NZ Automotive Industry News

September 23rd, 2022

HOT TOPIC

// BYD Atto 3 hits 500 deliveries

“Extraordinary demand” has seen BYD Atto 3 deliveries reach 500 in three months.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New Mercedes-AMG C 63 revealed with four-cylinder

The day has finally come when we are greeted with a Mercedes-AMG C 63 that no longer features a V8 under the bonnet. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it has less power.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Video: Electric seaglider flys

An electric seaglider prototype has successfully completed its maiden flight, says New Zealand-based Ocean Flyer which wants to bring 25 of them here.

// More on this 

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BEST OF THE REST

// A Ranger EV? Internal combustion still the right choice for most customers, says Ford

Ford’s global executives have reaffirmed that the Blue Oval doesn’t just intended to persist with diesel and petrol-powered Rangers in its International Markets Group (which includes New Zealand) in the years ahead – it’s also actively looking for opportunities to expand Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) technology.

// BMW still isn’t totally convinced by battery electric

BMW is still holding reservations about the big push into EVs, as Europe prepares to go battery over the next decade.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// The world’s first Tesla solar neighborhood is becoming reality

The world’s first Tesla solar neighborhood is becoming a reality in Austin, where Tesla is deploying solar roofs and Powerwall in a brand-new development.

IN OTHER NEWS

// New Mitsubishi ASX wears a familiar face

Mitsubishi Motors has revealed its new ASX compact SUV which looks remarkably similar to the Renault Captur.

// New face at finance company

Elaine Owen is now a member of Avanti Finance’s senior executive team as head of product and markets.

// This MX-5 barchetta restomod offers fun for one

The Mazda MX-5 has been a canvas for tuners, racers, and enthusiasts alike, with Gorgona Cars being the latest to paint its vision of the car.

// Fake plate sales taken down

Listings for counterfeit vehicle certification plates removed after New Zealand transport officials raise concerns with overseas website.

// AA launches South Island first

Special vehicle removes the need to call for a tow truck if technicians can’t get broken-down cars started again.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

No changes this week

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 23rd, 20222022-09-22T22:48:48+12:00

September 22nd, 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Survey suggests Kiwis don’t support an ICE ban

According to a survey conducted by electric carmaker Polestar, the majority of Kiwis do not support a proposed ban on new petrol and diesel-powered vehicles within the next ten years.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// You can now rent a BYD Atto 3 in NZ

Europcar New Zealand has secured the exclusive rights to offer the ever-so popular BYD Atto 3 as a rental vehicle at its airport locations.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Mitsubishi updates the ASX with a French face

Mitsubishi has updated the ASX crossover with a distinctly French look. There’s a good reason for that – the ASX is now a rebadged Renault Captur, at least for Europe.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// At long last, Volkswagen confirms local ID. pricing

Volkswagen is finally bringing the all-electric ID. range to New Zealand, starting with the ID.4 SUV and ID.5 coupe-SUV. Interestingly, there’s no mention of the ID.3 hatchback.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// Boost your accessory sales!

Auto+Aid Long Life Ceramic Polish is the trick pre-owned dealerships have been missing. It’s a low cost/high margin product – everyone wins. All the benefits of a ceramic coating – in an easy-to-apply polish form.

  • Ideal for the pre-owned vehicle or “paint only” customer
  • 30-minute application Ceramic Polish – Your groomers will love it!
  • Complimentary Auto+Aid Car Cleaning Pack worth over $80 RRP
  • 24-month warranty backed by Newcoat International

Call now 09 889 6535 email business@newcoat.co.nz or click here for more information.

BEST OF THE REST

// Mercedes-Benz introduces first electric vans locally

Mercedes-Benz Vans has just introduced its first fully electric vans to the local market, the eVito Panel Van and eVito Tourer.

// Uber to phase out internal combustion cars by 2030

The CEO of leading ride-share company Uber has confirmed that the firm plans to bar its drivers from operating on the app with internal combustion engine vehicles by 2030 in the US.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Ram promises electric pickup lineup that will challenge Ford and Rivian in range and beyond

Ram Trucks is quickly falling behind as automakers like Ford and Rivian are already scaling production of their highly anticipated electric pickup trucks.

IN OTHER NEWS

// New look for 3 Series

BMW NZ reveals four variants will soon be hitting the market with pricing starting at $86k.

// Decision close on US rules for AVs

Ford and General Motors are waiting to learn whether they will gain exemptions to use self-driving features.

