Auto Channel — Issue 95 October 2026

ISSUE 95 OCTOBER 2026

THE VOICE OF THE NEW ZEALAND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

AHS, Liftech and Treadway Equipped unite under the Hoist & Garage name ​ HE MERGER CREATES NEW ZEALAND’S LARGEST FLEET OF MOBILE T WORKSHOP-EQUIPMENT TECHNICIANS, GIVING WORKSHOPS ONE TEAM FOR EQUIPMENT, INSTALLATION, SERVICING AND CERTIFICATION

MORE THAN PICKING A MACHINE

oist & Garage has entered a new chapter, bringing together the people, experience, and capabilities of AHS, Liftech, and Treadway Equipped under one name. The combined business gives automotive workshops a complete range of equipment, installation, servicing, and certification from a single, stronger team. The expanded operation brings together complementary areas of expertise. Treadway Equipped has supplied workshops with equipment from established international

For workshop owners, investing in equipment is about more than choosing a machine from a catalogue. It means finding the right solution for the workshop, having it installed correctly, and knowing experienced support will be available throughout its working life. Whether a customer is replacing one essential machine, introducing a new service, or planning a complete workshop fit-out, Hoist & Garage can provide support from the earliest stages of a project through to installation and ongoing maintenance.

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manufacturers, while Hoist & Garage has built extensive practical knowledge installing, servicing, and certifying vehicle hoists. AHS and Liftech add further technical expertise and service capability. For workshop owners, that means fewer gaps between buying equipment, arranging installation, and securing ongoing technical support. Instead, they deal with one team that understands both the equipment and the environment it needs to perform in.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

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Contents AHS, Liftech and Treadway Equipped unite under the Hoist & Garage name

Cover

Supercheap Auto Trade brings its price tiers into the open

​ ccess, Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers now reward quarterly spend with sharper A pricing, free delivery, and account support; here is how the programme works and how to move up

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Corghi Erco HC4002: a 4,000kg two-post hoist that fits the bay

​ utomaster’s Corghi clear-floor asymmetric lift covers city cars to light commercials, with A two widths, two heights, and a 95mm pad height

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Why workshops are switching to Hoist

Auto Channel talks to the team behind Hoist, the New Zealand-built platform that brings job cards, invoicing and payments into one system, about the gap they saw in workshop software and where they plan to take it next

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Kumho EV bus tyre goes on trial in New Zealand

​ lairs is running the KCA31 on a local electric bus fleet, with B Kumho engineers flying in to oversee the fit and a three-fold tyrelife gap to close

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Office Products Depot joins Blackfern

​ early 2,000 members can now buy office and workplace supplies on their N Blackfern account and earn Rewards Points on the way

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Automechanika 2026 draws 112,000 to Frankfurt

​​ Software-defined vehicles, AI diagnostics, and remanufacturing set the tone at the trade’s biggest show, and the Innovation Awards point to where workshop technology is heading

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MITO’s first industry summit and awards

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REDARC slims down its REDLAB lithium battery

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Product News

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Supplier Directory

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​ he merger creates New Zealand’s largest fleet of mobile workshop-equipment T technicians, giving workshops one team for equipment, installation, servicing and certification

CLOSER TO CUSTOMERS

ISSN 2816-0959 (Print) ISSN 2816-0967 (Online)

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NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS Via Media uses due care and diligence in the preparation of this magazine, but is not responsible or liable for any mistakes, misprints, omissions, or typographical errors. Via Media prints advertisements provided to the publisher but gives no warranty and makes no representation to the truth, accuracy, or sufficiency of any description, photograph, or statement. Via Media accepts no liability for any loss which may be suffered by any person who relies either wholly or in part upon any description, photograph, or statement contained herein. Via Media reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Via Media, the publisher, or editor. All material published, gathered, or created for Auto Channel is copyright 2026 Via Media Limited. All rights reserved in all media. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the publisher.

Auto Channel is the best way to reach the wider automotive industry. The publication is direct mailed to New Zealand businesses in the following automotive sectors: Automotive workshops, parts importers and distributors, transmission specialists, automotive recyclers, towing operators, panel beaters and painters, crash repairers, tyre dealers, suspension and underbody repairers, steering specialists, auto-electrical repairers, new and used-car dealers, air-conditioning repairers, trucking and transport.

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Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

With the combined people and capabilities of AHS, Liftech, and Treadway Equipped, Hoist & Garage now operates New Zealand’s largest fleet of mobile workshop-equipment technicians. With team members based across the country, servicing, certification, and technical support sit closer to customers’ workshop doors when they need them. “Bringing these businesses together gives our customers access to a much broader pool of workshop-equipment knowledge and practical experience,” says Loren Bill, Director of Sales. “Our goal is to make it easier for workshops to get the right equipment, have it installed properly and keep it operating safely and reliably.” The change also gives the business a stronger foundation for future growth. With its people and services operating under one name, Hoist & Garage is better positioned to support workshops with equipment selection, installation, preventative maintenance, repairs, and ongoing compliance. Customers will continue to deal with familiar people, now backed by the resources, reach, and expertise of a larger combined team.

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN PUT TO WORK After decades specifying, installing, servicing, and certifying equipment in workshops across New Zealand, the Hoist & Garage team knows that no two workshops operate in quite the same way. Its advice is grounded in practical experience of what works on the workshop floor. Workshop equipment is a significant investment. The right choice can improve workflow, create new revenue opportunities, and help technicians work more efficiently. The wrong choice can create bottlenecks, restrict the vehicles a workshop can service, or leave valuable equipment underused. That is why good advice begins with understanding the workshop, not simply recommending a machine. The teams behind Hoist & Garage, Liftech, AHS, and Treadway Equipped have spent countless hours working inside independent

workshops, tyre shops, dealerships, and larger service operations like AA Service Centres. They know space is often limited, downtime is expensive, and every piece of equipment needs to earn its place.

FINDING THE RIGHT FIT Through Treadway Equipped, the combined team brings extensive experience specifying and recommending workshop equipment. How the workshop operates, the services it provides, available space, expected use, and future plans all help determine the right solution. It means Hoist & Garage can recommend equipment suited to the customer’s operation, not simply what happens to be in the catalogue.

JUST ABOUT EVERY HOIST YOU CAN THINK OF The combined technical team has installed, serviced, or repaired just about every vehiclehoist brand found in New Zealand, and has the manuals to prove it. That experience is especially valuable when a hoist develops a fault, a workshop has a wide range of brands, or the original supplier is no longer available. Technicians can draw on decades of technical knowledge, documentation, and hands-on experience to find the right path forward.

SERVICE HISTORY CARRIED FORWARD Equipment records and servicing histories held within existing asset-management systems will be carried forward. This gives customers continuity, while helping the Hoist & Garage team understand previous work and plan future servicing and certification. Together, this equipment knowledge, technical experience, and service history give Hoist & Garage a deeper understanding of both the machines it supports and the workshops that depend on them. It is a new chapter for Hoist & Garage, but the purpose remains straightforward: helping New Zealand workshops operate safely, efficiently, and confidently.

TC30260 09-2026

One team. Complete workshop solutions. Workshop equipment, installation and nationwide support from a team that understands workshops.

EQUIP YOUR WORKSHOP FOR WHAT COMES NEXT HOISTS

TYRE BAY

ALIGNERS / BRAKE TESTERS

LT245CF

ST280HA

4.5 Tonne Hydraulic Clear Floor 2 Post Hoist

Tyre Changer with helper arm

FROM

FROM

$5,300

$5,790

Q.Lign T-Series

Precision Wheel Aligner FROM

$36,900

LT450APRO

ST420

XT 4220 Kompact

5 Tonne Hydraulic 4 Post Alignment Hoist

Wheel Balancer

4 Tonne Brake Tester

FROM

FROM

FROM

$20,900

$3,790

K E E P YO U R WO R KS H O P E Q U I P M E N T SA F E , C O M P L I A N T A N D WO R K I N G

$24,300

Book a service

Installation, Certification, Servicing Talk to us about scheduled servicing, preventative maintenance, repairs and hoist certification. Our workshop service plans make it easier to stay ahead of maintenance, reduce unexpected downtime and keep your records in order.

100

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1

ERCEN 0P 0

TI

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A

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DAYS S FA C T I

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Our promise: If you are not 100% satisfied with your equipment, Hoist & Garage will repair, replace or refund the equipment free of charge within the first 100 days.

GET IN TOUCH

0800 436 436 sales@hoistandgarage.co.nz

To book a service, scan the code or visit: hoistandgarage.co.nz/service

Supplied by us or not, we’ll keep your workshop working ​ HE COMBINED HOIST & GARAGE, AHS, LIFTECH AND T TREADWAY EQUIPPED TEAM BACKS WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT OF ANY BRAND WITH INSTALLATION, SERVICING, REPAIRS AND EQUIPMENT AUDITS

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oist & Garage supplies carefully selected workshop equipment, but its technical support extends far beyond the brands it sells. From professional installation and equipment audits to servicing, repairs, and certification, the expanded team can support the machinery across an entire workshop. Most workshops operate equipment accumulated over many years. A hoist may have come from one supplier, a tyre changer from

EQUIPMENT SELECTED FOR REAL WORKSHOPS Through the experience and supplier relationships developed by Treadway Equipped, Hoist & Garage offers equipment from established international manufacturers across key workshop categories. The team begins by understanding how the workshop operates. Its vehicle mix, services, available space, expected equipment use, and future plans all influence the recommendation. This helps customers choose equipment suited to their operation — not simply what happens to be in the catalogue.

another, and an aligner from another again. Managing each machine separately can mean coordinating several service providers, tracking different maintenance schedules, and working out who to call when something goes wrong. Hoist & Garage offers a simpler approach: one experienced service partner for workshop equipment, regardless of brand or who originally supplied it.

Nussbaum Smart Lift SL235, a trusted electromechanical 3.5t hoist with asymmetrical telescopic arms, and a low space requirement

NUSSBAUM SMART LIFT SL235 Made in Germany, the Nussbaum Smart Lift is an electromechanical two-post hoist with a 3,500kg lifting capacity. Its low minimum pad height, asymmetrical double-telescopic arms, and flexible installation width help it

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Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

accommodate a broad vehicle mix and suit different workshop layouts. With a lifting height of up to 2,010mm, it is a versatile option for busy general automotive workshops.

