HOT TOPIC
// Leapmotor B10 Ultra Hybrid EV arrives in NZ from $39,990
Leapmotor has confirmed the New Zealand launch of its B10 SUV Ultra Hybrid EV, with the range-extender model set to arrive in dealerships in July 2026. Pricing starts from $39,990 plus on-road costs for the Life trim, with the Design variant priced from $44,990 plus on-road costs.
- AutoTrader says Leapmotor adds range-extender B10 hybrid SUV to NZ line-up
HOT TOPIC
// Ford New Zealand extends roadside cover and launches pre-paid service plans
Ford New Zealand has launched a new customer care package that extends standard Roadside Assistance coverage from three to five years for all new vehicles purchased from 1 June 2026.
- AutoTrader says Ford NZ introduces fixed-price servicing for Ranger and Everest
SPONSORED BY JAZZ PRINT
// Let’s Jazz you up!
For all your Automotive needs:
Number Plate Surrounds | Registration Holders | Flags and Accessories | WOF and Service Decals | Key Rings and Service Tags | Window Decals | Printing and Stationery | Promotional Products
For orders and enquiries:
sales@jazzprint.co.nz | 0800 52 99 77 | www.jazzprint.co.nz
BEST OF THE REST
// Vehicle dealers urged to watch for money laundering red flags
The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has released new guidance for high-value dealers — including those selling vehicles — on how to identify and report suspicious activity linked to money laundering and terrorism financing.
IN OTHER NEWS
// Helping unlock value from data
Angela Drake has been appointed customer partnerships lead at InfoAgent and brings more than 15 years of automotive industry experience to the role.
// Leaping to level two
Leapmotor has confirmed the B05 BEV, which it presented at Fieldays, will arrive at dealerships from August in two levels of specification and a launch offer from $43,990 plus on-road costs.
// LDV New Zealand signs major partnership with Northland Rugby
LDV New Zealand has announced a major commercial partnership with Northland Rugby Union, with the brand set to feature on the front of both the Northland Taniwha and Northland Kauri jerseys from the 2026 season.
// Dealer recounts ‘horrendous’ SH1 crash
Prominent Palmerston North car dealer and speedway promoter Bruce Robertson has described a fatal crash on State Highway 1 near Hunterville as “horrendous” after surviving the collision over the weekend.
// Outgoing Patrol ends V8 era
New Zealand consumers are being warned time is running out to snap up a piece of automotive history, with production of Nissan’s V8-powered Y62 Patrol set to conclude in August.
// PHEV Power at a Price: Audi RS5 Avant Arrives in New Zealand ahead of launch
While station wagons might be a dying breed, there’s no question in our minds as to whether they’re cooler than their high-riding SUV counterparts. Audi, a brand synonymous with building the world’s best wagons, is showing no signs of slowing down on the long roof front.
// We bettered the Nissan X-Trail’s claimed fuel economy figure by 37% (and others didn’t)
To mark the shortest day of the year (June 21 in case you didn’t know), we joined a Nissan New Zealand challenge to get the best possible fuel economy from one of its vehicles on a real-world route.
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.
INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS
// A Driverless Xiaomi Electric SUV Just Lapped The Ring. We Have Questions
A 10-minute Nurburgring lap time isn’t impressive. The fact that there is nobody in the driver’s seat is what makes this unique.
ONE LINERS
- Mitsubishi won’t build its own EVs
- Eagers’ Karmo investment set to expand easyauto123 vehicle pipeline
- Harley-Davidson brings back United We Ride charity event for 2026
- Xpeng backs right-to-repair scheme
- JLR expands hybrid plans and targets North American growth
- Ram re-launches the 1500 TRX SRT with even more power
- Porsche gives Taycan wagon a Soho House makeover
SPONSORED BY PROFIT WOLF
// Increase Service Department profits
Service Tap helps workshops turn vehicle health checks into approved repair work. Capture faults using digital check sheets on mobile, tablet, or desktop, then support quotes with images and video.
Customers receive estimates by SMS and can authorise repairs easily through the app. Designed by technicians, service advisors, and parts advisors to suit real workshop workflows.
Email contact@profitwolf.co.nz to book a demo, or visit profitwolf.co.nz
OTHER STUFF
// NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group
Are you a member of the NZ Car Dealers Facebook Group? Join hundreds of your peers in the leading online community for New Zealand motor traders. Click here to join.
// Advertise in The Full Brief
Want to get your message in front of New Zealand’s motor trade? Email dan@thefullbrief.nz to find out more about advertising opportunities.