 

• Stuff Motoring says New plug-in hybrid SUV to hit NZ next month

BEST OF THE REST

// Toyoda reveals Hilux BEV concept but says one-size-fits-all is not the answer

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) president Akio Toyoda revealed an electric Hilux concept at the Toyota Motor Thailand 60th anniversary celebration but reiterated his belief that manufacturers should not commit to 100% battery electric vehicle (BEV) production.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Helping dealers buy and sell stock, since 2019

With two auctions every week, you can sell your stock to over 600 wholesale buyers, or buy stock from other dealers and some of the largest fleet and rental companies in New Zealand.

• Check out the FAQ for more info
• Or just register for free and have a look at what’s available.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Buick US Dealers Required To Invest $300,000-$400,000 To Sell EVs

Buick did not say how many of its US dealerships have chosen to take the buyout offer to date.

• Read this article on InsideEVs.com

IN OTHER NEWS

// Mustangs roar to five stars

Two variants of Ford’s Mach-E land top safety ratings as Honda’s HR-V secures four stars.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// BP steps up NZ EV charging

BP has launched its global electrification business in New Zealand with executive vice president Emma Delaney officially opening new BP EV fast charge points at Millwater in Auckland.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// EVs spark rise in value of imports

Passenger car imports climbed by $277m to reach $717m last month, with reduced emissions vehicles accounting for more than 43 per cent.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// One-off Bugatti Chiron Profilee is a mature Pur Sport

Bugatti has unveiled a toned-down version of its Chiron Pur Sport called the Profilee, a one-of-one model complete with a new rear wing.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

ONE LINERS

• Bertone reveals 1100hp hypercar that runs on plastic waste
• Mini delivers festive cheer
• Zooming with DRIVEN: New Zealand police go electric (sort of)

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

// XMAS Deliveries

The Full Brief will be taking a break for 3 weeks over Xmas. The last email will Friday 23rd Dec, and the first for 2023 will be Monday 16th Jan. Have a great Xmas and New Year. Thanks for reading.

HOT TOPIC

// Keith Andrews brings BYD to Northland

Those looking to purchase a BYD in Northland and take advantage of the Government’s Clean Car Rebate have a new option on their back doorstep.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoFile says Dealer partners with EV brand
• EVs and Beyond says Mac Sykes with the BYD Atto 3.

HOT TOPIC

// Reynolds new transport agency chairman

Government announces Dr Paul Reynolds will step into top position at Waka Kotahi early next year.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoCar says Transport Minister appoints new Waka Kotahi Chair

HOT TOPIC

// AA Motoring Services appoints new dealer relationship manager

AA Motoring Services has appointed experienced industry executive Avon Bailey to the newly established role of dealer relationship manager to support the growth of the AA’s preferred dealer network.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoFile says New dealer relationship boss for AA

HOT TOPIC

// CCS aspect ‘frustrates’ MIA

Some frustration is being seen by the Motor Industry Association (MIA) in the lead-up to the launch of the full Clean Car Standard (CCS) on January 1.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoFile says Frustration with CCS portal

BEST OF THE REST

// EasyAuto123’s new mascot creates after-hours havoc in showroom

Once a loveable toy, the easyauto123 toy kiwi has transformed into a giant mascot who loves the benefits of buying with the used car dealership and wants to be part of the team.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.n

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Helping dealers buy and sell stock, since 2019

With two auctions every week, you can sell your stock to over 600 wholesale buyers, or buy stock from other dealers and some of the largest fleet and rental companies in New Zealand.

• Check out the FAQ for more info
• Or just register for free and have a look at what’s available.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// It’s For Real: Wireless EV Charging For Germany’s Famous Autobahn

Embedding wireless EV charging systems in roadways may seem futuristic, but on Germany’s Autobahn the future is now.

• Read this article on Cleantechnica.com

IN OTHER NEWS

// All change at GMSV

Rochelle Nelson takes on New Zealand sales manager role as company announces three new appointments.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// Unique Mini PHEV delivers Christmas cheer to people in need

Mini New Zealand is supporting Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai for the second consecutive Christmas to spread big love and cheer among those most in need this festive season.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// New AC Cobra GT roadster to release in 2023

Although it will inherit the now 61-year-old model’s legendary profile, the new Cobra will undergo somewhat of a revolution following its three years of development.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Investigation into Wellington EV fire

Peugeot New Zealand is investigating a fire that reportedly destroyed a Peugeot e-208 GT EV in Wellington early on December 19.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

ONE LINERS

• One-off Alfa Romeo Giulia SWB Zagato revealed
• Christchurch bus fleet now 20% zero-emission
• Is Hyundai the world’s new car design leader?
• Electric icon: Fiat 500e EV confirmed for Kiwi buyers
• Zooming with DRIVEN: The MG4 is coming to New Zealand!

