Author: Dan Angland

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Value of car imports slumps

Disruptions to the global supply chain have been cited as a key reason for the monthly drop and a rare November trade surplus. The value of cars and parts imported into New Zealand fell in November to $588m, a drop of $121m from the same month in 2019.

https://autofile.co.nz/value-of-car-imports-slumps-

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Extra shipping costs hit importers

Commerce Commission watching developments in the shipping industry as charges climb in the wake of health crisis. Congestion charges and increasing freight rates are causing headaches for importers, who fear shipping lines are profiteering from the Covid-19 pandemic.

https://autofile.co.nz/extra-shipping-costs-hit-importers-

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Japan eyes rapid growth

Economy appears on course for a rebound in 2021, according to the latest government predictions. Japan’s economy looks set to grow at its fastest rate in two decades thanks to a recently adopted stimulus package to help it recover from the impacts of Covid-19.

https://autofile.co.nz/japan-eyes-rapid-growth-

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Meet the Sabre, Mclaren’s New Hybrid-Free 614Kw Monster

It’s almost criminal these days for supercar and hypercar manufacturers to produce cars that don’t make use of some kind of electrification. Most do so in a mild capacity, acting as a torque filler, a high-efficiency around-town drive mode, or as a means of green-tinged marketing.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/meet-the-sabre-mclaren-s-new-hybrid-free-614kw-monster

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McLaren unveils the Sabre, its most extreme non-hybrid yet

A few wealthy fans of McLaren over in America will be having a very nice Christmas this year, as the British brand has just revealed its latest supercar in limited numbers, and is a USA exclusive.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/mclaren-unveils-the-sabre-its-most-extreme-non-hybrid-yet/

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FACELIFTED TIGUAN SUV CAN’T ARRIVE SOON ENOUGH

Volkswagen Passenger Cars New Zealand says the early 2021 arrival of the facelifted Tiguan in March and April is a great win for both its dealers and customers.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/facelifted-tiguan-suv-cant-arrive-soon-enough

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FORD ADDING MORE X FACTOR TO BEST-SELLING RANGER

Ford New Zealand is adding yet more core and limited edition models to its best-selling Ranger Ute line-up to maintain its market-leading position in 2021. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/ford-adding-more-x-factor-to-best-selling-ranger

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VOLKSWAGEN MARKS 70 YEARS OF CKD CAR EXPORTS

In 1950 Volkswagen passenger cars exported its first shipment of completely knocked down (CKD) kits of the infamous Beetle to Ireland for local assembly.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/volkswagen-marks-70-years-of-ckd-car-exports

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PORTS OF AUCKLAND RESPONDS TO UNION CLAIMS

Ports of Auckland spokesperson Matt Ball says claims by the Maritime Union leadership are entirely false and malicious, and are based on their ideological opposition to automation, not facts.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/ports-of-auckland-responds-to-union-claims

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UNION CLAIMS PORT IS TURNING DOWN SKILLED WORKERS

The Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) says skilled New Zealand workers are being turned down for jobs at the Ports of Auckland.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/union-claims-port-is-turning-down-skilled-workers

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KIA E-NIRO FOR AUSTRALIA MID-2021?

Kia expects to have its first electric car, the e-Niro, in Australia by mid-2021, joining a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Sorento to be introduced earlier. 

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/kia-e-niro-for-australia-mid-2021/

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NISSAN FIGHTS COVID WITH FREE THERMAL IMAGING TECH

Nissan is supporting the fight against COVID-19 by providing licenses free for thermal imaging sensor technology developed by the company which is aimed at autonomous vehicles (AVs).

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/nissan-fights-covid-with-free-thermal-imaging-tech/

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AV ADVANCES STEP UP

Further development of autonomous vehicles (AV) is included under an extended collaboration between two key associated product firms.

https://evsandbeyond.co.nz/av-advances-step-up/

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PORT BATTLES FREIGHT BACKLOG

Recruitment drive aims to help address high level of demand.

https://autofile.co.nz/port-battles-freight-backlog-

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ELECTRICITY PROFITS ‘REASONABLE’

Report highlights electricity companies’ financial performance and service quality.

https://autofile.co.nz/electricity-profits-reasonable-

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REGULATORY OVERSIGHT TIGHTENS

Agency sets five-year terms for new inspection organisations.

https://autofile.co.nz/regulatory-oversight-tightened-

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TUNING FIRM MAKES BMW’S MOST AGRO SUV EVEN SCARIER

BMW’s big-grilled X7 three-row SUV has been somewhat forgotten in the brand’s fashion stakes, following the … uhh … divisive 4 Series, M3, M4, and iX that have come in the time since.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/tuning-firm-makes-bmw-s-most-agro-suv-even-scarier

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NEW-LOOK VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN KIWI-BOUND FOR 2021

Volkswagen’s stealthily popular mid-size SUV, the Tiguan, is getting a facelift for 2021 — the German firm’s local arm confirming more details about the model earlier today.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/new-look-volkswagen-tiguan-kiwi-bound-for-2021

