The new Ford Ranger line-up due next year has been designed to further reflect the changing role of utes in New Zealand, from work-only vehicles to family carry-alls. It was something Mitsubishi identified with the fourth-generation Triton ute 16 years ago. Japanese executives forecast huge growth in the ute sector beyond 2005 and wanted what was then a polarising new Triton … [Read more...] about Ford seeks broader audience for 2022 work/play Ranger ute
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New PHEV Mitsi Outlander will go further on electricity alone
Mitsubishi has given the powertrain in its 2022 PHEV Outlander more of everything, including boosting by 52.7 per cent the electric-only range of the SUV, from a maximum 55km to 84km. The extra range in electric mode comes from a 20kWh battery pack, a capacity 45 per cent greater than the outgoing model’s 13.8kWh. The upgrades result in a combined power output – from the … [Read more...] about New PHEV Mitsi Outlander will go further on electricity alone
All-electric Toyota points to future of solid-state batteries
The Toyota bZ4X, the Japanese carmaker’s first battery-electric vehicle (BEV), ushers in the evolutionary next stage of electric automotive power: solid-state batteries (SSB). The bZ4X SUV won’t have SSB power on board when it lands in New Zealand later next year. Instead it will be powered by a conventional liquid-cooled lithium ion pack. But it remains a Toyota pioneer … [Read more...] about All-electric Toyota points to future of solid-state batteries
Hardcore Benz G-Wagen gets emergency ‘escape’ switch
A variant of the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen that is unlikely to find a role in New Zealand comes with an electronic emergency device designed to hustle the vehicle and its occupants away from life-threatening situations. It’s called the Emergency Override Switch, a panic button, of sorts. M-B isn’t saying how it works exactly. Nor does it offer an example of life-threatening … [Read more...] about Hardcore Benz G-Wagen gets emergency ‘escape’ switch
Oil the No. 1 source of energy until at least 2045, says Opec
The Opec oil cartel has issued a reminder that crude will continue to be the world’s leading source of energy for decades, driven by less-wealthy countries seeking higher economic growth and improved standards of living. Opec’s bullish pronouncement comes as nations prepare to gather for the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow to discuss ways in which the world’s population can … [Read more...] about Oil the No. 1 source of energy until at least 2045, says Opec