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

// XMAS Deliveries

The Full Brief will be taking a break for 3 weeks over Xmas. The last email will Friday 23rd Dec, and the first for 2023 will be Monday 16th Jan. Have a great Xmas and New Year. Thanks for reading.

HOT TOPIC

// All-new Hyundai Kona design revealed

Hyundai has just revealed the design for its all-new next generation Kona subcompact SUV, with the model now sporting a more “EV-led” look.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// More on this 

• EVs and Beyond says Hyundai Kona range to get EV-led design

HOT TOPIC

// Alfa Romeo Tonale Hybrid and PHEV arriving in 2023

Alfa Romeo will launch the Tonale Hybrid compact SUV to the New Zealand market in February 2023, with a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) arriving later in the year.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoCar says Alfa Romeo Tonale coming to NZ next year
• Driven says Tonale for NZ: it’s a compact SUV, it’s a hybrid with a rebate… it’s an Alfa Romeo

BEST OF THE REST

// Five-door Suzuki Jimny spotted without camouflage

Leaked images of the new five-door Suzuki Jimny have appeared online, revealing the model in full with no camouflage in sight.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Toyota president questioning industry’s push for EVs

Toyota president Akio Toyoda has questioned the automotive industry’s plan to phase out petrol and diesel-powered vehicles and replace them with electric vehicles (EVs).

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Helping dealers buy and sell stock, since 2019

With two auctions every week, you can sell your stock to over 600 wholesale buyers, or buy stock from other dealers and some of the largest fleet and rental companies in New Zealand.

• Check out the FAQ for more info
• Or just register for free and have a look at what’s available.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Mazda 3 could be replaced by a compact electric sedan with actual range

Mazda is already behind as the auto industry transitions to electric vehicles. However, a new patent reveals an electric Mazda 3 look-alike that could charge up the automaker’s EV strategy.

• Read this article on Electrek.co

IN OTHER NEWS

// Fire risk prompts Lexus recall

Marque’s action and separate Toyota recall over airbags affects more than 2,300 units in New Zealand.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// Micro EVs could be $282b business in 20 years

Micro EVs (electric two- and three-wheelers and microcars) are set to surge during the next 20 years.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// Nelson takes on Chevy sales role in NZ

GMSV, which sells Chevrolets in New Zealand, has appointed Rochelle Nelson as its new national sales manager,

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// Glimpse into marque’s future

The CX-90 will follow in the tread marks of the CX-60 coming to New Zealand in 2023.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// New board chair for Waka Kotahi

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is set for a new board chair with the appointment of Dr Paul Reynolds.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// Ateco Group appointment takes Groves full circle

The Ateco Group has appointed Todd Groves to manage the Stellantis brands

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// GMSV announces three personnel changes

Managing Director of GM Australia and New Zealand, Marc Ebolo, has announced three personnel changes to the team at GM Specialty Vehicles (GMSV).

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// CMC appoints John Hutchinson as a company director

The Colonial Motor Company has appointed John Hutchinson as a director of the NZX listed business

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

ONE LINERS

• Driven by design: $500k Porsche Sport Classic: 4 for NZ with exclusive watch!
• Musk’s $3.58 billion Tesla stock sale enrages investors
• Top ANCAP Safety performers for 2022
• Fire destroys new EV in Wellington, car company launches investigation
• Zesty electric hot hatch announced for NZ

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

// XMAS Deliveries

The Full Brief will be taking a break for 3 weeks over Xmas. The last email will Friday 23rd Dec, and the first for 2023 will be Monday 16th Jan. Have a great Xmas and New Year. Thanks for reading.

HOT TOPIC

// Fiat fails to high-five

Electric car misses out on top safety rating due to adult and child protection, and safety assist scores.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoCar says Fully electric Fiat 500e coming to New Zealand
• EVs and Beyond says Fiat’s electrifying 500e arriving second quarter

HOT TOPIC

// Lexus New Zealand issues recall for 1064 vehicles

Lexus New Zealand has issued a recall for 1064 vehicles over a potential fire risk on a range of models due to a problem with the fuel tank vent tube.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoTalk says Lexus recalling 15,000 vehicles in Australia and New Zealand

BEST OF THE REST

// Polestar to demonstrate driver monitoring system at CES

Smart Eye and Polestar will demonstrate the Polestar 3 driver monitoring system (DMS) at the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2023) at Las Vegas in January.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// Kiwi automotive parts start-up raises $37 million in funding

Partly, the New Zealand-born online automotive parts marketplace has raised $37 million in funding from venture capital firms in Australasia and Europe.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

// New online ‘look-up’ system for LVV certification plates

The Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association Inc (LVVTA) has introduced a feature on its website where buyers and sellers can check the stamped aluminium certification plates which were issued by it from April 1992 to February 2021.

• Read this article on AutoTalk.co.nz

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Helping dealers buy and sell stock, since 2019

With two auctions every week, you can sell your stock to over 600 wholesale buyers, or buy stock from other dealers and some of the largest fleet and rental companies in New Zealand.