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TOYOTA REVEALS STUNNING GR SUPRA ‘CONVERTIBLE’ SPORT TOP

What’s perhaps a little surprising about Toyota’s still somewhat fresh-to-market GR Supra is that we haven’t seen many different variants be added to the mix.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/toyota-reveals-stunning-gr-supra-convertible-sport-top

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VW GOLF GTI PRICING CONFIRMED? NZ MK8 DETAILS UNVEILED

As the year winds down to a close, attention turns to the interesting new metal that’s coming in 2021. And, at the compact end of the scale is the eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/vw-golf-gti-pricing-confirmed-nz-mk8-details-unveiled

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THE QUEST TO REPLICATE TESLA’S SUCCESS KEEPS EV MANIA ALIVE

Tesla has thrilled some investors and jarred others by soaring to a valuation of as much as US$649 billion, more than what the world’s seven largest carmakers were collectively worth at the beginning of this year. 

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/300189292/the-quest-to-replicate-teslas-success-keeps-ev-mania-alive

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SHELBY’S PERSONAL COBRA IS GOING UNDER THE HAMMER

Carroll Shelby isn’t someone that needs an introduction, nor does the Cobra. Based around the British AC Ace with the old 2.0-litre Bristol straight-six swapped for a healthy Ford-built V8, the two-seater roadster quickly became synonymous with Shelby’s mechanical knowhow.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123785008/shelbys-personal-cobra-is-going-under-the-hammer

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WATCH: TOYOTA TAKES THE TOP OFF THE GR SUPRA IN THE NAME OF STYLE

While we’re yet to see any hint of a manual transmission coming to Toyota’s GR Supra, the Japanese brand is more than happy to take the roof off it for its second wave of SEMA360 concepts.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/watch-toyota-takes-the-top-off-the-gr-supra-in-the-name-of-style/

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Port battles freight backlog

Recruitment drive aims to help address the unexpected level of demand on the shipping supply chain. Ports of Auckland (POAL) is hiring more staff to help tackle delays for processing shipments coming in and out of the country.

https://autofile.co.nz/port-battles-freight-backlog-

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Tesla joins key share index

Shares suffer rare dip in a year that has seen the carmaker’s market value soar past its rivals. Tesla has hit a new milestone after making its debut on America’s S&P 500, which provides millions more investors with an opportunity to hold a stake in the electric car maker.

https://autofile.co.nz/tesla-joins-key-share-index-

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Support helps cap certification fee increase

Technical association welcomes funding boost from the NZTA as workload increases. An automotive group is looking forward to no longer “running on the smell of an oily rag” after securing financial support from the NZTA.

https://autofile.co.nz/support-limits-certification-fee-increase-

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Car reveal targets young buyers

Honda tweaks Civic to make it look bigger and deliver improved visibility for drivers. Honda has tuned into Twitch, a popular streaming and social media platform for video game players, to reveal a new version of its Civic compact car.

https://autofile.co.nz/car-reveal-targets-young-buyers-

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New Golf 8 Arriving In Dealerships in March 2021

Volkswagen New Zealand says the all-new Golf 8 and all-new Golf GTI will be arriving in New Zealand dealerships by March 2021. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/new-golf-8-arriving-in-dealerships-in-march-2021

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Five-Year Terms for New Vehicle Inspecting Organisations

From January 1, 2021 Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency will introduce defined appointment terms for all new warrant of fitness (WoF) and certificate of fitness (CoF) inspecting organisation (IO) applicants.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/five-year-terms-for-new-vehicle-inspecting-organisations

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Best-Selling E-Class Gets Update For 2021

Mercedes-Benz says the E-Class is the best-selling model series in the company’s history so for 2021 the sedan, coupe, cabriolet and Mercedes-AMG variants have all received cosmetic and technological updates.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/best-selling-e-class-gets-update-for-2021

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Toyota hit by spate of recalls

Marque spots potential problems in a mix of models. 

https://autofile.co.nz/toyota-hit-by-spate-of-recalls-

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Treasury tips more rapid economic recovery

Surplus set to arrive sooner than expected despite Covid uncertainty.

https://autofile.co.nz/treasury-tips-more-rapid-economic-recovery-

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Cartel policy set to change

Regulator seeks submissions as date for new criminal offence approaches.

https://autofile.co.nz/cartel-policy-set-to-change-

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Electric Cars are Overhyped, Says Toyota Boss

You’d think that the announcement of its first fully electric car might sway Toyota towards softening its often mixed stance on EVs, but that doesn’t appear to be the case based on comments made by the firm’s president, Akio Toyoda.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/electric-cars-are-overhyped-says-toyota-boss

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Ute Wars Continue: Ford Confirms Updated 2021 Ranger Wildtrak-X

After drafting the featured-packed Wildtrak-X grade of Ford Ranger earlier this year, Ford New Zealand has announced that the formerly sold-out model will be back for 2021 with a handful of changes.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/ute-wars-continue-ford-confirms-updated-2021-ranger-wildtrak-x

