News in brief

THE NUTS AND BOLTS OF WHAT’S HAPPENING AND COMING UP IN THE INDUSTRY EVS TO START PRICE BATTLE

So far seen as being luxury or at least expensive automobiles, EVs seem to now be entering a price battle in the Australasian market.

The introduction of two under $50K vehicles could be marking the beginning of price-based competition in the sector and giving access to the technology to a larger audience.

MG New Zealand recently announced a new variant to the upcoming fully electric MG4 range: the 51KWh Excite is expected to become the first EV in the country to be priced at under $40K (after the clean car rebate). Likewise, BYD’s new Dolphin — which recently launched in Australia, is expected to arrive in New Zealand soon and is, likewise, competing on price. This has had several industry experts there predicting an under AU$30,000 new EV price tag in the near future, as well as further changes and pressures on the maintenance and repairs sector.

Execs On The Move

MG Motor New Zealand has appointed a new country manager. This appointment will see Arek Zywot step into the country manager position following Patrick Bourke’s return to headquarters in Australia after his secondment last year. Mr Zywot brings 11 years of automotive experience and under his leadership, he has grown brands and successfully launched more than 20 models in the New Zealand market.

“I have spent my entire working life in the automotive industry locally, and to now be leading the New Zealand arm of MG Motor is an absolute privilege,” said Mr Zywot.

Changes Of Leadership At Europcar Nz

Europcar New Zealand has appointed Caddie Kerr as its new head of country and Claire Reynolds as its new national sales manager.

Kerr has been with Europcar for the past five years working across Australia and New Zealand in both national customer experience manager and network revenue manager roles.

Reynolds joins Europcar with a background in sales in the travel and tourism industry, across the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. As national sales manager, she will strategically develop business in the corporate, leasing, vehicle replacement,