Armstrong inks Dongfeng deal
A new player is joining New Zealand’s automotive landscape, promising to “challenge convention” and leverage its global scale and technologies to help consumers switch into advanced zero and low-emissions models at more affordable prices.
Dongfeng has appointed Armstrong’s as its exclusive distributor for this country under Armstrong’s Distribution Ltd (ADL).
“We’re incredibly excited to bring Dongfeng to New Zealand,” says Rick Armstrong, pictured above, Armstrong’s founder and executive director.
“These vehicles combine world-class engineering with cutting-edge technology at a price point that makes premium quality more accessible. We’re all about removing barriers and delivering vehicles that are a dream to drive.”
Dongfeng’s models have been praised internationally for their styling, intelligent features and value.
Set to launch here in 2025’s final quarter, the marque’s initial line-up will include three EVs – the Box, Vigo and 007.
While new to New Zealand, Dongfeng is one of the “big four” Chinese carmakers with 42 factories worldwide – many of which are joint ventures with international OEMs. Global sales in 2024 were more than 2.5 million across 100 countries.
Established 56 years ago, the marque prides itself on advancing technology and innovation, and plans to invest more than US$14 billion (about NZ$24b) in research and development over the next three years. It focuses on new-energy vehicles, which will form a cornerstone of brand expansion.
“We are honoured to partner with Armstrong’s to bring Dongfeng products to New Zealand,” says Zhu Xun, pictured below, general manager of Dongfeng’s south-east Asia marketing department for passenger-vehicle sales.
“As one of the largest automotive groups in New Zealand, Armstrong’s was a natural choice. We look forward to long and successful co-operation. New Zealand is very important for us as we expand to more right-hand-drive overseas markets.”
Simon Rutherford, CEO of ADL, adds: “Our goal is to challenge and exceed expectations, and we’re confident Dongfeng offers qualities and attributes that motorists demand.
“It’s a future-focused and progressive marque which fulfils what Kiwis have been dreaming about driving – attractive, attainable vehicles designed to revolutionise the way New Zealanders interact with and experience next-generation mobility.”
More information about Dongfeng and its new-model portfolio will be released in coming weeks. The first three retail stores will be in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch with extra branches to be added throughout the country.