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Is Subaru Finally Making A BRZ Sti? Curious Test Mule Spotted

In recent years there’s been many ‘will they, won’t they’ moments in motoring, and one of the biggest has been the lack of a definitive high-performance flagship in either the Subaru BRZ or Toyota 86.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/is-subaru-finally-making-a-brz-sti-curious-test-mule-spotted

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VW warns chip shortage threatens car production worldwide

639034284 (White VW ID.3): Volkswagen has started building its ID.3 EV, but warns a semiconductor shortage may slow the company’s production process.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300189299/vw-warns-chip-shortage-threatens-car-production-worldwide

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Toyota’s CEO really doesn’t like the EV revolution

As Japan seemingly heads towards instigating a ban on the sale of combustion cars by the year 2035, the boss of the countries largest vehicle manufacturer isn’t happy.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/123771983/toyotas-ceo-really-doesnt-like-the-ev-revolution

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Toyota NZ recalls selected Yaris Hybrid and Yaris Cross models

A number of Yaris Hybrid and Yaris Cross SUV models have been recalled by Toyota New Zealand for two potential issues.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/toyota-nz-recalls-selected-yaris-hybrid-and-yaris-cross-models/

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Live the Mad Max dream with this epic Ford Falcon Interceptor

Over the last decade or so, prices of classic Australian muscle cars have been sky-rocketing with old two-door Ford Falcons and Holden Monaro models leading the charge. 

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/live-the-mad-max-dream-with-this-epic-ford-falcon-interceptor/

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Carroll Shelby’s very own 427 Cobra set to fetch a fortune

As one of the most replicated classic cars on the road, the Shelby Cobra is certainly iconic, with some genuine models fetching over $1 million when crossing the auction block in recent years. 

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/carroll-shelby-s-very-own-427-cobra-set-to-fetch-a-fortune/

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VIA Welcomes New NZTA Audit System

VIA is welcoming a new vehicle auditing system being implemented by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency. It includes unannounced random audits of compliance shops as well as WoF and CoF issuing organisations. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/via-welcomes-new-nzta-audit-system

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ALFA Upgrades Its Sporty Speedy SUVs

Alfa Romeo is offering two versions of its updated Stelvio high-performance SUV in New Zealand, the Veloce Carbon and the Quadrifoglio. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/alfa-upgrades-its-sporty-speedy-suvs

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Agency targets inspectors

Compliance shops, and WOF and COF providers, face unannounced audits.

https://autofile.co.nz/agency-targets-inspectors-

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Dodgy brakes and tyres on rise

Vehicle factors an increasing problem in our road toll.

https://autofile.co.nz/dodgy-brakes-and-tyres-on-rise-

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Marque backs emerging designers

Lexus NZ celebrates “imaginative solutions” from the next generation.

https://autofile.co.nz/marque-backs-emerging-designers-

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NZ shifts out of recession

Increased spending on cars plays vital part in economic turnaround.

https://autofile.co.nz/nz-shifts-out-of-recession-

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Hyundai Developing 2.3-Litre ‘Big Block’ For Next i30 N?

Hyundai’s recently updated i30 N hot hatch has barely hit the market, and it’s already being rumoured that the next generation of the popular performance car is in development — particularly in regards to powertrains.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hyundai-developing-2-3-litre-big-block-for-next-i30-n

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Scott Mclaughlin Edition Ford Mustang To Cost $149,500

Seemingly as a bit of a parting gift, Scott McLaughlin’s ‘SM17’ Ford Mustang got plenty of tongues wagging earlier this year. More power than a Shelby GT500, racier looks, and limited production numbers will do that.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/scott-mclaughlin-edition-ford-mustang-to-cost-149-500

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Special Scott McLaughlin Mustang priced

The special Mustang built as a send-off for Scott McLaughlin has been priced.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123762283/special-scott-mclaughlin-mustang-priced

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Toyota Yaris and Yaris Cross hit by two separate recalls

Even being the Top Car of 2020 can’t protect you from recalls, it seems.

Toyota has confirmed the new Yaris has been hit by two separate recalls, one affecting the hybrid system in relevant hatchback and Cross cars, the other relating to the rear centre seatbelts of some Yaris Cross models.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123755097/toyota-yaris-and-yaris-cross-hit-by-two-separate-recalls

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Volkswagen wants to have solid-state batteries on the road by 2024

Volkswagen is hoping to jump to the front of the EV arms race with its latest investment, which could allow it to put solid-state batteries on the road by 2024.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/123751731/volkswagen-wants-to-have-solidstate-batteries-on-the-road-by-2024

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GREEN SPECIAL: Five things we learned about green motoring in 2020

We’re close to the end of the year and therefore wrapping up our first series of Green articles in partnership with Audi.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/green-special-five-things-we-learned-about-green-motoring-in-2020/

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NZ pricing revealed for Ford’s highly-anticipated SM17 Mustang