STEINER ST280HA TYRE CHANGER The Steiner ST280HA combines a direct-drive turntable with variable speed from 6 to 13rpm, delivering power and control for everyday tyre work. Its helper arms assist with stiff sidewalls and more challenging tyres, while the adjustable bead breaker is suitable for run-flat tyres. With internal clamping up to 26 inches, it is a versatile choice for dealerships, workshops, and tyre bays.

installation and commissioning. The same service is available to workshop owners who have purchased equipment elsewhere, relocated it from another site, or received it as part of a larger project.

ALL BRANDS, ONE SERVICE PARTNER Customers also do not need to buy a new machine from Hoist & Garage to access its servicing and repair capability. The team services equipment across all brands, allowing workshops to coordinate the care of their hoists, tyre changers, wheel balancers, aligners, and other machinery through one provider. For workshops with mixed-brand equipment, that means one team to contact, one servicing programme to manage, and a clearer record of the work completed across the site. The combined technical team has worked on just about every vehicle-hoist brand found in New Zealand, and has the manuals to prove it. That knowledge is particularly valuable when unfamiliar equipment develops a fault or the original supplier is no longer available.

START WITH AN EQUIPMENT AUDIT

Steiner ST280HA tyre changer with helper arms

BEISSBARTH Q.LIGN COMPACT WHEEL ALIGNER The Beissbarth Q.Lign combines compact, wireless 3D measuring heads with web-based software that can display on a tablet, laptop, PC, or workshop screen — removing the need for a conventional aligner trolley. Its Q.Grip clamps attach in seconds without contacting the rim, helping prevent damage and accelerate set-up. OEM-approved versions are also available, including the Volkswagen Grouphomologated VAS 701 011. These are examples from the wider Hoist & Garage range. The team can assist with a single equipment purchase, the addition of a new workshop service, or a complete fit-out involving several bays.

For workshops without an accurate asset register or coordinated maintenance plan, an equipment audit provides a practical starting point. Hoist & Garage can record the machinery on site, review its condition and service status, and identify upcoming servicing, repair, or certification requirements. The audit gives the workshop a clearer picture of the equipment it relies on and highlights any issues requiring attention. It may also identify machinery approaching the end of its useful life, giving the business time to plan and budget for repair or replacement rather than making a rushed decision after a breakdown. Following the audit, Hoist & Garage can develop a servicing plan based on the workshop’s equipment and operating requirements. Maintenance and certification can be brought into a coordinated schedule instead

Beissbarth Q.Lign Compact Wheel Aligner of being managed machine by machine. Equipment records and service histories are retained within the asset-management system, building a useful history for each machine. “Our customers rely on their equipment to earn revenue every day,” says Loren Bill, Director of Sales. “Most workshops also have machinery from several brands and suppliers. By bringing that equipment into one servicing programme, we give the customer one team to call and one less thing to coordinate.”

KEEP YOUR WORKSHOP WORKING Whether a workshop needs a new machine, independent installation, a one-off repair, or a coordinated servicing programme, Hoist & Garage can provide a practical next step. For an equipment audit, call 0800 436 436, email sales@hoistandgarage.co.nz, or visit hoistandgarage.co.nz

PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION, WHOEVER SUPPLIED IT Not every installation starts with equipment purchased from Hoist & Garage. The technical team installs machinery supplied by other distributors, giving equipment companies access to experienced installation support while allowing them to retain their customer relationship. Equipment can be shipped directly to the workshop, where a Hoist & Garage technician completes the

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representative — a single point of contact for pricing, stock, and problem-solving, which is the level of support a high-volume workshop would otherwise expect from a wholesaler.

HOW QUALIFICATION WORKS

Supercheap Auto Trade brings its price tiers into the open

​​​ ACCESS, SILVER, GOLD, AND PLATINUM TIERS NOW REWARD QUARTERLY SPEND WITH SHARPER PRICING, FREE DELIVERY, AND ACCOUNT SUPPORT; HERE IS HOW THE PROGRAMME WORKS AND HOW TO MOVE UP

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upercheap Auto Trade has had pricing tiers for some time, but until now they have worked entirely behind the scenes. Keen-eyed Trade account holders may have already spotted the change, with their Trade Price Tier now visible online and at checkout in store. Putting Trade Price Tiers front and centre gives workshops a clear view of where they sit, what they’re getting for their spend, and what’s required to reach the next tier. Supercheap Auto Trade’s intent is to make the tiers part of the customer experience rather than an internal calculation — a visible return on loyalty that a workshop can plan its buying around. The idea is simple. Every trade account starts at Access, unlocking everyday trade pricing. As spend across a quarter increases, the account moves automatically into Silver, Gold, or Platinum, and each step brings a deeper discount and a wider set of benefits. Nothing to apply for, no plan to choose — the tiers follow the spend.

THE FOUR TIERS The entry-level Access tier is the standard trade account: trade pricing, the Parts Guide and Repair Times tools, log book servicing

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Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

information, hotline access, the barcode scanner, online account management, quick ordering tools, and free standard delivery on orders over $50. Payment is pay-as-you-go or 30-day credit at every level. Silver starts at $750 of spend per quarter, Gold at $2,000, and Platinum at $10,000. Spend is counted including GST but excludes delivery, gift cards, and tyres. Each tier carries its own discount level over the one below, and free delivery steps up from standard to sameday on orders over $50 from Silver upward. At Platinum, the account gains a dedicated sales

Tiers are assessed on quarterly spend. Once an account crosses a threshold during a quarter, the new tier’s pricing and benefits apply for the rest of that quarter and the whole of the following one; Supercheap Auto asks for up to 10 days for the new pricing to come into effect. At the end of the next full quarter, the tier is reassessed. A workshop that has a quiet quarter is not automatically dropped: if annualised spend is at least four times the quarterly threshold, the tier holds until the next review. Because every purchase on the account counts, the quickest way up is to put more of the workshop’s everyday buying through it. Supercheap Auto Trade’s Authorised Users function lets an owner give purchasing access to trusted staff — an apprentice picking up consumables, a mobile technician buying on the road — with every transaction linked back to the one business account. That keeps spend visible and receipts in one place, and it means the whole team’s buying contributes to the tier, not just the owner’s.

WHAT SITS BEHIND THE TIERS The tiers layer over a trade account that already carries a set of practical tools. The barcode scanner on the trade website shows the account’s own price, specifications, and availability for any product scanned in store or at the bench, with the option to add it straight to the cart. Thirty-day credit lets a workshop take the parts now and settle within 30 days, so a parts-heavy job can be finished and invoiced before the money leaves the bank. Behind that sits trade pricing across oils from Castrol, Mobil, Penrite, Nulon, Gulf Western, and SCA, plus parts, tools, batteries, consumables, and workshop gear, with perlitre pricing shown online so drum and bottle sizes can be compared at a glance. Registration needs only an NZBN, and the account is free. The full tier table and qualification rules are at trade.supercheapauto.co.nz/price-tiers. Create your free NZ Trade account with your NZBN at trade.supercheapauto.co.nz

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Don Kyatt named Victoria’s exporter of the year ​​ THE TERRAIN TAMER PARENT COMPANY TOOK THE MANUFACTURING CATEGORY AT THE GOVERNOR OF VICTORIA EXPORT AWARDS ON THE BACK OF THREE YEARS OF EXPORT GROWTH

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on Kyatt Spare Parts, the Melbourne company behind the Terrain Tamer 4WD brand, has been named Governor of Victoria Exporter of the Year in the Manufacturing and Advanced Materials category. The award recognises sustained international growth and the company’s role in taking Australian engineering and manufacturing overseas. Victoria’s Governor, Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, presented the award at Government House in Melbourne on 3 September. Founder and Managing Director Frank Hutchinson accepted it.

60,000 PARTS, 80 COUNTRIES Now in its 57th year, Don Kyatt supplies a catalogue of more than 60,000 automotive components to customers in more than 80 countries. Terrain Tamer products are designed and engineered at the company’s Victorian headquarters to meet or exceed original-

equipment specifications, proven in some of the harshest operating environments in the world, with applications across mining, agriculture, defence, infrastructure, emergency services, and remote transport. Export sales have grown significantly over the past three years and now make up more than a quarter of total company revenue. The company sells through nine company-owned international branches — New Zealand among them — on top of 10 branches in Australia and a network of more than 50 independent stockists. The most significant recent step has been a North American operation, giving Don Kyatt an entry into the world’s largest automotive aftermarket. Senior Australian staff set it up to carry the company’s technical expertise and service standards into the new market. Expansion has continued across Latin America, Africa, Europe, and the Pacific on the same model: international branches handle warehousing, technical support, and

Frank Hutchinson of Don Kyatt Spare Parts receiving the Governor of Victoria Export Award at Government House, Melbourne customer service, and Australian teams provide leadership, training, and operational support. Hutchinson said the award recognised the people and the Australian capability behind the company’s growth. “Don Kyatt has always been proud of its Australian roots, and it is incredibly rewarding to see the expertise, innovation and hard work of our people recognised at this level,” he said. “From Melbourne, we have built a business that now supports customers in more than 80 countries. This award is a tremendous honour for our entire team and reinforces our belief that Australian engineering and manufacturing can compete successfully anywhere in the world.” As the Victorian category winner, Don Kyatt Spare Parts goes on to represent the state at the Australian Export Awards. For more information, visit donkyatt.com.au

THE KEY TO TAMING UNBEARABLE CONDITIONS. Terrain Tamer Heavy Duty Bearing Kits feature bearings designed and manufactured for vehicles operating in extreme conditions. Made in Japan with a Rockwell hardness rating that is 2.5 points higher than the OE equivalent, these bearings combine a new forging technique with an upgraded heat treatment procedure to enable longer service. These kits also include an innovative new range of Heavy Duty hub seals which rotate on their own internal surface, without relying on the condition of the shaft for their function. These seals utilise a labyrinth construction to better prevent the loss of oil and lubricating fluids and better protect against the ingress of dirt and other contaminants.

Phone 1300 888 444 or visit terraintamer.com

This makes them perfectly suited to harsh muddy and dusty conditions and ensures extended seal and bearing life. Additionally, the kits now include Heavy Duty Axle Seals, which have been specifically designed to combat premature axle shaft wear. Featuring a self-lubricating, dual lip design to protect against oil leaks and contaminant ingress, these seals reduce friction by up to 30 per cent and minimise contact wear between the seal and axle shaft, helping to preserve both components, reduce maintenance frequency and improve long-term reliability in demanding conditions.

