New Zealand's automotive landscape is undergoing a quiet revolution, with a steady stream of new car brands arriving on our shores. This trend is particularly intriguing, as it challenges the dominance of traditional automotive powers and introduces a fresh wave of innovation. Among the latest additions are Forthing, Denza, BAIC, GAC, Dongfeng, XPeng, Geely, Zeekr, and Farizon, each bringing unique features and stories to the market. In this article, I'll delve into the details of these brands, exploring their origins, offerings, and the impact they're having on the local automotive scene.
Forthing: A Chinese Brand with a Unique Identity
Forthing, a division of Dongfeng, has made its mark in New Zealand with the launch of the Taikon SUV. This model is available in both BEV and super hybrid versions, offering a range of options for consumers. The Taikon is a medium-sized SUV, with prices starting at $39,990 for the super hybrid and $42,990 for the pure-electric variant. What makes Forthing particularly interesting is its history. The brand established its unique identity in 2016 with the launch of the T5 Evo SUV, showcasing a bespoke lion emblem. This move set the stage for a brand renewal conference in 2021, further solidifying its distinct direction.
Denza: Luxury and Innovation from BYD
Denza, BYD's luxury brand, has made its standalone debut in New Zealand with the B5 and B8 SUVs, as well as the D9 people mover. These models range from $88,990 to $117,900, offering a premium experience. Denza's journey began in 2001 as a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz, with its first China-only model launched in 2014. The recent restructuring saw BYD take over Mercedes-Benz's shareholding, leading to the brand's standalone presence in New Zealand. The B5 and B8 SUVs share their underpinnings and dual-motor plug-in hybrid technology with the BYD Shark 6 ute, showcasing Denza's commitment to innovation.
BAIC: A State-Owned Brand with a Retro Twist
BAIC, the state-owned automobile maker from China, has entered the New Zealand market with a focus on ICE and hybrid vehicles. The brand's star attraction is the retro-style B30 SUV, which plays up on BAIC's 4x4 history. Established in 1984 with a joint venture with Jeep, BAIC has a rich heritage in off-road vehicles. The B30 comes in 2WD or AWD, with conventional combustion engines or hybrid powertrains. Prices range from $39,990 to $49,990, with a $3000 launch special offer available until June.
GAC: A State-Owned Brand with Diverse Offerings
GAC, the fifth-largest carmaker in China, has made its debut in New Zealand with the Emzoom SUV, Aion SUV, and M8 people mover. The Emzoom, priced at $31,990, is powered by a conventional combustion engine. The Aion V medium-SUV, with a price tag of $49,990 to $51,990, is a pure-electric model. GAC claims the M8 as NZ's first PHEV people mover, priced from $85,990 to $89,990. The brand's diverse offerings reflect its sub-brands, including Aion, Hycan, Hyptec, and Trumpchi.
Dongfeng: A State-Owned Brand with a Range of EVs
Dongfeng, one of the 'big four' state-owned carmakers, has introduced the Box hatchback, Vigo SUV, and 007 sedan to the New Zealand market. The Box, initially launched with a less-than-ideal safety specification, has been updated with an increased airbag count and a relaunch price of $29,990 until the end of May. The Vigo compact-SUV, priced at $39,990, boasts distinctive styling and clever cabin features. The flagship of the lineup is the 007, a low-slung fastback/sedan, available in two models with prices ranging from $54,990 to $59,990.
XPeng: AI-Assisted Cars and Flying Cars
XPeng, founded by former GAC executives, has entered the New Zealand market with the G6 SUV. The G6 comes in standard or long range, RWD or AWD, with long range Performance models boasting 358kW and a 0-100km/h time of 4.13 seconds. Prices range from $59,990 to $75,490. XPeng's interests extend beyond cars, with a focus on AI-assisted vehicles and even flying cars, making it a brand to watch in the future.
Geely: A Sprawling Automotive Giant
Geely, now a sprawling automotive giant, has two brands in New Zealand: EX5 EV and Starray EM-i SUVs, along with the Riddara ute. The EX5, priced from $45,990 to $56,990, is an EV, while the Starray EM-i, priced from $45,990 to $49,490, uses a 'super hybrid' plug-in powertrain. The Riddara RD6 Pro, a dual-cab ute with pure-electric power, is priced at $69,990. Geely's global reach, including ownership of Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus, adds a layer of complexity to its Kiwi business story.
Zeekr: Geely's Luxury-EV Brand
Zeekr, Geely's luxury-EV brand, has made its debut in New Zealand with the X and 7X SUVs, as well as the 009 luxury people mover. The 7X, priced from $69,990 to $94,990, features a 'Golden Battery' for high-speed charging. The smaller X, priced from $59,990 to $69,990, shares technology with the Volvo EX30. The 009, priced from $157,990 to $162,990, offers a lounge-like rear compartment, showcasing Zeekr's commitment to luxury and innovation.
Farizon: Pure-Electric Commercial Vehicles
Farizon, a Geely subsidiary, has introduced the V7E and SV vans to the New Zealand market. The V7E, priced from $55,990, offers a 67kWh battery with a 100kW motor and up to 329km range (WLTP). The SV, with two battery sizes and three different lengths, is priced from $74,990 to $89,990. Farizon's focus on pure-electric commercial vehicles adds a new dimension to the automotive landscape.
In conclusion, the arrival of these new car brands in New Zealand is a testament to the evolving nature of the automotive industry. From Chinese state-owned brands to Geely's sprawling empire, each brings a unique story and set of offerings. As these brands continue to establish themselves, they challenge the status quo and offer consumers a fresh range of choices. The future of the automotive market in New Zealand looks bright, with innovation and diversity at the forefront.