While Shelby might rule the roost when it comes to fast Mustangs over in America, Herrod has claimed that title with the burly SM17, dedicated to Scott McLaughlin’s success in Australia’s Supercars series.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/nz-pricing-revealed-for-ford-s-highly-anticipated-sm17-mustang/

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Prices Still Inching up in Japan

There was subdued good news during the month of November in the automotive industry, with new vehicle sales inching above October volumes to reach 411,601, a total that includes trucks, buses, Kei-class vehicles and light commercials.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/prices-still-inching-up-in-japan

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Autosure’s New National Claims Manager – Wayne Hynes

An important part of what we do here at Autosure is provide a high level of aftersales support to our agent’s customers. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/autosures-new-national-claims-manager-wayne-hynes

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Provident Insurance North Island Golf Classic 2020

The Provident Insurance Annual North Island Golf Classic was held at the Ngaruawahia Golf Club in Hamilton on Thursday 26th November. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/provident-insurance-north-island-golf-classic-2020

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Video: ANCAP Rates Commercial Van Segment For First Time

The Australasian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP) has reviewed the active safety performance of a range of commercial vans for the first time in the segment with the Toyota Hiace and Ford Transit coming out on top.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/video-ancap-rates-commercial-van-segment-for-first-time

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February Debut for New Outback

Subaru’s next generation Outback all-wheel drive SUV will arrive in New Zealand next February. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/february-debut-for-new-outback

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Consumers are Resilient and Adaaptive Says Ford Trends Report

The 9th annual Looking Further with Ford Trends Report focuses on global trends each year to gain insight into shifting consumer behaviours and what comes next in terms of connecting with them.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/consumers-are-resilient-and-adaptive-says-ford-trends-report

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Kia Facelifts Stinger for 2021 Model Year

Kia has given its flagship Stinger sedan a styling refresh, higher-quality interior trim and updates to the infotainment system for the 2021 model year. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/kia-facelifts-stinger-for-2021-model-year

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Commercial vans in safety spotlight

Only two of 15 vans score a gold rating in ANCAP tests. PLUS – video

https://autofile.co.nz/commercial-vans-in-safety-spotlight-

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MTA snaps up IT companies

Bosses welcome change of ownership for SAM and SAS operations.

https://autofile.co.nz/mta-snaps-up-it-companies-

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Stinger gets freshen up for 2021

Kia upgrades model to emphasise its GT character and add a bit of luxury.

https://autofile.co.nz/stinger-gets-freshen-up-for-2021-

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Car imports drive current account into deficit

Figure narrows on an annual basis because of impact of Covid-19.

https://autofile.co.nz/car-imports-drive-current-account-into-deficit-

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EV subscription service expanding

Power company commits to growing scheme following two-year pilot.

https://autofile.co.nz/ev-subscription-service-expanding-

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Nissan’s quiet EV project isn’t a car but is saving lives

Nissan’s Blue Switch project allows its electric vehicles to act as portable power stations for emergency response teams.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/123738173/nissans-quiet-ev-project-isnt-a-car-but-is-saving-lives

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Van safety put to the test, the results are rough

ANCAP, the body responsible for testing the safety of new vehicles in Australia and New Zealand, has broadened its subjects to include commercial vans for the first time. The results aren’t pretty.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123736752/van-safety-put-to-the-test-the-results-are-rough

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Vietnam’s Vinfast working on a double-cab ute

Vietnamese start-up Vinfast has released some preliminary sketches of its upcoming models, one of which is to be a double-cab ute.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123722877/vietnams-vinfast-working-on-a-doublecab-ute

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Lamborghini’s new SC20 is a wild speedster money can’t buy

For years now, roadster versions of supercars have been popular due to the laid back look, but how do you make a supercar look even more chill? Take off the windscreen as well as the roof, obviously. 

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/lamborghini-s-new-sc20-is-a-wild-speedster-money-can-t-buy/

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Alfa Romeo Stelvio Lands in NZ, Gets Big Price Tweak

Just a few short years after it first debuted, Alfa Romeo has issued a mild mid-life refresh for its Stelvio SUV. It’s now landed in New Zealand, bringing with it new features and a heavily revised line-up.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/alfa-romeo-stelvio-lands-in-nz-gets-big-price-tweak

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Would You Pay $70,000 for a Vintage Toyota Hilux?

It’s common knowledge that Toyota Hilux utes have well above average resale value compared to their peers. But, what we’re now seeing in the market is older models that have either been well preserved or restored to factory fresh condition selling for big money.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/would-you-pay-70-000-for-a-vintage-toyota-hilux

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New Nissan Concept Imagines What Supercars Look Like In 2050

It’s probably safe to say that the future of the car is well and truly up in the air. And this is especially true of enthusiast-orientated vehicles like hot hatches, sports sedans, and of course supercars.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/new-nissan-concept-imagines-what-supercars-look-like-in-2050

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NZ Pricing Revealed For More Powerful 2021 Kia Stinger

Kia New Zealand has finally confirmed pricing and range for its updated MY2021 Stinger, which recently arrived at dealerships around the country.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/nz-pricing-revealed-for-more-powerful-2021-kia-stinger