INCLUDES NEW HEAVY DUTY AXLE SEALS

Corghi Erco HC4002: a 4,000kg two-post hoist that fits the bay AUTOMASTER’S CORGHI CLEAR-FLOOR ASYMMETRIC LIFT COVERS CITY CARS TO LIGHT COMMERCIALS, WITH TWO WIDTHS, TWO HEIGHTS, AND A 95MM PAD HEIGHT

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he Corghi Erco HC4002 is a 4,000kg clear-floor electrohydraulic hoist built for general repair and servicing, from small hatchbacks through to large SUVs and vans. It is designed and manufactured to the current EN 1493 lift standard and carries CE certification. The HC4002 is an asymmetric installation. The columns are set to give a wide dooropening angle, so a technician can get into the cabin without risking a door edge on the post, and rubber door guards are fitted as standard. Four three-stage telescopic arms provide a wide lifting envelope for short to medium wheelbases, and the rear arms park parallel to the columns to leave maximum room for positioning a vehicle. TWO WIDTHS, TWO HEIGHTS Installation is where the HC4002 earns its keep. The top crossbar has adjustable mounting, so you can set the overall width at 3,500mm or reduce it to 3,250mm for a tighter bay, with 2,752mm between the columns.

Column height is 3,995mm or 4,220mm, with an optional 700mm extension. The bent columns are built in two sections with an internally reinforced structure, which keeps the lift stable and makes it easier to move and install. The required concrete depth is 140mm, or 100mm with the optional base-plate extensions, depending on the anchors used. Lifting is by two full-length, direct-drive hydraulic cylinders of the pushing type, synchronised by cable and driven by a 3kW motor in either 400V three-phase or 230V single-phase. Maximum lift height is 2,043mm. The double-telescopic pads adjust from 95mm to 174mm and include 50mm and 100mm extensions for 4WDs; optional pads reduce the minimum height to 78mm for very low vehicles, and an EV lifting accessory kit is available. Safety hardware includes an electrically operated mechanical lock, an encapsulated arm-locking system with 360-degree toothed engagement that keeps moisture and

RS E G N G N HA I C H E S WI YR T E B R LL FO ’ U O S. Y L E D E O O WH E SO G R MO D A H S R A C

workshop debris out of the mechanism, a top-crossbar limit switch that stops the lift before a roof meets the beam, and a CE safety stop before the final descent, which removes the need for a foot-guard bar. A secondary lowering-speed kit is available for a slower, more controlled descent. Automaster carries a full inventory of replacement parts and supports the HC4002 from its Auckland and Christchurch branches. Contact Automaster at info@automaster.co.nz or 0800 214 604, or visit automaster.co.nz

$

2,395*

AM-106B swing arm tyre changer is the perfect changer for a smaller workshop. 10"- 22"Outside clamping. Side swinging for space saving. Includes lube brush, Tyre lube, tyre lever, plastic jaw protectors & head inserts. From

$ 7,495*

Automaster AM-228IT Platinum Edition Heavy duty tyre changer is designed for mid-high volume . Includes helper arm. 1PH 230V Mini inverter motor or 3PH 380V 2 Speed 10-24"outside clamping Tubeless air blaster

$ 16,340* A2025TI-MI Tyre Changer with SP2300 helper arms. Adjustable bead breaker pad Load sensing variable torque Mini Inverter motor Air spring for auto vertical shaft movement. *Delivery, installation and GST not included

AUTO EQUIPMENT BUILT TO PERFORM AUCKLAND 87 Henderson Valley Rd, Henderson CHRISTCHURCH 6 Gerald Connolly Place, Hornby

Email: info@automaster.co.nz Call toll-free: 0800 214 604

automaster.co.nz

Manager for NTK.

WHAT IS IN THE BOX Each kit carries the filters matched to the specific vehicle application, along with a sump plug washer, a windscreen service sticker, two nitrile gloves, and a bonus NTK floor mat. “We have included the small things that make a big difference,” Henson said. Because the components are selected to the vehicle’s own requirements, NTK says technicians can fit them with confidence and expect a correct fit every time. Bundling the parts also has a cost angle. NTK says buying the service essentials together works out cheaper than purchasing each part individually, and it simplifies the regular maintenance routine — one kit, one part number, one complete service.

NTK bundles the service into one box

​ HE NEW NTK FILTER KIT PUTS VEHICLE-MATCHED FILTERS T AND THE SERVICE EXTRAS UNDER A SINGLE PART NUMBER

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TK has introduced a Filter Kit range that packages the core filtration components for a vehicle service, plus the consumables that usually get sourced separately, in one organised box under one part number. The kits are aimed at workshops and enthusiasts

who want a complete, professional service without chasing parts from several suppliers. “No more sourcing parts from multiple locations. Our curated kits provide the core filtration components specifically matched to your vehicle,” said James Henson, Product

Ransomware hits Australian dealers via remote-access tools

AN ON-PREMISE BREACH AT SIX AUSTRALIAN DEALERSHIPS SHOWS THE ADVANTAGE OF CLOUD-BASED WORKSHOP SOFTWARE, WHERE PATCHING IS THE VENDOR’S JOB, NOT YOURS

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ix Australian dealer and machinery businesses have been listed on the leak site of a new ransomware group, Storm, after a breach at their dealer management system provider, Auto-IT. The company, which has a Wellington office and customers on both sides of the Tasman, says a small number of customer environments were reached through unauthorised use of third-party remote monitoring and management tools — the utilities a support provider uses to log in and fix things on a customer’s computer system. Storm appeared in August and had listed more than 50 alleged victims by midSeptember. Security researchers tracking the group’s StormEncryptor ransomware link it to an authentication-bypass flaw in N-central, a remote-management platform from N-able that IT providers use to look after their customers’ systems, disclosed and patched in early August. Two weeks after the patch, a large share of the N-central servers reachable from the internet

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Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

were still running the unpatched version. Auto-IT has not said which tool was involved in its case, but the wider pattern is familiar: the vendor issues a fix, and the systems still exposed weeks later are the ones that have not applied it. None of this changes the case for running a workshop on current software. A wellmaintained platform, whether cloud-hosted by the vendor or on a workshop’s own server, gets its security fixes as they are released, and a cloud-hosted system takes that job off the workshop entirely. Exposure in incidents like this one often comes from forgotten edge cases, such as a remote-support tool installed years ago or a legacy application kept alive because one report depends on it. Arctic Wolf’s 2026 threat report found 65% of intrusions outside email fraud began with abuse of remote access — RDP, VPN, or RMM tools — and its research vice-president Ismael Valenzuela describes attackers “logging in

THE NTK FILTER RANGE The kits draw on NTK’s filter range, which is engineered to meet or exceed originalequipment standards and designed for exact fitment. Oil filters are available in cartridge and spin-on designs, air filters in cylindrical and panel formats, cabin air filters in carbon and standard variants, and fuel filters in cartridge, in-line, and spin-on types. The correct kit for a given vehicle can be found through the NGK/NTK part finder. For more information, visit ngk.com.au/ partfinder

instead of breaking in, stealing data instead of encrypting it.” Storm fits that description: sample documents on the leak site, a two-week deadline, then the full dataset of customer, vehicle, invoice, and staff records. Three questions for your software and IT providers: is our platform cloud-hosted and patched by the vendor, or are we responsible for updates? Which remote-access tools can reach our systems, and are they current? And does our cyber insurance cover a breach that starts at a third party? A workshop on a current, vendor-maintained cloud platform with multifactor authentication on every login has already done most of the work.

INTRODUCING THE

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A premium, all-in-one offering for those who value quality, Our components are engineered for precision and reliability. convenience, and a professional finish. Everything you need for a Designed to meet vehicle-specific requirements, comprehensive service - plus the essentials to get the job done right. they ensure a perfect fit every time.

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YEARS OF THE

SHOCK SHOP 1 9 8 6 - 2026

SHOCK SHOP AT 40:

A NEW CHAPTER

FOR A NEW ZEALAND ICON FORTY YEARS AFTER THE SHOCK SHOP FIRST APPEARED ON THE NEW ZEALAND AUTOMOTIVE LANDSCAPE, BAPCOR NEW ZEALAND IS LAUNCHING AN EXCITING EVOLUTION OF ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S MOST RECOGNISED SPECIALIST BRANDS. For four decades, The Shock Shop has been synonymous with steering and suspension expertise in New Zealand. Now in 2026, as the brand celebrates its 40th anniversary, Bapcor is making a significant investment in its future. Expanding the concept, modernising the brand and building a whole new programme designed around the individual needs of today’s independent automotive workshops. The result is a completely revitalised version of The Shock Shop. A totally modern vehicle specialist network built around the core categories - steering, suspension, brakes, and batteries. All of this is backed by the impressive product range, technical expertise, distribution network and marketing resources of Bapcor New Zealand. Clearly this isn’t just slapping on a new logo and a fresh coat of paint. It represents a significant redevelopment of The Shock Shop programme and a long-term commitment from Bapcor to build a strong, relevant specialist network across New Zealand.

40 YEARS OF SPECIALIST KNOWLEDGE The Shock Shop has been a wellrespected part of New Zealand’s automotive aftermarket since 1986.

Over that time, vehicles have obviously changed dramatically. Suspension systems have become increasingly sophisticated, vehicle weights and performance have changed, the 4WD and towing markets have grown, and customers have become even more conscious of their vehicle’s safety, handling and ride quality. But what hasn’t changed is the need for skilled technicians and trusted advice.

BUILT AROUND THE INDEPENDENT WORKSHOP The programme provides a framework that allows strong independent businesses to benefit from being part of something much larger, and much better. The undeniable benefit is that members have access to a huge amount of support: • a strong, recognisable national brand • highly co-ordinated marketing • digital support • technical and product expertise • promotional activity • professional workshop branding And behind this sits something that’s difficult to replicate independently. The combined strength and capability of Bapcor’s New Zealand automotive businesses.

The objective isn’t to tell good workshops how to run their businesses. It’s to give good workshops more tools to help them grow.

