Chinese operatives have stolen the 007 codename of fictional secret service agent James Bond and stuck it on the back of a … CAR THAT RUNS ON BATTERIES! British secret service suits are outraged. Electric cars are one thing, they say, but the 007 numbers are as sacrosanct in MI6 circles as bottles of good claret. Distressed MI6 chief M left the service’s building … [Read more...] about Bond 007 electric car is from China with love
Volkswagen's Piech
China’s ‘creeping takeover’ of Western automotive rivals
Former Stellantis group boss Carlos Tavares warns that Chinese carmakers will end up as “saviours” of European factories and jobs. Tavares (pictured) told Britain’s Financial Times (FT) that a creeping takeover by China will hasten the demise of some western manufacturers as they grapple with stringent emissions regulations, the global trade war and shifting policy on … [Read more...] about China’s ‘creeping takeover’ of Western automotive rivals
Domestic price war among Chinese carmakers risks exports
Chinese carmakers gaining a foothold in New Zealand are headlining a vicious price war in their home market that is causing alarm in Beijing. China’s communist party bosses have warned 16 brands that they risk further destabilising a domestic market already oversaturated with companies fighting to win over drivers. A recent Reuters report said analysts believe competition … [Read more...] about Domestic price war among Chinese carmakers risks exports
Spoilt for choice: plug-in sales up 150.0%
The words of former Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda have particular relevance in New Zealand, judging by continuing trends in the country’s new vehicle market. Toyoda insisted some years ago that investing in alternative fuel technologies made more sense than focusing solely on battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). “Rather than telling people what they should drive,” Toyoda said, … [Read more...] about Spoilt for choice: plug-in sales up 150.0%
Kia eyes further growth with $52,690 4WD ute
Kia will launch four versions of its double-cab Tasman ute in New Zealand later this year, the entry-level model priced at $52,690 and the range-topper at $79,690. The four will be followed later by a full range of Tasman variants, including two-door and four-door cab and chassis options. “There will be a Tasman model to suit almost all requirements,” said Kia NZ managing … [Read more...] about Kia eyes further growth with $52,690 4WD ute