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Alfa Romeo Produces Limited Edition 4c Spider for US Market

Inspired by the 1967 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale mid-engine sports car, the Italian manufacturer will produce 33 units of a limited edition 4C Spider solely for the North American market.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/alfa-romeo-produces-limited-edition-4c-spider-for-us-market

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Sydney Subaru Dealer Sells 10,000th WRX STI

Trivett Subaru in Parramatta, Sydney, NSW has sold the 10,000th WRX STI in Australia to Bradley McManus of Clandulla, NSW. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/sydney-subaru-dealer-sells-10000th-wrx-sti

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Maserati Targeting Growth with New Cambodian Dealership

Maserati has opened a new dealership in Phnomh Penh, Cambodia as it targets more sales in the Asia Pacific region by chasing the growing wealth of the population. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/maserati-targeting-growth-with-new-cambodian-dealership

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MTA Buys SAM And SAS Automotive IT Businesses

The Motor Trade Association (MTA) has purchased the SAM and SAS automotive IT businesses effective immediately.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mta-buys-sam-and-sas-automotive-it-businesses

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Clean car standard coming soon

Minister of Transport keen to make headway in fight against pollution.

https://autofile.co.nz/clean-car-standard-coming-soon-

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Ducati and Lamborghini not for sale, it turns out

A footnote in a recent release about Volkswagen Group board reorganisations has confirmed that Lamborghini and Ducati are not for sale just yet.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123721900/ducati-and-lamborghini-not-for-sale-it-turns-out

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Amazon’s Zoox unveils robotaxi for future ride-hailing service

Zoox Inc., the self-driving start-up owned by Amazon.com Inc., has unveiled a fully autonomous electric vehicle with no steering wheel that can drive day and night on a single charge.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/300184596/amazons-zoox-unveils-robotaxi-for-future-ridehailing-service

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Hennessey’s new $3 million hypercar might be the world’s fastest

You might not have heard of this supercar before but it’ll be one of the most insane cars on the road. Hennessey has revealed the production version of its two-seat Venom F5 and the performance numbers are truly wild.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/hennessey-s-new-3-million-hypercar-might-be-the-world-s-fastest/

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Bugatti’s $25 million La Voiture Noire might be the world’s best Christmas present

Due to the sheer size and cost of a supercar, they don’t make for very good Christmas presents to put underneath the tree, but Bugatti has found a way around this with the La Voiture Noire. 

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/bugatti-s-25-million-la-voiture-noire-might-be-the-world-s-best-christmas-present/

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Tower Insurance app gives excess discounts for good driving

Tower Insurance has just released a smartphone app designed to make us better drivers. Called GoCarma, it’s available for both Apple and Android and hooks up to a car’s Bluetooth system to assess and rate each 3km or longer drive.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/tower-insurance-app-gives-excess-discounts-for-good-driving/

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Rivian announces adventure charging network for its electric utes

Electric car start-up Rivian is planning to boldly go where no other zero-emission maker has before. The American brand is in the advanced stages of bringing its R1T and R1S electric ute and SUV to market, with the first examples expected to be delivered by mid-2021.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/rivian-announces-adventure-charging-network-for-its-electric-utes/

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NZ PRICING REVEALED FOR MORE POWERFUL 2021 KIA STINGER

Kia New Zealand has finally confirmed pricing and range for its updated MY2021 Stinger, which recently arrived at dealerships around the country.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/nz-pricing-revealed-for-more-powerful-2021-kia-stinger

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500KM/H MISSILE: HENNESSEY REVEALS 1817HP PRODUCTION VENOM F5

For all of Hennessey’s faults as a tuning firm, one has to applaud its commitment to its Venom hypercar and the pursuit of jaw-dropping, eye-raising, record-book-writing numbers. And its production version of the Venom F5 is testament to all of the above.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/500km-h-missile-hennessey-reveals-1817hp-production-venom-f5

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VW ANNOUNCES IT WILL KEEP LAMBORGHINI, BUT NO WORD ON BUGATTI

More pieces of Volkswagen Group’s shuffling brand puzzle are starting to fall into place, with the news that the firm is set to hang on to Lamborghini and Ducati.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/vw-announces-it-will-keep-lamborghini-but-no-word-on-bugatti

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Via Issues ‘Global Warranty’ Warning

If a used car buyer makes a warranty claim on a vehicle not covered by a “global/worldwide” warranty, New Zealand consumer law requires the importer to honour the provisions of the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) at the importer’s expense, the VIA warns.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/via-issues-global-warranty-warning

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Mercedes EQ ‘Fireworks’ Start

Mercedes-Benz is targeting leadership in electric drives and vehicle software with electrification of the entire product portfolio a key element of the strategic focus “Ambition 2039”. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mercedes-eq-fireworks-start

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High-Performance Cupra Expands In NZ

Spanish high-performance car brand Cupra, part of the Volkswagen Group and an offshoot of SEAT, is expanding its presence in New Zealand with a range of new models.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/high-performance-cupra-expands-in-nz