MORE THAN SHOCK ABSORBERS One of the most important changes is the way The Shock Shop will present itself to the New Zealand public. The name carries enormous heritage in shock absorbers and suspension, but the capability of the modern network goes considerably further. The refreshed programme positions The Shock Shop as a destination for steering, suspension and brake work, supported by related services and specialist solutions that naturally sit around those categories. That can range from everyday replacement steering and suspension components through to shock absorbers, springs, bushes, brake components, wheel alignment and more specialised suspension applications. It also creates opportunities in areas that continue to grow in the New Zealand market, including 4WD suspension, towing and load-carrying solutions and performance upgrades.

For Kiwi motorists, the proposition is straightforward. When something affects the way your vehicle steers, stops or handles, The Shock Shop should be the first name that comes to mind.

BUILT ALONGSIDE WORKSHOPS, NOT JUST FOR THEM The redevelopment of The Shock Shop has been a substantial project. Considerable work has gone into every part of the programme, from its brand identity and product strategy through to digital capability, marketing, workshop presentation and the overall member proposition. But perhaps the most important thing is that the development process has involved existing Shock Shop members and automotive businesses. Their experience and input has made a massive difference in shaping what the next generation of the network should look like. And for the workshops that have already had an early look at what’s coming, the response has been strong.

THE FULL BACKING OF BAPCOR. The redevelopment of The Shock Shop reflects Bapcor’s continued commitment to the New Zealand automotive aftermarket. Independent workshops are operating in an increasingly complex environment. Vehicles are changing and customers are changing. But probably the biggest challenge is cost. The investment required across technology, marketing, training, digital capability and workshop presentation continues to go up and up. A strong network model allows independent businesses to retain what makes them successful locally, while accessing capabilities that can be difficult for an individual workshop to build alone. The Shock Shop has been designed with that reality in mind. Bapcor’s scale provides the network with significant automotive aftermarket capability behind it, while the workshop itself remains locally operated and focused on its own customers and community. It’s this combination that sits at the heart of the programme. National strength with local expertise.

For us its all about utilising the buying power, technological knowledge, extended product warranties, and access to quality products. Phil Glen Managing Director Kats Rolleston

A BRAND CUSTOMERS CAN SEE The refreshed identity for The Shock Shop will start appearing at workshops around New Zealand as the programme rolls out. The exciting new visual identity has been designed to be modern, highly visible and unmistakably automotive, while retaining a connection to a name New Zealanders have known for four decades. But the investment goes considerably further than signage. A new digital platform will help connect motorists with their local Shock Shop, while national marketing and promotional activity will build awareness of the wider steering, suspension and brake proposition. Members will also be supported with tools and campaigns to help them market their businesses locally. It means a national brand creates awareness while individual workshops deliver their local experience through existing relationships and goodwill. It’s a powerful combination.

SELECTIVE GROWTH ACROSS NEW ZEALAND Bapcor sees significant potential to grow The Shock Shop network, but the focus is firmly on finding the right workshops, rather than simply adding locations on a map.

COULD YOUR WORKSHOP BE A SHOCK SHOP?

That’s why the programme’s aimed at quality automotive businesses who share our focus on technical capability, customer service and professional standards. That could easily be an established steering and suspension specialist, a strong general mechanical repairer looking to develop these categories, or an automotive business wanting to create a clearer specialist point of difference in its local market. What matters most is the operator behind it. Bapcor New Zealand National Licensee Channel Manager, Kieran Anstis, has been closely involved as part of the team developing and bringing the refreshed Shock Shop programme to market. He says the focus throughout the project has been on creating genuine value for independent workshops. “There are some outstanding independent workshops throughout New Zealand. They already have the technicians, the customer relationships and the reputation in their local communities. We don’t want to change what makes those businesses successful. We want to put more behind them.” Anstis says a significant amount of work has gone into the programme across the wider Bapcor team. And while the programme has been heavily redeveloped, respecting the history of The Shock Shop has remained important.

We’ve put a huge amount of work into developing this programme. For us, it had to provide genuine value to the workshop. That means having the product, supply, marketing, technical support, digital capability and people behind the brand to help our members grow. Kieran Anstis Channel Manager Bapcor NZ

Bapcor New Zealand is speaking with selected automotive workshops across the country as the refreshed Shock Shop programme rolls out. If you operate a quality automotive workshop and you’d like to understand what being part of the Shock Shop network could mean for your business, contact: Kieran Anstis for a confidential discussion at: kieran.anstis@bapcor.com or by calling him on: 027 215 3096

Why workshops are switching to Hoist ​ UTO CHANNEL TALKS TO THE TEAM BEHIND HOIST, THE A NEW ZEALAND-BUILT PLATFORM THAT BRINGS JOB CARDS, INVOICING AND PAYMENTS INTO ONE SYSTEM, ABOUT THE GAP THEY SAW IN WORKSHOP SOFTWARE AND WHERE THEY PLAN TO TAKE IT NEXT

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oist is cloud-based workshopmanagement software built specifically for New Zealand automotive businesses. It brings job cards, vehicle and customer records, invoicing, payments and reminders into one system, accessible from a phone, tablet or desktop, and works alongside Xero for accounting and Carjam for vehicle lookups. The platform serves a wide range of workshop types, from general repairers and WoF stations to tyre shops, fleet operators, mobile mechanics, and specialists in diesel, hybrid, EV, transmission and marine work. It’s priced at $140 a month plus GST for three users, and offers a 14-day free trial with no credit card required to start. Auto Channel asked the team at Hoist how the platform came about, what sets it apart, and where it is headed next.

HOIST WORKSHOP MANAGEMENT APP FEATURES The native Hoist app for iOS and Android devices allows your team to create and update jobs, add parts, update progress at the vehicle, check the day’s schedule, clock on and off, and more right from the floor. No desktop needed.

What convinced you there was room for another workshop-management platform in New Zealand? What were you hearing from mechanics and workshop owners about the shortcomings of existing systems that made you think, ‘We can do this better’? Before Hoist, we had a side hustle hosting websites for friends in the automotive industry. Through those conversations, we kept hearing how few options were built specifically for how Kiwi workshops actually operate. Curious, Alex started researching and began building Hoist after work as a personal project. Word spread, and emails started coming in, one after another, from workshop owners who saw the same gap. That’s when we realised Hoist had real potential. Earlier this year, we both took the leap to pursue Hoist full time, and since then we’ve developed so much passion and drive for helping Kiwi workshop owners who’ve taken that same leap themselves.

HoistPay: More ways to get paid, less friction, instant reconciliation.

Hoist is entering a market with established workshop-software providers already serving New Zealand. What is your genuine point of difference? Beyond being newer or easier to use, what can a workshop do with Hoist that it can’t do as effectively with the alternatives?

Jess (left) and Alex (right), founders of Hoist

Tell us about the people behind Hoist. What are your respective backgrounds, and how did your experience in technology, business, and the automotive sector shape the product you’re building? Alex is a self-proclaimed nerd with a background in software engineering for the defence force and medical sectors, work that demanded precision and reliability, which carried straight over into how he approaches Hoist. When he’s not coding, you’ll find him offroading, usually covered in mud by the end of it. When we first started dating, we skipped the romance and jumped straight to his garage to engine-swap his Patrol. Jess has a background in healthcare and admin: two very different worlds, but both taught us the same thing: good systems make good businesses. That’s the lens we bring to Hoist.

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Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

We had a lot planned for Hoist, but first we had to lay the foundation, and that meant not just building something that looked like what’s already out there, but something genuinely better and worth moving across to. That came from countless hours of conversations with workshop owners and techs, battle-testing different ways of doing the same things until we cracked it. Deferred work is one example: a customer declines something on the day, and instead of it becoming a note nobody sees again, it stays against the vehicle, priced and ready to go, so it’s front of mind next time they’re in. That means more jobs out the door. Custom reminders are another; you can set one for anything you want. And our online bookings can confirm themselves, which means less admin. We’re also competitively priced with full feature access, so you’re getting premium software without paying extra to unlock the parts you actually need. What’s great is we’re only just getting started. There are some things in the pipeline we can’t share yet, but they’ll build directly on this foundation, and we think they’ll be a genuine step change for the industry.

Technician App: On the road or in the shop, Hoist’s mobile app keeps your team and customers connected.

You’ve taken a deliberately NZ-focused approach, including integrations such as Carjam and Xero, and support for the way Kiwi workshops operate. How important is that local focus to your strategy? And do you see Hoist remaining primarily a New Zealand product, or is there international ambition? We’re a homegrown Kiwi company, and our main goal is to serve Aotearoa first. For years, the software available to workshops here was built for someone else’s market first: different compliance requirements, different customer behaviour, different tools. Our mission is to help Kiwi owners make a real difference, in their own business and in New Zealand’s economy. Expanding overseas is something we’ve considered, but for now our focus stays firmly at home, making sure Kiwi businesses are served properly. For a busy workshop owner, the big question is: ‘What’s in it for me?’ Where do you believe Hoist can deliver the biggest practical gains — saving admin time, improving technician productivity, increasing bay utilisation, lifting margins, improving customer retention, or something else? Saving time is a good start, but it’s not where the real upside is. The bigger opportunity sits in the data a workshop’s system is already collecting every day: every job, every declined repair, every customer who hasn’t been back in eighteen months. It’s all there; it just never gets turned into anything an owner can act on. That’s what we’re building toward. Beyond the basic functionality of workshop software, our mission is to put that data to work for owners, so they get a real read on their business and can make decisions on numbers instead of gut feel. We researched the automotive industry extensively — owners, technicians, and their customers — and paired that with what’s already sitting in a workshop’s own system. That’s where we think owners will see the biggest difference in customer satisfaction, job optimisation, and revenue growth.

Price Matrix: No more guesswork. Hoist’s price matrix keeps every job profitable.

Service reminder/deferred work: From automated reminders to unbooked jobs, Hoist makes sure nothing gets missed.

Switching workshop-management systems can be a major headache. How have you approached migration and onboarding, and what would you say to a workshop owner who is interested in Hoist but reluctant to disrupt a system they’ve used for years? We get it — changing systems you’ve relied on for years brings real uncertainty. So we’ve taken a hands-on approach: free data migration, live demos and training, and an open-door policy. Our support is local too, and usually responds within minutes, so we do everything we can to make the transition smooth. We’re also proud to partner with Blackfern, which shares our mission of supporting Kiwis. To make things more exciting, any Blackfern member who signs up with Hoist in October is entered into the draw for 10,000 Blackfern points.