• Check out the FAQ for more info
• Or just register for free and have a look at what’s available.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Why might the manual gearbox return in some performance EVs?

Performance EV makers may be trying to recreate the sensory experience of the manual gearbox, which by extension triggers combustion-engine nostalgia.

• Read this article on Greencarreports.com

IN OTHER NEWS

// Alfa Romeo Giulia SWB Zagato teased

Teaser images of the upcoming Alfa Romeo Giulia SWB Zagato have appeared on the Italian coachbuilder’s Instagram page after having only just announced the car in the days prior.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Nelson councillors support clean car policy

Nelson City councillors are adopting a clean car policy which will see them ditching gas guzzlers in favour of electric. Stuff reports the councillors voted unanimously for the change at a local meeting on December 15.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// Japan may change car taxes

Parliament’s approval needed to extend tax breaks on low emitters post-2023 and exclude petrol cars from 2025.

• Read this article on AutoFile.co.nz

// Australian engineering students build record-breaking EV

An Australian solar-powered electric car, designed and built by university students, has claimed a provisional Guinness World Record by going 1000km on a single charge in under 12 hours.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

// Leaf lights up Christmas as Nissan celebrates 250,000th vehicle

Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK (NMMUK) is celebrating the production milestone of 250,000 Leaf vehicles by using one to provide the sparkle for its Christmas display at the Sunderland Plant.

• Read this article on EVsandBeyond.co.nz

ONE LINERS

• Paul Walker’s BMW M1 sells for $1 million
• Musk’s troubling week pushes Tesla investors closer to the edge
• Asterix is back in a new movie and driving a Citroen 2CV (sort of)
• McLaren confirms stealth fighter tech coming to cars
• The Good Oil: Hennessey Performance Audi RS 6 and the Ultimate Christmas car record

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

// XMAS Deliveries

The Full Brief will be taking a break for 3 weeks over Xmas. The last email will Friday 23rd Dec, and the first for 2023 will be Monday 16th Jan. Have a great Xmas and New Year. Thanks for reading.

HOT TOPIC

// These are the most viewed cars on Trade Me in 2022

Kiwis certainly showed their appetite for cars this year, with the most viewed cars on Trade Me including a Shelby Cobra kit car, Fast and Furious-inspired Ford Mustang, and even a one-of-a-kind Nissan Presage.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// More on this 

• AutoFile says DIY car project tops listings
• AutoTalk says Top Trade Me motors listings of 2022 revealed
• Stuff Motoring says Trade Me reveals the 10 most clicked-on cars of 2022

BEST OF THE REST

// Lexus NZ recalls 1064 vehicles due to fire risk

Lexus New Zealand has announced that it will recall 1064 vehicles concerning a potential fire risk issue relating to a fuel tank component in certain models.

• Read this article on Stuff.co.nz

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Helping dealers buy and sell stock, since 2019

With two auctions every week, you can sell your stock to over 600 wholesale buyers, or buy stock from other dealers and some of the largest fleet and rental companies in New Zealand.

• Check out the FAQ for more info
• Or just register for free and have a look at what’s available.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Rivian R1T earns top IIHS safety award, watch it get crash tested here

The 2022-2023 Rivian R1T has earned the highest safety rating, Top Safety Pick+, from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

• Read this article on Electrek.co

IN OTHER NEWS

// New 2023 Nissan Qashqai – Bigger, Stronger, Safer

Nissan continues with its product renewal onslaught, the average age of its wares now just 14 months.

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Ford Mustang Mach-E earns top ANCAP crash test rating

Ford’s fully electric Mustang Mach-E has been awarded a 5-star safety rating by independent crash testing body, ANCAP.

• Read this article on Stuff.co.nz

// Ford Heritage Vault: classic brochures and pics free to download (no thanks to Australia)

If you’re looking for a rabbit hole to disappear down over the holiday season, this could be perfect.

• Read this article on Driven.co.nz

// Jaguar F-Pace PHEV gets more electric-only range

The Jaguar F-Pace model range has been updated for 2024 with the P400e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) receiving more electric-only range…

• Read this article on AutoCar.co.nz

// Ford beefs up electric ute manufacturing team

A lengthy list of pre-orders has motivated Ford’s decision to expand its manufacturing systems dedicated to its fully electric F-150 Lightning.

• Read this article on Stuff.co.nz

ONE LINERS

• Seventh-gen Ford Mustang power figures released
• Elon Musk Sells Another $3.58 Billion of Tesla Stock
• Spending on cars falls $4m
• AutoTalk Weekly Wrap – Episode 38
• Toyota unveils electric Hilux concept in Thailand

HELPFUL RESOURCES

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

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.

Join the discussion

// XMAS Deliveries

The Full Brief will be taking a break for 3 weeks over Xmas. The last email will Friday 23rd Dec, and the first for 2023 will be Monday 16th Jan. Have a great Xmas and New Year. Thanks for reading.