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Advice for dealers on ‘global’ warranties

Law puts onus on importers for warranty claims on cars from the UK.

https://autofile.co.nz/advice-for-dealers-on-global-warranties-

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Spending on cars climbs $11m

November saw the fifth biggest monthly spend of the past two years.

https://autofile.co.nz/spending-on-cars-climbs-11m-

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Classic Ford emerges as top lot

Two vehicles smash $200,000 barrier as collection goes under the hammer.

https://autofile.co.nz/classic-ford-emerges-as-top-lot-

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Subaru’s first electric SUV to debut in Europe next year

Subaru has confirmed its first electric vehicle, a mid-sized SUV, will launch in the first half of 2021.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/123709262/subarus-first-electric-suv-to-debut-in-europe-next-year

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New Zealand to get entire Cupra range next year

Seat New Zealand has confirmed that it will offer the entire Cupra range here, starting next year.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123706930/new-zealand-to-get-entire-cupra-range-next-year

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Subaru officially confirms next-generation WRX STI

Subaru Australia has let the cat out of the bag during celebrations of delivering 10,000 WRX STIs. There will indeed be a new WRX STI and it should be quite spicy.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123699640/subaru-officially-confirms-nextgeneration-wrx-sti

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33 Stradale Tributo: Alfa Romeo sends off the 4C with a tribute to an icon

As far as Italian sports cars go, Alfa Romeo’s 4C was sometimes overlooked in favour of other options from more prominent brands, but it earned a reputation for being a hardcore little performer. 

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/33-stradale-tributo-alfa-romeo-sends-off-the-4c-with-a-tribute-to-an-icon/

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Controversial Aussie lawyer loses ‘x-rated’ plates in legal battle

Lamborghini-driving Sydney lawyer Peter Lavac has vowed never to back down to “fat cat bullies” after a court bid to try and keep his controversial ‘LGOPNR’ number plates failed on Monday.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/controversial-aussie-lawyer-loses-x-rated-plates-in-legal-battle/

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NEW LADA NIVA REVEALED IN LEAKS, LOOKS LIKE A SAD TOYOTA RAV4

While Lada isn’t exactly the first name that comes to mind when one thinks of great cars (or even good cars), the Russian firm has been on a bit of a streak lately.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/new-lada-niva-revealed-in-leaks-looks-like-a-sad-toyota-rav4

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HOT EURO BRAND SET FOR GRAND KIWI ARRIVAL IN 2021

We’ve featured Cupras before in NZ Autocar (namely the fabulous Cupra Ateca), but up to this point the name has felt more like a casual excursion for Seat rather than the fully blown satellite off-shoot sub-brand it’s meant to be.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/hot-euro-brand-set-for-grand-kiwi-arrival-in-2021

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LEXUS’ NEW BMW FIGHTER LANDS IN NEW ZEALAND

The new Lexus IS has been spotted on Kiwi shores, signalling that its arrival to showrooms around the country is imminent.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/lexus-new-bmw-fighter-lands-in-new-zealand

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LEGEND LIVES ON: SUBARU CONFIRMS IT WILL KEEP MAKING THE WRX STI

In this time of change and motoring uncertainty, it’s nice to know that some familiar names aren’t about to disappear any time soon.

https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/legend-lives-on-subaru-confirms-it-will-keep-making-the-wrx-sti

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Diversification wins for radio host / restauranteur / dealer

They say you can’t keep a good man down and that could well apply to Auckland car dealer Pete Marsden considering the horrible 2020 he and his businesses have had.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/diversification-wins-for-radio-host-restauranteur-dealer

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Lead, test drive and sales by source November 2020 (vs October 2020)

November was an interesting month. Overall Test Drives and Sales were down on October levels and it’s possible we would have seen the same with Leads but for a large push of leads from OEM’s to dealers late in the month.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/lead-test-drive-and-sales-by-source-november-2020-vs-october-2020

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New Sport opens the Gladiator range

Jeep has added a range-opening Sport version to its Gladiator ute line-up in New Zealand.  The $79,990 Sport joins the $89.990 Overland and $92,990 Rubicon in the Gladiator range.

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/new-sport-opens-the-gladiator-range

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Crossroads or brick wall

The automotive industry appears to be at a crossroads, or could it be a brick wall. Rumours circulating within the trade have indicated to AutoTalk that the governing are set to make the Clean Car Standard (CCS) happen with some haste…

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/crossroads-or-brick-wall-2

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Dealer fined for consumer guarantees breaches

Auckland car and truck wrecker BNZ JP Euro Auto Parts Limited has been fined $67,500 for breaching the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (CGA) and for failing to provide Consumer Information Notices (CINs). 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/dealer-fined-for-consumer-guarantees-breaches

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MG’s Anthony Maclean launches automotive consultancy

SAIC Motor’s MG country manager NZ, Anthony MacLean, is set to depart the growing Chinese brand to launch his own automotive consultancy. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/mgs-anthony-mclean-launches-automotive-consultancy

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Striking orange accents for X Sport

Orange bodywork highlights set the new Forester X Sport apart from other models in the Subaru SUV model’s 2021 line-up. 