Additional work approval: Send estimates, or keep the job moving with quick approvals customers can action right from their phones

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You’re still early in the company’s journey. What’s next for Hoist? Which capabilities, integrations, or developments are you prioritising over the next 12–24 months? In a way, we’re lucky to be at this stage. We get to start with a blank canvas and reinvent software for the future of automotive workshops. Our team is lean and energetic, which means we move fast and keep improving continuously. Our mobile app launches this month, alongside partnerships with major New Zealand suppliers and some new technologies we’re genuinely excited about. Hoist is a real passion for us, and the industry keeps evolving, so we don’t think it’ll ever be ‘finished’. We’ll keep listening to workshops and building what they need next. Finally, what do you think the automotive workshop of the future looks like, and what role do you want Hoist to play in getting New Zealand’s independent repairers there?

SMS text box: Automated and custom reminders for any job, plus in-app messaging with zero setup fees.

HOIST WORKSHOP MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE INTERFACE FEATURES

It’s hard to predict exactly what the sector looks like in ten years, but for us it’s about giving workshops the tools to be resilient for whatever comes. As the next generation of techs comes through, digital is more native to how they work, so we expect to see less paper and more automation over time. For now, though, we’ve left that choice up to workshops and support both digital and paper job cards. For a free trial, visit hoist.nz Invoice: Bookings, jobs and invoices all sorted in Hoist with 2 way sync to Xero. Customise invoices to suit your customers.

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Customer profile

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All reports

Work orders

Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

Star Insure launches a free accident app for every motorist ​ HE APP WALKS A DRIVER THROUGH THE SCENE AND T CAPTURES THE OTHER PARTY’S DETAILS AND PHOTOS, AND IT IS FREE WHETHER OR NOT THEY HOLD A STAR INSURE POLICY

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tar Insure has released a free accident app for all New Zealand motorists, built to take the guesswork out of the minutes after a crash. It is available now on the App Store and Google Play, and you don’t need a Star Insure policy to use it. The app does two jobs. First, it gives the driver a clear, step-by-step guide to what to do and check at the scene. Second, a built-in capture tool records the third party’s details, scene photos, and the essential data that is easy to forget before everyone drives away. The summary can be saved, emailed, downloaded as a PDF, or sent straight to Star Insure if the driver is a customer, so the information a claim depends on is in hand from the start. “When you have just been in a ding or a serious collision, your adrenaline is pumping. Remembering what details to swap or what photos to take is tough,” says Roger Wallace, chief executive of Star Insure. “This app brings calm and clarity to the chaos, ensuring you

capture exactly what you need to make the claims process completely hassle-free.” For the trade, the app is a useful thing to put in front of customers. A driver who arrives at a panel shop or dealership with the other party’s details, registration, and a set of scene photos already recorded is a far easier claim to progress than one working from memory, and the app is free to recommend. The launch sits alongside Star Insure’s involvement with Street Smart, the young-driver training programme. Gabrielle Byfield, general manager marketing and communications, says the two go together. “The best part about this tool is that it is available to every single motorist on New Zealand roads at absolutely no cost, regardless of whether they are a Star Insure customer,” she says. “Through our association with the Street Smart programme, we are equipping young drivers with practical, hands-on skills. Now, with this free app, we are giving them — and their families — an extra

Kumho EV bus tyre goes on trial in New Zealand ​ LAIRS IS RUNNING THE KCA31 ON A LOCAL ELECTRIC BUS B FLEET, WITH KUMHO ENGINEERS FLYING IN TO OVERSEE THE FIT AND A THREE-FOLD TYRE-LIFE GAP TO CLOSE

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umho Australia managing director Yoon Hong Kim and head-office engineer Hyungwoo Kim have been in New Zealand to oversee the installation of a trial set of Kumho KCA31 EV bus tyres, in a programme run with Kumho’s New Zealand distributor, Blairs Supertyre Distributors. The trial addresses a straightforward problem. An electric bus keeps its tyres under load in both directions — under the torque of the electric motors on acceleration and again under regenerative braking — and the bus itself weighs considerably more than its diesel equivalent. As a result, a standard bus tyre wears much faster. Where a diesel bus might see around 120,000km from a tyre, Blairs says an EV bus running the same tyre may manage only about 40,000km. The KCA31, sold in Europe as the K E-City CA31 and launched in August 2025, is built for the start-stop duty of an urban electric bus. Its compound is formulated for low rolling resistance, which on an EV translates directly into energy consumption and range as well as mileage. A three-by-five rib tread pattern is

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Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

designed for traction and stability under the constant load cycling of electric drive, and the casing is reinforced through the sidewalls and centre ribs to carry the extra battery weight and resist the scrubbing that kerbs and tight urban routes impose. A sidewall wear indicator, specific to bus use, gives operators a quick check on kerb-strike and scuff damage. The tyre is also rated for diesel and hybrid buses, so a mixed fleet can standardise on it. The first size to market, and the one on trial here, is 275/70R22.5 with a 152/149J load and speed rating; 315/60R22.5 and 265/70R19.5 sizes are to follow. The KCA31 extends into commercial fleets the approach Kumho has taken across its passenger EV range, which Blairs also distributes: the ECSTA PS71 EV, CRUGEN HP71 EV, and SOLUS HS63 EV, plus the EVcompatible ECSTA PS72 SPORT. All share reinforced construction for battery weight, compounds tuned for instant torque, low rolling resistance, and noise reduction through tread design and, on the passenger tyres, K-Silent foam.

layer of reassurance should the unexpected happen.” Star Insure is Kiwi-owned and locally operated, backed by Berkshire Hathaway, and specialises in daily drivers, classic cars, motorcycles, and motorhomes. “We understand the true value of the vehicles you are protecting, whether it is your daily driver, a classic car, or your teen’s first runabout,” Wallace adds. “Our expert team is always here to champion your best interests, and this app is the ultimate tool to help us do exactly that.” The insurer is urging all motorists, especially newly licensed drivers, to keep it in their digital glovebox. For more information, visit starinsure.co.nz

Blairs will monitor the trial set’s performance against the fleet’s existing tyres. The aim is to show that a tyre designed for the application delivers a lower cost per kilometre and better overall performance than a conventional bus tyre pressed into EV service. For more information, visit blairs.co.nz

WHEEL HUBS AND BEARINGS

BALL JOINTS

CRANKSHAFT PULLEYS / HARMONIC BALANCERS

TENSIONERS / IDLERS

RACK ENDS / MOUNTS

SRUT MOUNTS & BEARINGS

SUBFRAME / BODY MOUNTS

SILICONE HOSING / ALUMINUM PIPE

WHANGAREI . HENDERSON . PENROSE . HAMILTON . TAURANGA . PALMERSTON NORTH . LOWER HUTT . CHRISTCHURCH

Trailcom: More than just trailer parts ​ RAILCOM HAS SPENT FOUR DECADES BUILDING ITS T REPUTATION ON TRAILER PARTS — BUT THE COMPANY’S PORTFOLIO NOW SPANS TOWING, CARRYING, CARGO MANAGEMENT, AND VEHICLE PROTECTION

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hen many people think of Trailcom, they immediately associate the brand with high-quality trailer parts and towing components. While Trailcom has built a strong reputation as one of New Zealand’s leading trailer component suppliers, the business has evolved significantly to become a comprehensive provider of towing, carrying, and vehicle accessory solutions. For over 40 years, Trailcom has supported the New Zealand trailering market with a wide range of products designed to meet the needs of trailer manufacturers and repairers alike. Today, the company’s offering extends far beyond trailer parts, encompassing some of the industry’s most trusted brands. A cornerstone of the Trailcom portfolio is Hayman Reese, Australia’s most recognised towing brand. Trailcom manufactures, distributes, and supports a wide range of Hayman Reese towbars engineered to meet stringent safety and performance standards. From passenger vehicles and SUVs through

AutoChannel NZ Half Page Advert Nov 2025 OL.indd 1

to commercial applications, Hayman Reese products deliver the reliability and durability customers expect when towing caravans, trailers, boats, and recreational equipment. Trailcom is also the New Zealand distributor of Rola Roof Racks and Carrying Systems, providing practical transport solutions for tradespeople, adventurers, and families alike. The Rola range includes roof racks, roof trays, bike carriers, kayak carriers, and luggage solutions that maximise vehicle storage while maintaining ease of use and vehicle compatibility. As vehicle lifestyles continue to evolve, demand for versatile carrying solutions continues to grow, making Rola an increasingly important part of Trailcom’s offering. Safety remains a key focus for the business, with Trailcom also distributing Milford Cargo Barriers, a trusted name in occupant protection. Designed and tested to rigorous standards, Milford barriers provide critical protection by preventing cargo from entering the passenger compartment during sudden braking or collisions.

The range is particularly popular with fleet operators, tradespeople, and outdoor enthusiasts who regularly transport equipment and gear. Complementing the range are East Coast Bullbars, Australia’s leading manufacturer of premium alloy nudge bars and bull bars; Kaymar, with more than 30 years of experience manufacturing rear bars and wheel carriers for rugged touring and off-road applications; and Piak, offering an extensive range of bull bars, rear bars, side steps, and underbody protection systems for a wide variety of vehicles. By combining locally manufactured products with premium international brands, Trailcom has positioned itself as a one-stop supplier for towing, carrying, cargo management, and vehicle protection solutions. Supported by nationwide distribution, technical expertise, and strong aftermarket relationships, the company continues to invest in products that help customers get more from their vehicles. As the automotive market evolves, Trailcom’s commitment remains unchanged: delivering quality products, trusted brands, and innovative solutions that go well beyond trailer parts. For more information, call 0800 698 227

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Office Products Depot joins Blackfern ​​ NEARLY 2,000 MEMBERS CAN NOW BUY OFFICE AND WORKPLACE SUPPLIES ON THEIR BLACKFERN ACCOUNT AND EARN REWARDS POINTS ON THE WAY

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lackfern Co-operative has added Office Products Depot (OPD) to its supplier network, giving its nearly 2,000 members access to workplace, office, and business essentials through their Blackfern account. OPD is itself a co-operative, which Blackfern says makes it a natural partner for serving members. The arrangement is simple. Members can buy from OPD online or in-store, have the purchase billed directly to their Blackfern account, and earn Blackfern Rewards Points on eligible spend. For a business that already runs its parts and consumables through Blackfern, it brings one more category of everyday purchasing under the same account and the same rewards.

