May issue out now

We talk to business owners who say price rises to list their vehicles on Trade Me are becoming “unaffordable”.

Some are looking at different options as they face an extra 30-plus per cent to stay on similar packages from July 1. Autofile investigates and publishes dealers’ views in addition to Trade Me’s response.

Lee Marshall, of the Motor Trade Association (MTA), says the “already critical” labour shortage will likely worsen with the government axeing panel beaters and vehicle painters from NZ Immigration’s green list.

In-depth: Autofile reports on the passing of Sir Colin Giltrap. We look at his achievements as founder of the Giltrap Group, his love of motorsport, his philanthropy and take a trip down memory lane.

Three industry organisations have backed a government proposal that all vehicles shift to road-user charges. And why draft land-transport policies are under scrutiny.

As predicted in April’s Autofile, a last-minute change to the emissions rule means used imports will not be required to “enter into service” within four months of being border-inspected.

David Sena, 2 Cheap Cars’ majority shareholder, has become CEO of the company with Paul Millward resigning from the job.

And the first race at the Taupo round of the V8 Supercars Championship delivered a historic career-first victory in the series for Kiwi Andre Heimgartner.

• AdTorque Edge NZ’s James Hendry has top tips on how to promote your company via Google My Business.

• Todd Fuller, has become general manager of the newly formed classifieds site Only Cars.

• Larry Fallowfield, of the MTA, says it’s now up to dealers to bestow the benefits of low-emissions vehicles.

• VIA’s Kit Wilkerson explains an intriguing truth that’s emerging – all cars are solar-powered.

• Kia has confirmed the launch of its new ute called the Tasman in New Zealand next year.

Plus: MG’s expansion, the New York Auto Show, Omoda Jaecoo’s official launch, in-depth industry statistics and much more. Autofile: The trusted voice of the automotive industry – and car dealers – for 40 years.

To view online, click here.