February issue out now

The Motor Industry Association is calling for the government to rethink a vehicle exhaust emissions rule amendment that would introduce in-service conformity testing for light-vehicle imports from some jurisdictions, warning it risks creating an unnecessary regulatory burden. 

Meanwhile, the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association wants emissions standards from different countries to be treated as “alternative but equal” to avoid complexity for importers and officials. It’s lobbying for the “fair treatment” of Japanese standards.

The medium-sized SUV segment performed the best in New Zealand last year with a 23.5 per cent market share. It was followed by compact SUVs with 21.8 per cent while sales of pick-ups / chassis cab 4x4s rebounded to 17.4 per cent. Plus: Results from Japan and Australia.

Larry Fallowfield, of the Motor Trade Association, explains there are several reasons to be optimistic about the future of the industry. “It will be crucial for dealers to meet consumers’ demands and achieve sustainable growth.”

Vehicle pollution is falling. But it still has a social cost of more than $10 billion a year. A government report says emissions per kilometre driven will likely reduce over time, but other non-exhaust air pollution will go up. 

Autohub NZ has prepared a strategic roadmap for the next three years with diversification into other markets being a key focus. CEO Jim Shi talks to Autofile about why teamwork is so important for success.

The government wants to amend the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act to support the uptake of smart EV chargers to improve consumers’ ability to switch “fuelling up” times from network peaks.

• James Hendry, of AdTorque Edge NZ, explains why in-depth audits of marketing activity allows dealers to set themselves up for success. 

• Greig Epps, VIA’s chief executive, congratulates Brett Gliddon on becoming the NZTA’s CEO and urges the regulator to adopt a balanced approach.

• Invercargill’s Brendon Leitch has scored his first win of the new year at the Michelin 24 Hours of Dubai.

• The Chevrolet Corvette has arrived with its hybrid E-Ray, Stingray and high-performance Z06.

Plus: Ex-Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy is now chair of the Climate Change Commission.

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