// Drive to dump cobalt from EVs

Cost and labour concerns prompt marques and government officials to focus on batteries that don’t use rare earth mineral.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 22nd, 20222022-09-21T22:18:24+12:00

September 21st, 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Volkswagen NZ releases pricing for ID.4 and ID.5

Volkswagen New Zealand has released specifications and pricing for the first of its fully electric ID models to grace our roads, the ID.4 and ID.5.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// More details for all-new Ford Transit Custom revealed

Ford recently showcased its all-new electric Transit Custom at the IAA Transportation Show for 2022 in Hannover, Germany

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// New directors on board

Chairman Chris Stephenson says VIA is “very lucky to have two people with such an expansive knowledge”. Frank Willett and Robert Young have been appointed to the board of the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA).

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// Boost your accessory sales!

Auto+Aid Long Life Ceramic Polish is the trick pre-owned dealerships have been missing. It’s a low cost/high margin product – everyone wins. All the benefits of a ceramic coating – in an easy-to-apply polish form.

  • Ideal for the pre-owned vehicle or “paint only” customer
  • 30-minute application Ceramic Polish – Your groomers will love it!
  • Complimentary Auto+Aid Car Cleaning Pack worth over $80 RRP
  • 24-month warranty backed by Newcoat International

Call now 09 889 6535 email business@newcoat.co.nz or click here for more information.

BEST OF THE REST

// Ford says it ‘learned a lot’ from Tesla

A senior Ford executive has admitted the brand has learnt from Tesla’s approach to selling electric vehicles.

// Nissan SR20DET engines to be reproduced in limited numbers

Nissan has given its blessing to Japanese dealership, tuner, and motorsport company Mercury Fujimori Japan to build a limited run of 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder SR20DET engines.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// GAC Aion Unveils Rimac Nevera-Rivalling Electric Hypercar

With 1,225 horsepower, it sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a claimed 1.9 seconds.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Group makes more room for marque

Farmer Autovillage modernises its central hub after spending months on a “magnificent” makeover. A dealer group is celebrating the revamp of its Skoda showroom and in-house cafe, saying the changes have given all of its businesses a lift.

// Lexus dealership reportedly used a Tesla Model 3 photo

A New Zealand Lexus dealership which allegedly used a Tesla Model 3 interior photo in its social media campaign about safe driving tips has gained some global attention.

// MIA questions motorcycle inclusion in Clean Car Standard

The Motor Industry Association is “incredulous” motorcycles are included in the Clean Car Act, despite the official wording only mentioning cars, utes, SUVs, and vans under 3500kg.

// NZAI, 2 Cheap Cars aiming for big financial turnaround

The temporary six-month appointment of major shareholder David (Yusuke) Sena to the role of chief operating officer was confirmed at the annual shareholders meeting of New Zealand Automotive Investments (NZAI) on September 2.

// Volkswagen sets Porsche IPO at up to 9.4 billion euros

Volkswagen has set the price range for the multibillion-euro sale of a minority stake in luxury brand Porsche as it prepares an initial public offering to fund VW’s investments in new technologies and businesses including electric cars, software and services.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 21st, 20222022-09-20T22:53:09+12:00

September 20th 2022

HOT TOPIC

// MIA surprised that Clean Car Standard includes motorbikes

The MIA has been surprised to learn that the Land Transport Clean Vehicles Amendment Act, which enables the Clean Car emissions standard that will come into effect on 1 January 2023, also applies to any importer of a road-going motorcycle.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// Boost your accessory sales!

Auto+Aid Long Life Ceramic Polish is the trick pre-owned dealerships have been missing. It’s a low cost/high margin product – everyone wins. All the benefits of a ceramic coating – in an easy-to-apply polish form.

  • Ideal for the pre-owned vehicle or “paint only” customer
  • 30-minute application Ceramic Polish – Your groomers will love it!
  • Complimentary Auto+Aid Car Cleaning Pack worth over $80 RRP
  • 24-month warranty backed by Newcoat International

Call now 09 889 6535 email business@newcoat.co.nz or click here for more information.

BEST OF THE REST

// Five-star safety rating for Haval Jolion

The GWM Haval Jolion has received a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, with the model scoring highly across a suite of tests.

// EV battery charges in three minutes, lasts 20 years

Harvard-backed start-up Adden Energy has developed an EV solid-state battery capable of fully charging in three minutes and lasting 20 years.

