HOT TOPIC
// Audi unveils Dakar-bound RS Q E-tron
In just under a year from conception, Audi Sport has started testing the new Audi RS Q e-tron, with which it will take the Dakar Rally in January 2022.
- Stuff Motoring says Audi reveals the remarkable RS Q e-tron to tackle the Dakar rally
HOT TOPIC
// Ssangyong takes on Bronco, Wrangler with new off-roader
With the Jeep Wrangler as popular these days as ever, the Ford Bronco quickly becoming a marketing phenomena, and waiting lists worldwide for the little Suzuki Jimny, the off-roader four-wheel drive segment is absolutely pumping.
- Stuff Motoring says SsangYong teases its upcoming Jeep fighter
HOT TOPIC
// Ford NZ embraces EV rebates
Marque tweaks pricing of hybrid van to make it eligible for money back from the government.
- AutoCar says Ford confirms huge $20,000 plug-in hybrid price cut
SPONSORED BY AUTOHUB
// AUTOHUB | Vehicle shipping and logistics made easy.
AUTOHUB offer the easiest way to import and export vehicles across a range of global shipping routes, securely transporting your vehicle door to door with a guaranteed fixed price.
BEST OF THE REST
// Lamborghini confirms plug-in hybrid V12 for Aventador successor
Lamborghini’s Aventador is nearing the end of its life, eleven years after it first debuted. The Ultimae edition represents the last of the line, but also the final time Lamborghini will offer an unassisted V12 engine in its road cars.
// Updated: Ford NZ slowly phasing out Ranger 3.2-litre turbo diesel
UPDATE: A Ford New Zealand spokesperson has contacted NZ Autocar to clarify that the firm is currently not phasing out the 3.2-litre five-cylinder Ranger just yet. This follows reference to the engine being an ‘outgoing’ fixture in the Ranger’s current line-up.
IN OTHER NEWS
// Tributes paid to dealership boss
Business closes for the day to honour late owner whose automotive career started and ended at Wanganui Toyota.
// US state now cancelling registrations on legally imported JDM cars
America’s somewhat infamous 25-year import rule has gained particular notoriety over the last few years for its impact on the price and demand for 1990s Japanese nostalgia. It’s a big reason why any Nissan with a ‘GT-R’ badge costs moonbeams around the world.
// Ford dealers are charged up and EV ready
Ford New Zealand says its retail partners have completed technical training and invested in charging infrastructure to become certified EV dealers and be at the forefront of the electrification change.
// Pump pain signals EV gain
Petrol prices have hit their highest in 18 months, expected to push interest in EVs. “It’s never been a better time to buy an EV,” says Drive Electric chair Mark Gilbert who expects price rises at the pump will trigger even more EV enquiries.
// Tesla profit soars in Q2 2021 results
Tesla says its Q2 this year broke new and notable records, including revenue of US$11.532 billion, producing and delivering more than 200,000 EVs and exceeding US$1b of GAAP net income for the first time.
// NZTA looks at changing widely condemned rules for large vehicles
After months of criticism from large vehicle owners across the country, the Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency has confirmed that it’s open to changing one of the most controversial recent rule changes in the country.
// EV emoji sought for world EV day
World EV Day founders ABB and Green.TV are issuing an “EVmoji” challenge to participants aged six to 16 to create an electric vehicle emoji.
// Hyundai Xcient FCEV ready for California
Hyundai will deploy about 30 Class 8 fuel cell electric (FCEV) trucks for regional freight distribution in California.
// Vehicle imports reach record value
New high for the sector driven by a jump in passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
// Brands killing off small cars due to emissions regulations
The European Union’s upcoming Euro 7 emissions standards have forced several car manufacturers into a rethink, particularly when it comes to their smallest platforms on sale.
ONE LINERS
- Former Top Gear star Richard Hammond auctioning off impressive car collection
- American trucks are nearly the same size as WWII tanks
- VW Australia reveals Walkinshaw-tuned Amarok W580X
- Is this Mitsubishi Evo Tommi Makinen edition worth $250,000?
- Polestar to double global presence by 2022
HELPFUL RESOURCES
// 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 Calculator
Input vehicle make and/or model to calculate if the car will receive a rebate, fee or sits in the zero band (no change).