Tourists to New Zealand could find themselves looking at the landscape through the windows of all-electric mini-buses – that’s if plans by Chinese van company LDV fall into place. Its distributor here is importing zero-emission versions of the V80 cargo van for long-time specialist NZ company Jackson Enterprises to convert into mini-buses. “We’re bringing them in as an … [Read more...] about All-electric mini-buses as airport shuttles – that’s LDV plan
Kia and Isuzu the go-getters in 2013-2017 sales figures
Registrations of traditional passenger sedans and hatchbacks have tumbled over the past five years, as New Zealanders move towards SUVs and utes. In August 2013, for instance, the Holden Commodore sat at No. 5 on the top 15 list. Last month it was No. 10. A month earlier it was No. 11. Five years ago the Holden Cruze, Toyota Yaris, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, … [Read more...] about Kia and Isuzu the go-getters in 2013-2017 sales figures
‘Huge market’ awaits Bosch’s off-the-shelf EV powertrain
German parts supplier Bosch has developed a “start-up powertrain for electric vehicles”, a plug-in system combining electric motor, transmission and power control electronics into one package. It calls it the ‘e-axle’, short for ‘electronic axle drive’. And it hopes carmakers that don’t yet have EV s in showrooms will buy the off-the-shelf Bosch system to avoid expensive … [Read more...] about ‘Huge market’ awaits Bosch’s off-the-shelf EV powertrain
TV host looks at second-generation Honda NSX
In this edition of Jay Leno’s Garage, the US television host looks at the second-generation Honda NSX, or Acura NSX as it is known in North America. Leno is joined by NSX designer Michelle Christensen and project leader Ted Klaus. Honda’s office in New Zealand is not sure when the NSX will be available here. … [Read more...] about TV host looks at second-generation Honda NSX
Rare aluminium-bodied Ferrari found in Japan is up for auction
A unique Ferrari Daytona found earlier this year in a garage in Japan will be auctioned at the carmaker’s headquarters in Italy next week, alongside a new LaFerrari Aperta. Why the special event? Because the 1969 365 GTB/4 Daytona (above and below) is believed to be the only street-legal Daytona made with an all-aluminium body. Auction house R M Sothebys said Ferrari … [Read more...] about Rare aluminium-bodied Ferrari found in Japan is up for auction