// BMW confirms pricing for updated 3 Series

BMW New Zealand has announced its new-look 3 Series line-up, along with pricing for each variant.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// 24% Of New Car Sales Now Electric In The Netherlands!

The Dutch auto market has finally seen the light at the end of the tunnel, growing 9% year over year (YoY) in August,

IN OTHER NEWS

// The all-new Ram TRX has landed in NZ

The all-new Ram TRX has officially arrived in New Zealand. It’s the world’s most powerful production petrol pick-up, designed to conquer the desert.

// Dutch students create carbon-eating car

A team of students from the Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands have come up with a car that consumes more carbon than it produces.

// Young mechanic’s journey highlights UCOL advantage

For those hoping to make the jump from high school to the motoring trade, programmes like those offered at the Universal College of Learning, or UCOL, offer a valuable opportunity to get a head start.

// Auckland’s ‘shocking’ road transport emissions

Emissions from road transport in Auckland amount to 135 kg of CO2 every second.

// More than 1000km of range ‘unnecessary’: BMW

BMW’s ‘Neue Klasse’ (New Class) vehicles are due to arrive in 2025, set to be the first vehicles from the company designed from the ground up to be electric.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 20th 20222022-09-19T23:08:18+12:00

September 19th, 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Ford unveils all-new Mustang

Seventh-generation model set to go on sale in NZ next year.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Dodge celebrates drag racing legend with Charger King Daytona

It’s a new week and Dodge has unveiled another new “Last Call” model. This time around it’s in the form…

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Turners wins marketing gong with ‘Tina from Turners’ ads

Turners Automotive Group has emerged as a big winner at the New Zealand Marketing Awards.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY NEWCOAT

// Boost your accessory sales!

Auto+Aid Long Life Ceramic Polish is the trick pre-owned dealerships have been missing. It’s a low cost/high margin product – everyone wins. All the benefits of a ceramic coating – in an easy-to-apply polish form.

  • Ideal for the pre-owned vehicle or “paint only” customer
  • 30-minute application Ceramic Polish – Your groomers will love it!
  • Complimentary Auto+Aid Car Cleaning Pack worth over $80 RRP
  • 24-month warranty backed by Newcoat International

Call now 09 889 6535 email business@newcoat.co.nz or click here for more information.

BEST OF THE REST

// Hennessey debuts six-wheeled third-gen F-150 VelociRaptor

Hennessey isn’t finished putting too many wheels on things. Earlier this year it was the Ram TRX truck, which became the Mammoth 1000 6×6, now it’s the Ford F-150’s turn.

// This barn find is Bruce McLaren’s first-ever sports car

When you pry open the doors to an old barn or storage shed, the last thing you expect to see is a priceless sportscar.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Watch BMW’s new ‘Mad Max’ electric Dune Taxi climb some of the tallest sand dunes known to man

You won’t want to miss this one. BMW Middle East released a video teasing a new electric dune taxi that looks as if it came straight out of Mad Max.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Subaru kills the XV

The Subaru XV is dead, long live the Subaru Crosstrek.

// Monster Ink – Special finish and fittings for top SP model

We still have vivid memories of riding the previous-generation Monster, sadly something we don’t get to do anymore since the…

// Financial Services Federation warns of online scammers

The Financial Services Federation is the latest automotive industry group to be utilised by online scammers in an attempt to con customers.

// Staggered launch for Peugeot’s electrified 308 range

Peugeot New Zealand has confirmed the new 308 GT plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) will be arriving in showrooms in late December, following the 308 petrol hatchback models in late October.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 19th, 20222022-09-19T09:08:02+12:00

September 16th, 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Revealed – Ford’s seventh generation Mustang

When talking about their new seventh gen Mustang, Ford people use the word icon rather freely.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// MG confirms electric hatchback for New Zealand

MG Motor New Zealand has announced that the fully electric MG 4 hatch is set to join the brand’s line-up from mid-2023.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Genesis EV ‘energy roaming’ saves up to 70% on public charging

In a New Zealand first, Genesis has developed “energy roaming” for EV drivers, making it cheaper and easier to charge when out and about.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Electric vehicles on show at free weekend expo

The biggest display of new battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the country is happening this weekend in Christchurch.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY TRADE MY CAR

hey car dealers

// Get a steady flow of sales leads direct to your inbox.

Hot leads from customers who have a vehicle to trade-in and they’re looking to make a deal.

With our pay-per-lead pricing model, it’s free to be on list to get all the leads, and you only pay if you choose to send them an offer.