22 BRANCHES, ONE CATALOGUE OPD is a New Zealand-owned group of local dealerships that has been trading for more than 35 years, with 22 branches serving communities from Whangarei to Invercargill. Each branch has its own staff on hand to help with product requirements, backed by a nationwide network and an overnight delivery service.

The catalogue runs well past stationery. It covers postage and packaging, paper, writing and filing supplies, labels, printers and business machines, computer accessories, cafeteria and washroom supplies, cleaning products, health and safety equipment, office furniture, and storage — through to chairs, desks, tables, screens, and whiteboards for setting up a new workspace. For a workshop or automotive business, that means one convenient source for the items that keep the office side running: printer paper and filing, cleaning products, PPE, furniture, and computer accessories. OPD also supplies customised solutions to businesses in education, manufacturing and industrial, food service, and health and aged care, with account

managers who work through each customer’s requirements, compliance needs, and goals. Members wanting to buy greener can use OPD’s OPDeco programme, which identifies products that meet defined sustainability criteria — recycled content, compostable items, products recyclable in New Zealand, sustainably sourced fibre, and recognised environmental certifications — alongside OPD’s wider commitment to reducing environmental impact through its supply chain. Blackfern’s supplier network continues to grow month by month, and OPD adds a practical option that combines a broad product range with the purchasing convenience and rewards members already have. Members can browse the range at opd.co.nz or visit their local OPD store. For more information, visit blackfern.coop

that could confuse a camera. And it needs to be an area that can be kept clear — a bay used for something else between calibrations will not hold its setup, and re-establishing reference points every time destroys the economics of the job. The work is process-heavy. It rewards a repeatable routine — the same setup, the same sequence, the same checks — rather than treating each vehicle as a fresh problem. The practical implication is that you should design the workflow before choosing the equipment. Where do vehicles queue? Who does the setup? How long is a calibration blocking that bay, and what does that do to the rest of the day’s bookings? Answering those questions first often changes what a workshop decides to buy.

What it takes to bring ADAS calibration in-house

​ ALIBRATION WORK IS ARRIVING IN WORKSHOPS WHETHER OR C NOT THEY ARE SET UP FOR IT; THE EQUIPMENT IS RARELY THE HARD PART

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dvanced driver assistance systems are standard fitment across most new vehicles now, and they reach this market twice — once on new stock, and again a few years later through used imports. Those vehicles are ageing out of dealer networks and into general workshops. The cameras, radar units, and sensors the systems depend on are mounted to panels, screens, and suspension components that get disturbed during perfectly ordinary repairs. The calibration requirement follows the repair, not the other way round.

WHAT TRIGGERS A CALIBRATION Windscreen replacement is the obvious one, because the forward-facing camera usually sits behind the glass. The rest of the list is longer than most workshops expect. A wheel alignment changes the thrust line the systems reference. Suspension work or a ride-height change alters sensor aiming. Collision repair moves mounting points. Steering angle sensor work, and removal or replacement of bumpers, grilles, and mirrors, all disturb components the systems rely on. A workshop that has decided it does not do ADAS work can still find itself in the middle of an ADAS job after a routine alignment.

STATIC, DYNAMIC, OR BOTH Static calibration is done with the vehicle stationary, using targets set at manufacturerspecified distances and positions in a controlled space. Dynamic calibration is done on the road, with the vehicle driven at a set speed under

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Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

conditions the system will accept — clear lane markings, adequate light, no heavy rain. Many vehicles need both, in a specific order, and the procedure varies by manufacturer and model rather than following a general rule. The dynamic requirement is worth thinking through before committing to the work, because it depends on suitable road within reach and cooperative weather. That is a scheduling constraint, not a footnote. Strip away the differences between systems and a calibration setup does three things. It positions targets accurately relative to the vehicle, usually through a frame with wheel clamps or a measuring system that establishes the vehicle’s centreline and thrust line. It presents the correct target for the vehicle in front of you, which is as much a coverage and software question as a hardware one. It also communicates with the vehicle, runs the manufacturer’s calibration routine, and confirms it has completed. A workshop already running a capable scan tool has part of that third element covered — the first two are the new spend.

FINDING THE RIGHT SPACE IS THE HARD PART Most workshops looking at this focus on the equipment. In practice, the calibration bay is the harder problem. Static work needs a level floor, enough clear area to position targets at the specified distances with the vehicle centred, and clearance all round it. It needs consistent lighting, without direct sun, shadows falling across targets, or nearby reflective surfaces

TRAINING AND SUPPORT The other half of it is people. Calibration is unforgiving of guesswork, and the difference between a workshop that makes money on it and one that does not is usually confidence and throughput, not raw equipment capability. That comes from proper onboarding, someone to call when a procedure will not complete, and a clear path for software and vehicle coverage updates. Coverage is not static — new models arrive constantly, and a system that is not kept current quietly narrows the range of work the workshop can accept. Whatever else changes, build the documentation habit in from the start. A prerepair scan, a post-repair scan, and a record of the calibration completed give a clear account of the vehicle’s state when it arrived and what was done to it. That is useful to the customer, and it is the workshop’s own record of the job if a question comes up later.

WHEN SHOULD THE WORK GET SENT OUT? Not every workshop should bring this in-house, and there is nothing wrong with the alternative. Subletting to a specialist keeps the job and the customer relationship, while someone else carries the space and equipment cost. The case for doing it yourself rests on volume — enough calibrations a week to justify a bay that cannot be used for much else, plus the throughput gained by not sending vehicles across town mid-repair. Workshops that get this wrong usually buy the equipment first and work out the volume afterwards.

Flow is equally important. A filter must capture contaminants without unnecessarily restricting the movement of air, oil, or fuel. Ryco filters are engineered to support consistent flow, helping the engine and vehicle systems perform as intended.

CLEANER CABIN AIR

ELF: the Ryco approach to better filtration ​ FFICIENCY, LIFE, AND FLOW — THE THREE TESTS EVERY E RYCO AIR, OIL, FUEL, AND CABIN FILTER IS BUILT TO PASS FASTER ACCESS FOR SOUTH ISLAND WORKSHOPS

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or workshops, effective filtration means striking the right balance between protection, performance, and reliability. Ryco’s ELF philosophy — Efficiency, Life, and Flow — brings these priorities together across its range of air, oil, fuel, and cabin air filters. Efficiency is about capturing contaminants before they can cause damage or affect performance. Ryco filters are designed and tested to help remove dirt, dust, and other

harmful particles, supporting cleaner air, oil, and fuel throughout the vehicle. This filtration expertise is backed by testing in Ryco’s dedicated filtration laboratory in Melbourne. Life is about protecting the components that matter throughout the service interval. By controlling contaminants, Ryco filtration can help reduce wear and support engine longevity between services. For workshops, using a quality filter gives customers greater confidence that their vehicle is receiving dependable protection every visit.

PASSENGER PROTECTION WITH EXPERT FILTRATION A cleaner vehicle interior means cleaner breathing air. Protect customers and their passengers from inhaling allergens, pollen, fungus spores, dirt, and more, by using a Ryco Cabin Air Filter Proudly partnering:

RYC5292 RYC5458

The same ELF principles apply to cabin air filtration. An efficient cabin air filter helps capture pollen, dust, and other airborne particles before they circulate through the vehicle. Ryco N99 MicroShield Cabin Air Filters feature multi-layer media designed to capture fine airborne particles, with anti-bacterial and anti-viral agents designed to target bacteria and specific airborne viruses, including H1N1 and H3N2. Ryco states that its N99 media provides 99.7% efficiency at 0.3 micron. For mechanics, cabin filter replacement is also a straightforward service opportunity. On many vehicles, the filter can be changed in around 15 minutes, with replacement recommended every 15,000km or once a year, subject to manufacturer requirements and operating conditions. From engine protection to cleaner cabin air, Ryco ELF is filtration designed to deliver Efficiency, Life, and Flow where customers need it most. For more information or to find the correct filter, visit ryco.co.nz

MITO’s first industry summit and awards ​ UTOMOTIVE AND COLLISION REPAIR LEARNERS, A A COLLISION REPAIR STALWART, AND A $700,000 SCHOLARSHIP FUND HEADLINE THE INAUGURAL EVENT

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ITO held its inaugural Industry Summit and Awards at Wellington’s Michael Fowler Centre on 1 September, drawing more than 200 people from industry, government, education, and MITO’s employer and learner communities. Hon Shane Jones gave the keynote, and Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour opened the awards. The biggest news for employers came from the Inspiring Futures Foundation. Trustee Lee Marshall announced that the IFF will fully fund

Jay Halliday accepted the Learner of the Year – Automotive award on behalf of his son Reuben, presented by MITO Board Director Jason Land and MITO Chairperson Sturrock Saunders

the 2027 MITO Scholarship Programme with a $700,000 grant over two years — a substantial increase that allows the programme to expand while cost pressures are weighing on training decisions. “Each scholarship removes or reduces a barrier to the next generation entering the workforce — and that’s exactly what the IFF exists to do,” Marshall said.

AUTOMOTIVE WINNERS Reuben Halliday of Terra Cat NZ was named Learner of the Year – Automotive. While completing his Level 3 and Level 4 MITO qualifications, he maintained heavy equipment in Antarctica for the United States Antarctic Program. Jet Te Aho took Learner of the Year – Collision Repair after completing his apprenticeship and continuing into Level 5 structural repair training. AMI Motorhub won Inclusive Training Business of the Year for pathways that have brought young people, Māori learners, women, neurodiverse students, and migrants into automotive apprenticeships. The Tranzit Group, which registered its first MITO learner in 1993

Bob Boniface was presented with the MITO Chairperson’s Award by Sturrock Saunders, MITO Chairperson, and Warren Flowerday, Deputy Chairperson and has 20 staff in training across heavy automotive, road transport, and EV technology, was Training Business of the Year. Ashburton College took Secondary School of the Year, with its automotive students achieving near-100% pass rates in MITO’s StartUp micro-credentials. Two long-serving industry figures were also recognised. Bob Boniface, owner of Auckland Panel and Paint Group and a former MTA president and chair, received the Chairperson’s Award for more than 60 years of contribution across business, governance, and the Collision Repair Association. Dave Pardoe received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Industry Training for over five decades in forestry, transport, and vocational training.

