December issue out now

The used-imports sector is calling for changes to rules limiting dealers’ access to stock in Japan. Current emissions restrictions risk making our fleet older, less safe and more polluting. Plus: analysis of stock levels.

The NZTA has been seeking feedback on the structure of an admin charge for the clean car standard. Assuming a flat fee, it anticipates the charge will be $18-$23 per unit based on average annual light-vehicle imports of 270,000 to 300,000.

Assurant has completed a rebrand of Protecta Insurance. It’s adding more automotive products and solutions to the New Zealand business two years after acquiring it.

Listings platform Only Cars has launched here and is operating under an equity-share model that allows participating traders to have shares in it. We talk to Todd Fuller, general manager.

Frank Willett chats to Autofile about swapping Auckland for a town surrounded by wineries after seven years at Autohub NZ’s helm.

BYD is celebrating after its Sealion 6 was voted AA Driven Car Guide New Zealand Car of the Year 2024. The judges say the hybrid SUV is the “right car at the right time” for this country.

• The industry is mourning the loss of Gerald Lawrence at the age of 80. He was the inaugural general manager of VINZ.

• Adele Rose, of the 3R Group, says she’s “proud” of Tyrewise’s achievements.

• Brian Dewil, ex-founding managing director of Ola NZ, is Drive Electric’s new CEO. Plus: industry movers.

• Top tips for traders from James Hendry, of AdTorque Edge NZ, ahead of the new year.

• Larry Fallowfield, of the MTA, explains why dealers need to leverage off opportunities to capitalise on future growth.

• VIA’s Kit Wilkerson says policies that balance innovation with fair access need to be considered for driverless cars.

To read the December edition of Autofile, click here.