For a limited time, the first offer is also FREE (One free per dealership).

Click here to get on the list

BEST OF THE REST

// New Maserati GranTurismo design and engine revealed

The new Maserati GranTurismo is just around the corner with the Italian marque recently unveiling its exterior design and confirming what’s under the bonnet, ahead of an official reveal.

// MG Motor to provide 3000 EV chargers

MG Motor Australia and New Zealand has committed to providing 3000 heavily discounted electric vehicle chargers for major cities and metropolitan centres over three years.

// Retail spending on cars stable for August

New data from Stats NZ shows that retail card spending on vehicles in August remained stable, as the market continues to deal with numerous challenges.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Hackers Can Steal Tesla’s EVs With New Tricky Relay Attack

It seems criminals are always looking for new ways to steal cars, and Tesla’s EVs are a welcome target.

IN OTHER NEWS

// This is a key selling point for the F150 Lightning, according to Ford

In an ironic twist, buyers have been drawn to Ford’s new electric pick-up truck by what’s under the bonnet. It’s called a frunk in the United States – as in front trunk – and it’s proving a winner for Ford’s F150 Lightning, which has a waitlist of more than 200,000 buyers.

// Federation issues scam warning

‘Revolting individuals’ using federation’s name and logo in bid to extract cash and information from Kiwis. The Financial Services Federation (FSF) is urging Kiwis to be vigilant if contacted by anyone claiming to be from the organization asking for money because it is a scam.

// Hidden crash testing code found in Teslas

It has been reported that a specific code used for crash testing was found in Tesla’s vehicle software and is becoming a concern for testing agencies.

// Tyres scheme draws interest

Trial of programme is collecting valuable data and putting systems to the test before it goes nationwide.

// Dealership lands new general manager

Greg Bastion ‘feeling really good’ to be part of Armstrong’s team after taking charge of Subaru site.

// Electric GT is ‘game-changer’

Kia says EV6 variant will bring supercar performance to zero-emissions motoring.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

ADDED THIS WEEK

ISUZU

  • 7.9% pa Finance rate for entire range

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 16th, 20222022-09-15T23:29:45+12:00

September 15th, 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Ferrari Purosangue is a sports car-inspired SUV

Just a few years ago, Ferrari insisted it would never make an SUV. However, the booming segment looks like it was too much for the Italian brand to resist and has now revealed its first model in the category, the Purosangue.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY TRADE MY CAR

hey car dealers

// Get a steady flow of sales leads direct to your inbox.

Hot leads from customers who have a vehicle to trade-in and they’re looking to make a deal.

With our pay-per-lead pricing model, it’s free to be on list to get all the leads, and you only pay if you choose to send them an offer.

For a limited time, the first offer is also FREE (One free per dealership).

Click here to get on the list

BEST OF THE REST

// ANCAP launches investigation into Tesla Model Y

The Australian New Car Assessment Program, or ANCAP, has confirmed that it is investigating the Tesla Model Y’s recent five-star safety rating following allegations made about the model on social media.

// GM’s Cruise robotaxi service to expand

General Motors’ self-driving car company has announced plans to expand its robotaxi service that recently launched in California into new markets in Arizona and Texas before the end of this year.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// This modular off-grid solar EV charger can be installed in just four hours

Campbell, California-based solar-powered EV charger company Paired Power has just debuted a modular, off-grid electric vehicle charger that is powered by a solar canopy.

// Hyundai Has No Plans To Abandon Internal Combustion Engine Development

There was a rumor that circulated late last year that Hyundai was about to end all internal combustion engine development. The manufacturer eventually announced that it was not true,

IN OTHER NEWS

// The new Pagani Utopia is a 635kW manual hypercar

Pagani’s new Utopia 635kW hypercar is available with a gated seven-speed manual transmission that’s hooked up to a twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 from Mercedes-AMG.

// Suzuki invests in Australian company Applied EV

Suzuki has made a strategic investment in Australian technology company Applied EV to accelerate the software development for next-generation e-mobility.

// Medium-sized car sales jump

Registrations of all new cars up by 12.3 per cent as those in the medium segment climb by 66.8 per cent. The number of new passenger vehicles sold in New Zealand has increased by 12.3 per cent in 2022 compared to last year.

// VinFast starts global EV deliveries December

Vietnam-based automotive manufacturer VinFast intends starting global EV deliveries this December.

// Ford siblings top for safety

“A five-star safety rating is particularly important considering the range of uses for the Ranger and Everest.” The new Ford Ranger and its partner model, the Everest, have secured five-star Ancap ratings.