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AUTO UPDATE

Nissan confirms all-new Patrol range for NZ ​​ FOUR GRADES, A TWIN-TURBO V6, AND A 3,700KG TOW RATING; FIRST CUSTOMER DELIVERIES ARE DUE EARLY 2027

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issan New Zealand announced pricing and specifications for the all-new Y63 Patrol in early September, opening a four-grade range at $120,990 plus on-road costs. That is $2,000 more than the outgoing Y62, and every variant brings a more powerful engine, more standard equipment, and a braked towing capacity of 3,700kg. Order books are open, with the first customer deliveries scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.

V6 REPLACES THE V8 The headline change is under the bonnet. The Y62’s 5.6-litre naturally aspirated V8 gives way to a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 317kW and 700Nm — 6% more power and 25% more torque than the outgoing V8’s 298kW and 560Nm. It drives through a nine-speed automatic in place of the previous seven-speed, with full-time 4WD, a 4H/4L transfer case, an electronic locking rear differential, and eight terrain modes. “For decades the Patrol has been a symbol of go-anywhere capability and trust, and it holds a special place with Kiwi customers. The all-new Y63 Patrol honours that heritage while taking a significant leap forward. More powerful, more polished and more capable than ever before, we can’t wait to put it in our customers’ hands early next year,” said Steve Milette, Managing Director, Nissan Oceania.

FOUR GRADES, EIGHT SEATS All four grades seat eight and share the redesigned cabin, headed by Nissan’s widescreen Monolith dual display. The Y63 is the first Nissan sold here with Google built-in and Google Gemini AI, working with NissanConnect connected services. Standard equipment across the range also includes a 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor with an ‘invisible hood’ view, tri-zone climate control, trailer blind spot warning, and ProPILOT driver assistance. The entry Ti is $120,990. The Ti-L, at $136,490, adds 14.3-inch displays, a 12-speaker Klipsch audio system, a head-up display, Intelligent Dynamic Damping suspension, 20-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a power tailgate, and roof rails. The PRO-4X, at $145,990, is the first Patrol of its kind offered in New Zealand. It pairs Adaptive Air Suspension with all-terrain tyres, a rugged front bumper, and wheel arch mouldings, and adds heated and ventilated front seats and Nissan’s Biometric Cooling system. The Ti-L Reserve tops the range at $150,490 with Adaptive Air Suspension, 22-inch wheels, dual rear entertainment screens, massage seats, multi-colour ambient lighting, and leatheraccented trim.

SPACE, CARGO, AND TOWING Cabin packaging was a focus of the redesign. Front and second-row seats use a new ‘Zero Gravity’ structure with high-damping foam to take the edge off corrugated roads, and all grades gain hip, shoulder, and legroom along with a higher driver eyeline. The second row now slides, giving up to 250mm more legroom than the Y62 in its rearmost position, and a tilt-

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and-glide function replaces the old tumble seat so the third row can be reached with a child seat still fitted. Third-row occupants get 75mm more hip room, 66mm more knee room, and a flatter floor. Cargo space is up at every configuration: 577 litres behind the third row, 1,594 litres with it folded, and 2,749 litres with both rear rows down — gains of 110, 181, and 127 litres respectively over the Y62, with a near-flat floor when folded. The PRO-4X and Ti-L Reserve, which have Adaptive Air Suspension, can be lowered to ease loading. The 3,700kg braked rating is a 200kg increase over the Y62 and applies across the range, with a tow-tongue and tow-ball configuration supporting the full figure offered as an accessory. Trailer Sway Control and Trailer Blind Spot Warning are standard on every grade, and the PRO-4X and Ti-L Reserve add Trailer Docking Support, which helps line the tow bar up with the coupling, plus an electric trailer brake controller.

WARRANTY AND SERVICING The Y63 is covered by Nissan’s 10-year/300,000km MORE warranty, with roadside assistance for up to the same period. Servicing is due every 12 months or 15,000km, with a flat rate of $599 per service for the first five years.

AUTO UPDATE

BAIC adds a rangeextender hybrid to the X55 ​​​ TWO X55 HYBRID GRADES JOIN THE B30 HYBRIDS IN DEALERSHIPS NOW, WITH THE ENGINE AS A GENERATOR AND 5.8L/100KM COMBINED HOW THE POWERTRAIN WORKS

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AIC calls the system RE-HEV, and it is a series hybrid in the range-extender mould rather than a parallel hybrid. The wheels are driven by a 160kW electric motor producing 310Nm, through a single-speed drive. At low and medium speeds the battery — a ternary lithium unit — supplies the motor, with energy recovered under coasting and braking. At higher speeds the 1.5-litre variablevalve-timing petrol engine, rated at 77kW and 132Nm, runs as a generator to power the motor and recharge the battery; it does not drive the wheels directly. The result is immediate torque from a standstill and a quieter cabin in town, with no external charging. BAIC quotes combined fuel consumption of 5.8L/100km, 0–100km/h in 8.3 seconds, and Euro VI emissions compliance. Drive is to the front wheels. For comparison, the petrol X55 uses a 1.5-litre turbo engine with 138kW and 305Nm through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, with a 0–100km/h time of 7.8 seconds.

SPECIFICATION Both hybrid grades are based on the petrol X55 Premium Plus specification. Suspension is MacPherson strut at the front and multi-link independent at the rear, matching the petrol car. Driver assistance includes Emergency

Brake Assist, ABS with EBD, and electronic stability control, and the X55 range carries six airbags, adaptive cruise control, and blindspot detection. Inside, the hybrid has a 12.3inch central touchscreen and a 10.25-inch LCD instrument display, with wireless Apple CarPlay, climate control, and electric seats across the X55 range. The panoramic sunroof is not fitted to the Elite Hybrid.

version of the current petrol X55. It represents a significant step forward in driving refinement, efficiency and technology, offering customers a premium hybrid SUV that combines strong performance with excellent fuel economy.”

THE NETWORK The X55 Hybrid is available to test drive now. BAIC’s dealer network, run through Armstrong’s Automotive and Auto Distributors New Zealand, grew to 14 locations at the start of September with the addition of Hawke’s Bay, Palmerston North, Rotorua, and West Auckland. “With hybrid power now available across two key model lines, BAIC is continuing to build a range that meets the changing needs of New Zealand motorists,” Guo said. “Combined with our seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty and highly competitive introductory pricing, the X55 Hybrid offers one of the strongest value propositions in the medium SUV segment.”

PRICING AND WARRANTY Launch pricing is $40,990 plus on-road costs for the Elite Hybrid, a $2,000 saving on its $42,990 recommended retail price, and $42,990 plus on-road costs for the Premium Hybrid, also $2,000 under its $44,990 RRP. The introductory offer is for a limited time. Like every BAIC sold here, the X55 Hybrid comes with a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and seven years of roadside assistance. “The arrival of the X55 Hybrid represents another important step in BAIC’s growth strategy and is a significant addition to our New Zealand line-up,” said Shiguang Guo, general manager of BAIC New Zealand. “More Kiwi drivers are looking for vehicles that deliver lower fuel consumption without compromising on performance, comfort or equipment. The X55 Hybrid achieves exactly that, while continuing BAIC’s reputation for exceptional value and premium specification.” “The X55 RE-HEV is more than just a hybrid

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AUTO UPDATE rear outboard seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, dual Qi wireless chargers, multi-colour ambient lighting, and self-levelling LED headlights. The Touring adds 20-inch alloys, leatheraccented trim in blue and black, ventilated front seats, driver seat and mirror memory, auto-dipping mirrors, a panoramic glass roof with electric sunshade, Advanced Park Assist with four cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon system with subwoofer, and a 220V/1,500W vehicle-to-load outlet.

Subaru’s first EV arrives in two variants

​ HE TRAILSEEKER AWD JOINS THE TOURING FROM OCTOBER, T WITH 533KM OF RANGE AND SUBARU’S QUICKEST 0–100KM/H YET

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ubaru New Zealand has added a second, lower-priced variant to its first electric vehicle before the first cars have arrived. The Trailseeker AWD, at $68,990 RRP, will launch alongside the Trailseeker AWD Touring at $72,490 RRP, with stock due from October. Both prices include GST and exclude on-road costs. The first allocation sold out before local pricing was confirmed, and Inchcape New Zealand, Subaru’s distributor, says allocation remains limited.

Control for low-traction surfaces, a Multi-Terrain Monitor, and 211mm of ground clearance at kerb weight.

SPECIFICATION

POWERTRAIN AND RANGE Both variants share a 74.7kWh CATL lithiumion battery and dual motors producing 280kW combined, for a 0–100km/h time of about 4.5 seconds — the quickest production Subaru sold in New Zealand. WLTP range is up to 533km for the AWD on 18-inch wheels and up to 488km for the Touring on 20s. DC fast charging at up to 150kW takes the battery from 10 to 80% in about 30 minutes; a 2kW AC charging cable with a 10A wall plug is supplied. The car sits on the e-Subaru Global Platform with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Driving Trajectory Prediction Control that pre-positions torque before the car deviates from the driver’s intended line, Dual-Mode X-Mode with Grip

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The AWD comes with 18-inch alloys, black synthetic leather trim, a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch LCD instrument display, six-speaker audio, a digital rear-view mirror, eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated front and

SPACE AND SAFETY The flat-floor platform gives a level cargo area of 609 litres in the AWD and 595 litres in the Touring, behind a hands-free power tailgate with kick sensor. Integrated roof rails are standard. Subaru Safety Sense is standard on both, with Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Emergency Driving Stop System, Emergency Steering Assist, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, LowSpeed Acceleration Suppression, and Road Sign Assist. A camera-based Driver Monitor System provides distraction and drowsiness warnings, and the Vision Assist suite adds Adaptive High-Beam, Blind Spot Monitor, Panoramic 360-degree View Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Safe Exit Assist. “It is a real coup for us to be receiving the Trailseeker AWD, with up to 533km of WLTP range and a strong price point, especially compared with competitor EVs,” says Inchcape New Zealand General Manager Paul Mallard. “Allocation is limited, so customers interested in the Subaru Trailseeker are encouraged to contact their local Subaru Authorised Centre to learn more about future availability and register their interest.”