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/striking-orange-accents-for-x-sport

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Ferrari faces new leadership crisis as CEO abruptly resigns

Ferrari is facing its second leadership crisis in as many years after Chief Executive Officer Louis Camilleri abruptly resigned, complicating the Italian supercar maker’s transition towards electric mobility.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300183336/ferrari-faces-new-leadership-crisis-as-ceo-abruptly-resigns

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Honda Europe to electrify everything by 2023

Honda’s European arm has pledged to electrify its entire line-up in some form or another by 2023 as part of its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/123696023/honda-europe-to-electrify-everything-by-2023

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Insurer’s driving app a form of ‘surveillance’ – law professor

Questions are being raised about a new mobile app which tracks, records and scores how well people drive.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/300182991/insurers-driving-app-a-form-of-surveillance–law-professor

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Five Things: overvalued second hand cars

We all know how tempting it is to snap up a potential “future classic” on the second-hand market for dirt cheap but no one really knows if a car is going to skyrocket in value.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123626467/five-things-overvalued-second-hand-cars

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The 10 cars to consider investing in next year

From Bentley to BMW, Polestar to Porsche, new-car sales have slumped in 2020. Sales of classic cars, on the other hand, have remained positively stable.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300179516/the-10-cars-to-consider-investing-in-next-year

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Watch: Crashed Chevrolet Corvette repaired with ramen noodles

Tik Tok has brought the world numerous questionable trends, but easily the worst thing that it brought to the automotive world was those videos where damaged vehicle panels are repaired with noodles.

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/watch-crashed-chevrolet-corvette-repaired-with-ramen-noodles/

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This $6.7 million McLaren Speedtail is a cheap alternative to an F1

Known by many as the world’s best supercar, the McLaren F1 holds a special place in many enthusiast’s hearts, but insane appreciation means that the majority will never get the chance to own one. 

https://www.driven.co.nz/news/this-6-7-million-mclaren-speedtail-is-a-cheap-alternative-to-an-f1/

Electric Vehicles Charge to Second Nzcoty Win

The all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQC has won the prestigious 2020 New Zealand Car of the Year – the second year running for an electric vehicle.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/electric-vehicles-charge-to-second-nzcoty-win

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Video Teases Hyundai’s EV Future

Hyundai has released a teaser video for the upcoming Ioniq 5, the first dedicated EV in the new Ioniq brand that it will launch early next year.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/video-teases-hyundais-ev-future

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Global Logistics Issues Delay Toyota Deliveries

Although orders for new Toyota vehicles are growing in New Zealand due to consumer buying confidence and new model launches, delivery times are being delayed by a range of supply issues overseas.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/global-logistics-issues-delay-toyota-deliveries

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Major Auction of Collectors’ Cars

1964 Mercedes-Benz 230SL is in Webb’s auction this Sunday. An auction of collectors’ cars, motorcycles and automobilia in Auckland this Sunday is expected to fetch more than $3.5m.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/major-auction-of-collectors-cars

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Teaser Peek at New Outlander

Mitsubishi has published a teaser image of its next-generation Outlander SUV which is expected to be on sale here in the first half of next year. It will arrive in the USA, Canada and Puerto Rico in February 2021, and “follow soon-after in other international markets,” Mitsubishi says.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/teaser-peek-at-new-outlander

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Large SUVs gain top marks for safety

Experts praise carmakers for meeting increasing standards. PLUS – videos
https://autofile.co.nz/categories/national/11

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Lamborghini and Bugatti boss wants the combustion engine around “as long as possible”

The head of Lamborghini and Bugatti has gone on the record in saying he wants the internal combustion engine to stick around “as long as possible.”
https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123673639/lamborghini-and-bugatti-boss-wants-the-combustion-engine-around-as-long-as-possible

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Mitsubishi reportedly playing with four-motor plug-in hybrid

Mitsubishi is working on high-performance plug-in hybrid powertrains, featuring as many as four electric motors paired with a combustion engine.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/123667878/mitsubishi-reportedly-playing-with-fourmotor-plugin-hybrid

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All-electric 2021 GMC Hummer sells out in 10 minutes despite $160K price

Want a 2021 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1? Get in line. The all-electric pickup sold out in 10 minutes despite its price tag that tops US$100,000, just as the automaker is preparing to start winter testing of it, said Duncan Aldred, GMC vice president.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/evs/300180769/allelectric-2021-gmc-hummer-sells-out-in-10-minutes-despite-160k-price

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GREEN SPECIAL: Look how far we’ve come with fuel economy

We’re always talking about new technology improving the environmental credentials of the vehicle fleet, but it’s easy to forget (and appreciate) just how far we’ve come in improving existing tech. And how much of that work is continuing.
https://www.driven.co.nz/news/green-special-look-how-far-we-ve-come-with-fuel-economy/

