HOT TOPIC
// Mazda forms expert team for advancing rotary engine tech
Mazda’s iconic rotary engine, a symbol of the Japanese marque’s innovative spirit, has made a remarkable comeback.
HOT TOPIC
// BYD confirms plug-in hybrid for NZ market
Having launched two new models in late 2023, Chinese carmaker BYD is set for a significant 2024 release calendar, with four new models set to join its line-up.
- EVs and Beyond says BYD Seal U not coming to NZ as a BEV
HOT TOPIC
// Colonial faces earnings drop
Company says CCD’s axeing has had negative impact on dealerships.
- AutoTalk says Colonial signals weaker earnings following CCD impact
HOT TOPIC
// Director quits Geneva post
Finance company seeking replacement for former chairman.
- AutoCar says Smale resigns from Geneva Finance independent director role
- AutoTalk says Smale resigns from Geneva Finance board
HOT TOPIC
// ComCom taking action against two car finance companies
The Commerce Commission will file civil proceedings in the High Court against Go Car Finance Limited and Second Chance Finance Limited
- AutoFile says Court looms for car finance firms
SPONSORED BY AUTOFLIP
// 850 dealers in Australia can’t be wrong
With 65 employees and more than 850 dealers using the service in Australia, a strategic Kiwi partnership signed means AutoFlip is coming to New Zealand. Read about it here in AutoTalk, or learn more on the AutoFlip website.
AutoFlip offers dealers a simple way to buy stock quickly, with a wide range of quality vehicles listed daily. And sell aged stock and trade-ins fast, with access to licensed buyers ready to purchase.
Register now to be part of the Feb 2024 official launch
BEST OF THE REST
// Pricing confirmed for Suzuki’s 5-door off-roading favourite
Suzuki’s popular baby off-roader now has a big brother – one with more doors, more space and the same fantastic capabilities.
// Could the introduction of RUCs kill off the plug-in hybrid?
For consumers wanting the environmental benefits of an electric vehicle combined with the range of an internal combustion vehicle, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) have long been a compelling middle ground.
IN OTHER NEWS
// NZ’s world-leading BMW M sales mix
BMW New Zealand shot to the front of the field in 2023, leading the world in the sale of new BMW M cars among its overall model mix.
// BYD unveils integrated vehicle intelligence strategy
BYD hosted the 2024 Dream Day at its Shenzhen headquarters on January 16 to unveil its strategy for Integrated Vehicle Intelligence along with the launch of its new XUANJI Architecture.
// CCS under scrutiny
Minister orders review of scheme for new and used vehicle importers.
// BYD accelerates into the smart car arena with a whopping $23b investment
BYD, currently the world’s leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has announced a groundbreaking investment of approximately ¥100 billion (NZ$23 billion)
INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS
// BMW, Like Tesla, Will Use Humanoid Robots At Its U.S. Car Factory
Between moves from Tesla and now BMW, it looks like AI-powered robots may have a place building cars of the future.
ONE LINERS
- Lancia Ypsilon revealed in full before we’re meant to see it
- AutoTalk Weekly Wrap – Episode 80
- Tesla Model 3 facelift loses five-star safety rating
- European electric car sales fall for the first time since 2020
- Mazda unveils sinister new spec for popular SUV
OTHER STUFF
// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group
Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.
// Advertise Here to reach the Industry
Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.