// Volkswagen turns ID.4 into off-roader

Although Volkswagen’s electric ID.4 was never destined for the dirt, the German carmaker wanted to explore what the SUV would look like if it were by creating an off-road-focused version called the ID.Xtreme concept.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 15th, 20222022-09-14T22:52:20+12:00

September 14th, 2022

TODAY’S BEST

// Confirmed: Mahindra to bring EV models to New Zealand

New Zealand will soon have a new combatant in the economy EV space in the form of the Mahindra XUV 400 EV.

// Renault issues nine separate local vehicle recalls

Renault’s local arm has taken the unique step of releasing a total of nine different vehicle recalls within the space of 11 days, concerning a large number of older models.

SPONSORED BY TRADE MY CAR

hey car dealers

// Get a steady flow of sales leads direct to your inbox.

Hot leads from customers who have a vehicle to trade-in and they’re looking to make a deal.

With our pay-per-lead pricing model, it’s free to be on list to get all the leads, and you only pay if you choose to send them an offer.

For a limited time, the first offer is also FREE (One free per dealership).

Click here to get on the list

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Wireless EV Charging On-The-Go Coming To PA Turnpike

Wireless EV charging is finally coming to the nation’s highways, and that could help solve the charging bottleneck when millions of electric vehicles surge into the mass market.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Peugeot reveals two new electric 308 models

Two new fully electric versions of the Peugeot 308 have been revealed, including the E-308 and E-308 SW wagon variant.

// Masks off for dealers

Government ditches Covid-19 restrictions for businesses and also announces public holiday to mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

// Bandag celebrates diamond jubilee down under

Tyre retread manufacturer Bandag is celebrating 60 years of local manufacturing in Australia and says it’s positioned to play a key role in the future of sustainable transport.

// New company chairman unveiled

Mike Walsh takes over from Stan Zurkiewicz as chairman of VTNZ’s parent company. DEKRA NZ, the parent company of VTNZ, has appointed Mike Walsh as chairman of its board of directors.

// Straight from the Hornet’s nest

Honda continues to drop teaser snippets regarding development of its Hornet concept. Now we know it is destined to be powered by a completely new parallel twin eight-valve single-cam engine developing 68kW (91hp) at 9500rpm and 75Nm of torque from 7250rpm.

// Pagani Utopia is a driver’s dream brought to life

It’s as if we’ve received a blessing from the automotive gods with Pagani today revealing its third model line, the Utopia, complete with a V12 and manual gearbox – a welcome change among a sea of hybrids and electric hypercars of late.

ONE LINERS

  • First orders for $150k ‘Flying car’ take off in Tuscany
  • Mercedes-Benz plans local testing of electric eEconic waste truck
  • GM patents inflatable steering wheel rim
  • Road safety expert’s plea to legislate lifesaving technology in new cars
  • Legendary Harley Earl-designed cars to go on display
  • Honda reinvigorates the NT moniker

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 14th, 20222022-09-14T12:33:43+12:00

September 13th, 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Local pricing and specs for the new Toyota GR86 revealed

The all-new GR86 is a sizable upgrade on the previous and highly popular Toyota 86 two-door sports car, and a new addition to the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) inspired GR series.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Five-star safety rating for Ford Ranger and Everest

One of New Zealand’s best-selling vehicles, the new Ford Ranger and its SUV partner, the Ford Everest, have been given five-star safety ratings after undergoing a full suite of tests in Australia.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Wholesale car sales drop 1.5% in June quarter

New figures from Stats NZ show a decline in New Zealand’s wholesale car sale market across the second quarter of 2022.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY TRADE MY CAR

hey car dealers

// Get a steady flow of sales leads direct to your inbox.

Hot leads from customers who have a vehicle to trade-in and they’re looking to make a deal.

With our pay-per-lead pricing model, it’s free to be on list to get all the leads, and you only pay if you choose to send them an offer.

For a limited time, the first offer is also FREE (One free per dealership).

Click here to get on the list

BEST OF THE REST

// Mahindra’s cut-price EV could make it to NZ

Mahindra has whipped the covers off the XUV 400 EV; the brand’s first fully electric vehicle. And it could be a starter for New Zealand’s burgeoning economy EV segment.