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Silent sedan: VW keeps the faith in four-doors with electric ID.6

Despite the automotive world shifting its focus towards high-riding SUVs, a handful of brands are attempting to keep the sedan dream alive and are coming out with new models.
https://www.driven.co.nz/news/silent-sedan-vw-keeps-the-faith-in-four-doors-with-electric-id-6/

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Toyota looks to take on Tesla with ‘game-changing’ new electric SUV

Toyota is preparing to show off its all-new SUV next year, which will be unlike anything the brand has built before.
https://www.driven.co.nz/news/toyota-looks-to-take-on-tesla-with-game-changing-new-electric-suv/

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A Bulletproof Ford Ranger? Mad New Utes Revealed

Ford’s Ranger line-up has something for just about everyone. Entry level models offer reasonable value, mid-spec models have been tarted up to the point of being solid family car replacements, and the Raptor jumps over stuff — a sure-fire free pass.
https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/a-bulletproof-ford-ranger-mad-new-utes-revealed

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Crossroads or brick wall?

The automotive industry appears to be at a crossroads, or could it be a brick wall. Rumours circulating within the trade have indicated to AutoTalk that the governing are set to make the Clean Car Standard (CCS) happen with some haste, and while our more reliable sources suggest that is […]

https://autotalk.co.nz/news/crossroads-or-brick-wall

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Political will moving fast on emissions

Discussion and debate is moving into a higher gear on the issue of vehicle CO2 emissions, with the government clearly signalling its intentions to move forward with carbon-reducing initiatives.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/political-will-moving-fast-on-emissions

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NZ Car of the Year contenders hit TV tonight

The top ten cars launched in New Zealand over the last year – according to the New Zealand Motoring Writers’ Guild – will be put through their paces tonight.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/nz-car-of-the-year-contenders-hit-tv-tonight

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Levorg is Japan’s 2020 car of year

Subaru’s all-new Subaru Levorg has been named the 2020-2021 Japanese Car of the Year.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/levorg-is-japans-2020-car-of-year

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Ineos will build Grenadier in France

Ineos Automotive will build its Land Rover Defender-inspired Grenadier 4×4 at Mercedes-Benz’s former state-of-the-art factory at Hambach in France from late 2021.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/ineos-will-build-grenadier-in-france

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UDC leaves ANZ farewell gift

Finance company UDC paid its former owners UDC a tasty $135 million dividend in the final stages of its sale to the Japanese Shinsei Bank
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/udc-leaves-anz-farewell-gift

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Unique chance to buy heritage F-type

Jaguar is marking the E-Type sports car’s 60th birthday in 2021 with a limited-edition V8 Supercharged F- Type Heritage 60th Anniversary Edition – but only one will come to New Zealand.
https://autotalk.co.nz/news/unique-chance-to-buy-heritage-f-type

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Tesla seeks to sell US$5B in stock as Musk moves to Texas

Tesla said Tuesday it is looking to raise up to US$5 billion in capital through a stock offering. The announcement came on the same day CEO Elon Musk said he has moved his home to Texas from California.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/300179528/tesla-seeks-to-sell-us5b-in-stock-as-musk-moves-to-texas

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Hybrid sales enjoy surge

The uptake of low-emissions vehicles was on the rise last month.
https://autofile.co.nz/hybrid-sales-enjoy-surge-

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Why this $2 million Lamborghini may end up in the crusher

With great power comes great responsibility, especially when we’re talking about a Lamborghini Aventador SVJ that makes somewhere in the region of 570kW from its mid-mounted V12.
https://www.driven.co.nz/news/why-this-2-million-lamborghini-may-end-up-in-the-crusher/

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Holden to take its coolest road-going vehicles on a final tour of Australia

As the curtain closes on Australia’s great car brand, Holden is going for one last hoorah by taking over 80 vehicles on a tour of Australia, visiting numerous museums along the way.
https://www.driven.co.nz/news/holden-to-take-its-coolest-road-going-vehicles-on-a-final-tour-of-australia/

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Will Solid-State Batteries be an Electric Car Gamechanger?

There’s a somewhat logical answer to the question of how car-makers can improve the range of their EVs, and that’s through the use of solid-state batteries.
https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/will-solid-state-batteries-be-an-electric-car-gamechanger

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Land Rover, Kia, Audi Impress in Latest Crash Testing

Crash testing agency Euro NCAP has released its latest batch of scoring for a bunch of recently tested vehicles.
https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/watch-land-rover-kia-audi-impress-in-latest-crash-testing

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Is this the New Mitsubishi Outlander? Spy Shots Reveal New Suv

Mitsubishi’s thoroughly aged Outlander is a case study in how, sometimes, it makes sense to not live on the cutting edge. It’s been with us in its current form for five years, which was a facelift of a design that’s been kicking around for eight years. But, it’s a nameplate that makes no apologies for not being the flashest SUV in town.
https://www.autocar.co.nz/autocar-news-app/is-this-the-new-mitsubishi-outlander-spy-shots-reveal-new-suv