// Ora Good Cat earns five-star NCAP safety rating

Euro NCAP officials have been on an electric car crash test spree of late, recently including the likes of the Tesla Model Y, the Genesis GV60, and the Kia Niro.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Aptera publicly debuts the gamma version of its 1,000-mile range solar electric vehicle

Following the teasing of interior images of the gamma version of its upcoming solar electric vehicle (SEV) last month, Aptera officially debuted the full prototype

// Exploding The “Electric Cars Will Destroy The Grid” Myth

The news and the internet are aflame with stories about how electric cars will destroy the electrical grid.

IN OTHER NEWS

// GM bets on EVs for the masses with the new Equinox

General Motors is ready to test both the mass market’s appetite for electric vehicles and its own strategy to provide them with the release of the electric replacement for its Chevrolet Equinox SUV in 2023.

// KTM X-Bow GT-XR is a race car for the road

Although KTM is more commonly known for its motorcycles, it dips its toes into car making every so often and has recently revealed its next road-going car, the X-Bow GT-XR.

// EV high-speed motor developed

A new high-speed motor that could increase EV range has been developed by University of New South Wales (UNSW) engineers in Sydney.

// Potential Motors Adventure 1 shows big adventure comes in small sizes

Explorers and adventurers alike, you may want to take a look at Potential Motors’ new electric off-road recreational vehicle (ORV) called the Adventure 1.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 13th, 20222022-09-12T22:47:18+12:00

September 12th, 2022

HOT TOPIC

// Jeep unveils its first fully electric vehicles

Jeep has marked World EV Day by debuting its first dedicated electric vehicles, while simultaneously detailing its future plug-in plans.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// The “fastest, most powerful” pick-up arrives in New Zealand

The fastest, most-powerful mass-produced truck is the call Ram Trucks is shouting out across the land of the long white cloud, with the American brand’s 1500 TRX model officially arriving in New Zealand.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Drive Electric: World EV Day worth celebrating

Mark Gilbert is the chair of Drive Electric, a not-for-profit organization that promotes the benefits of making e-mobility mainstream and encourages accelerated electric vehicle uptake across the country.

// More on this 

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BEST OF THE REST

// EVs with five-star safety

Tesla Model Y sets Ancap record with score of 98 per cent for safety-assist pillar. Plus: Kia Niro and Genesis GV60.

// Leaf batteries come full circle at Nissan casting plant

Nissan Australia is launching a circular economy project in Victoria, with the Nissan Casting Australia Plant (NCAP) to use recycled Leaf batteries to power part of its production facility.

// Nissan NZ awards Women in Automotive Scholarship

Nissan’s local arm has named the first recipient of its Women in Automotive Scholarship award.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Ford CEO wants to compete with Tesla, will meet with dealers to lower EV prices

Ford is not backing down from a showdown with Tesla as the EV race heats up. According to a new report, Ford’s CEO Jim Farley will meet with dealers next week in a bid to lower the price of its electric vehicles to compete with Tesla.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Mercedes van deal with Rivian opens door to broader partnership

Mercedes-Benz and Rivian Automotive’s plans to jointly build electric vans in Europe is a potential win-win that could lead to further collaboration as an established manufacturer looks to share costs and an inexperienced company struggles to scale up.

// Take Charge Expo to electrify Christchurch

The hottest EV in town, the BYD Atto 3, will be at the Take Charge Christchurch Expo next weekend.

// Croydon Wholesalers pays a unique tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

West Auckland used car dealership Croydon Wholesalers is paying its respect to the overnight death of Queen Elizabeth II in its own unique manner.

// Children driving the EV future

Children are playing a key role in accelerating the switch to electric cars, although many are unable yet to get behind the wheel themselves.

// NZAI AGM round-up, ute deluge: Auto Media Group live weekly wrap

Richard Edwards hosts this week’s Auto Media Group weekly wrap panel alongside AutoTalk news editor Matthew Hansen and industry consultant Graeme Macdonald.

// Green hydrogen for scheme

Companies join forces for cars in sharing scheme to be powered by 100 percent green fuel.

ONE LINERS

HELPFUL RESOURCES

NZCD Main Header

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Many of today’s topics are being discussed in the NZ Car Dealers private Facebook group. Check out what industry people have to say.

// Current National New Car Deals

Updated every Friday, here’s a complete list of current National deals for new cars, utes, and light commercials.

// Clean Car Discount / Fee Finder

RightCar.govt.nz is the Government recommended website for rebate/fee information. Simply search from the Home page to find a vehicle’s rebate/fee.

September 12th, 20222022-09-11T21:02:43+12:00
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