AUTO UPDATE

Bronco Basecamp confirmed for New Zealand in 2027

​ ORD’S FIRST ELECTRIFIED BRONCO IS A RANGEF EXTENDER SUV BUILT BY JMC IN CHINA, WITH A POP-UP ROOF AND A COMBINED RANGE OF UP TO 900KM

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ord has confirmed the Bronco Basecamp for Australia and New Zealand in the second half of 2027, with local specification, variants, pricing, and dates to follow. Registrations of interest are open at ford.co.nz/keep-me-informed. Like the Transit City van, it will be built by JMC in Nanchang, China, and it is the first electrified Bronco in

any market. Ford calls the powertrain a super hybrid; it is a series range-extender. Twin electric motors drive all four wheels, with Chinesemarket figures of 130kW at the front and 180kW at the rear, fed by a 49kWh usable lithium iron phosphate battery on an 800-volt architecture. A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine of

Ford’s electric Transit City van due in January

​ SINGLE-SPEC, JMC-BUILT CITY VAN WITH A 56KWH LFP A BATTERY AND 254KM OF WLTP RANGE, PRICED AT $58,990 PLUS ON-ROAD COSTS

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ord has revealed the all-electric Transit City for Australia and New Zealand, with New Zealand deliveries from January 2027 at $58,990 plus on-road costs. It comes in one specification — no wheelbase, roof height, or trim choices — and is built by JMC, Ford’s Chinese joint-venture partner, which has made Transits in China for more than 30 years. It is the first China-sourced Ford to be sold here. A 110kW motor drives the front wheels from

a 56kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. Range is up to 254km on the WLTP combined cycle and up to 380km on the city cycle. DC charging peaks at 87kW, taking the pack from 10 to 80% in about 33 minutes, and a 10-minute top-up adds up to 68km. The 11kW onboard AC charger does 10 to 100% in about 5.5 hours. The charge port is in the nose, and Pro Power Onboard lets tools run from the battery. Payload is up to 1,085kg and the 6.4 cubic

110kW acts purely as a generator and never drives the wheels. Preliminary WLTP estimates put combined range at 800 to 900km, with more than 100km on electricity alone, and DC charging runs to 90kW. The Basecamp is a monocoque rather than a ladder-frame truck, and the outdoor kit is the point. Outer Banks variants get an electrically operated pop-up roof that turns the cabin into a sleeping space, with an optional full-length inflatable mattress, a 7.5-litre warm-or-cool storage console, and a rear-mounted fold-down table with power. Pro Power Onboard delivers 6.6kW from an exterior adapter and 2.3kW inside. Chinese specification lists the vehicle at 5,025mm long, 1,960mm wide, and 1,825mm tall on a 2,950mm wheelbase, at 2,510kg. Ford has confirmed towing, but for lighter loads such as camper trailers and jet skis; front and rear diff locks are fitted in China and unconfirmed locally. Suspension, drive modes, generator software, and driver-assistance calibration are being developed in Australia with a five-star ANCAP rating in view. “Outdoor life here isn’t a trend, it’s just life. Bronco Basecamp was almost purpose-built for these customers,” said Ford Australia marketing director Ambrose Henderson. Ford New Zealand managing director Annaliese Atina said the decision was demand-led: “We don’t need to bring them in to hit a target. We bring products in that consumers want.”

metre cargo area takes three Euro pallets, with a full-surface load liner, half-height side protection, and tie-down points. The van is not rated to tow. Standard equipment includes keyless entry and push-button start, a heated driver’s seat, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and lane departure warning. High-voltage components are covered for eight years or 160,000km, and service intervals are 12 months or 30,000km. In Australia the van carries a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre general warranty and is priced at A$50,000 drive-away, with deliveries from November. “Transit City gives businesses a straightforward, well-equipped van that’s ready to work,” said Ford New Zealand managing director Annaliese Atina. Fadi Mawal, president and chief executive of Ford Australia and New Zealand, described it as “a new way of thinking about commercial vehicles for Australian and Kiwi businesses.”

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REDARC slims down its REDLAB lithium battery ​ HE NEW ICON SLIM RANGE PUTS 100AH OR 200AH OF T LIFEPO4 CAPACITY INTO A CASE AS THIN AS 62MM, BUILT FOR CANOPY WALLS, UNDERFLOOR BAYS, AND BEHINDSEAT FITS

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EDARC has added a slimline variant to its REDLAB lithium range. The REDLAB Icon Slim is aimed at the installs where a conventional battery box will not go — behind a seat, under a floor, inside a canopy wall — and comes in two sizes: a 100Ah model (LBATS12100) that is 62mm thick, and a 200Ah model (LBATS12200) at 83mm. The 100Ah measures 525 x 300mm on its face and weighs 16kg; the 200Ah is 610 x 470mm and 34kg. Both are available now. The cells are lithium iron phosphate, rated for more than 6,000 charge cycles — REDARC puts that at a cycle a day for 16 years — and the batteries carry a five-year warranty covering both work and recreational use. Built-in heating pads let them charge and discharge in temperatures down to –20°C, and they can be connected in series or parallel. REDARC pairs the 100Ah with inverters up to 1,200W and the 200Ah with up to 2,000W, enough for fridges, lighting, and power tools on a work or touring build. Monitoring is handled two ways. An

integrated LED gauge on the case shows state of charge at a glance, and the batteries are RedVision-enabled, so battery level, voltage, current, and temperature can be read from a connected phone through the RedVision app over Bluetooth. R-Bus connectivity ties them into the wider REDARC system, including RS3 inverters. For the installer, the mounting brackets in the box allow a range of orientations, there is a dual powerbutton design, and a one-metre remote on/ off switch cable is included. A Battery-RBUS Communications (Extended) Kit (BATWK-003) and a right-angled cable kit (BATWK-004) are available separately. The batteries are tested at REDARC’s Lonsdale, South Australia, facility, with vibration, heat, and durability programmes simulating years of use, and are backed by the company’s Australia-based support team. “Through conversations with customers, one need kept coming up: as touring and work builds take on more appliances, equipment and devices, available space is becoming harder to

Autoblast: rust protection from the yard to the restoration bay FROM PRE-DELIVERY UNDERBODY TREATMENT TO BAREMETAL BLASTING AND GALVANISING, THE AUCKLAND SPECIALIST COVERS THE WHOLE CORROSION JOB

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ust is usually associated with old cars, but in New Zealand’s humid, coastal conditions it can start on a new vehicle before its first service. Overnight condensation and salt-laden air are enough to begin the process on stock sitting in a dealership yard, and vehicles that tow boats or jet skis can show visible corrosion within months of purchase. David Kirkham, director of Autoblast, sees the pattern often enough that more dealerships now treat new inventory before it goes out the door. Importers face the same exposure earlier still. Vehicles shipped by sea arrive having sat in salt air and marine conditions, and early

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surface oxidation follows quickly if nothing is done. Most panel shops concentrate on exterior refinishing; Autoblast fills the gap with underbody protection that slots into pre-delivery workflows, plus a new-vehicle rust-correction service that deals with early discolouration or surface rust before a car reaches the showroom floor.

THE AUTOLAST SYSTEM Autoblast’s core product is the AutoLAST System, a structured rust-prevention process built on thorough surface preparation followed by a five-part coating system. It is designed to outlast conventional oil- or wax-based

find. They need a power system small enough to be installed out of sight, without sacrificing capacity and capability to keep everything running,” said Dylan Pinkard, senior product manager at REDARC. “By combining highquality cells and integrated battery monitoring in a slim form factor, they deliver reliable power where standard batteries cannot fit.” Full specifications are at redarcelectronics. com/redlab

underbody treatments and to leave a cleaner finish. Cavity waxing extends the protection inside accessible chassis rails. The work is done at an expanded Auckland facility with five dedicated service bays, two downdraught spray booths, and heavy-duty hoists — a controlled environment suited to high-volume commercial work. Commercial fleets, including port companies running vehicles in corrosive conditions, make up a significant part of the client base alongside private owners and dealers.

BLASTING AND GALVANISING At the other end of a vehicle’s life, Autoblast has more than 22 years of restoration blasting behind it. Shells are stripped to bare white metal by abrasive blasting — low pressure, acute angles, and constant surface movement keep delicate panels from warping — then dusted with an industrial-scale duster before coating, because oxidation starts the moment blasting finishes. Optionally, the shell or underbody are arcsprayed with a 50/50 zinc-aluminium coating that effectively galvanises the steel and gives the first coat of paint something to soak into. Autoblast specifies 2K epoxy primer systems to suit the owner’s paint plan and how long the shell will sit before bodywork, and offers a free appraisal on any job. For more information, contact Autoblast on 09 443 6574 or visit autoblast.co.nz

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Connect with the Automotive Industry with Auto Channel If you want to connect with key players across New Zealand’s automotive sector, Auto Channel is your ideal platform. Backed by Via Media, an Auckland-based agency specialising in automotive marketing, we deliver targeted, high-impact campaigns that get results through our various media channels. Via Media offers a full range of services including content marketing, advertising, digital media buying, PR, market research, and cross-media creative. With deep industry knowledge and proven reach, we help brands stand out and succeed. Talk to us today about tailored marketing solutions and how we can support your business as a trusted external marketing partner.

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PRODUCT NEWS

Autop-Stenhoj Maestro 2.35 NxT two-post lift Automaster’s Autop-Stenhoj Maestro 2.35 NxT is an Italian-built, 3,500kg electromechanical two-post lift. A roller-bearing carriage gives smooth travel, and a cold-rolled spindle, driven by twin 2.8kW motors, is built for long service life. Electronic synchronisation compares impulses from each column to keep the carriages level, and the flat telescopic arms reach under low vehicles. The baseless design leaves the floor clear between the posts, and a full lift takes about 35 seconds on a 400V three-phase supply. Suits sedans, SUVs, utes, and vans. Contact Automaster at info@automaster.co.nz or 0800 214 604, or visit automaster.co.nz Autop-Stenhoj Maestro 2.35 NxT

Model 70 combination lamps Designed to fit the common industry footprints in the New Zealand market, the Model 70 lamps feature first-to-market features, which set them and the rest of the 70 series rear-combination lamps apart. The stop and reflector functions are consolidated in the centre of the lamp, providing more space for each function, and ensuring clearer signalling and safer driving. A signature tail light pipe provides a unique, visible, and safe tail function, plus a stylish appearance at night. They feature hardened acrylic lenses, ensuring protection against chemicals and are UV-resistant. For more information, search Model 70 combination lamps at bwinz.co.nz

Koni Heavy Track shock absorbers Koni Heavy Track shock absorbers are built for the on- and off-road work that pick-ups, 4x4s, and SUVs face. The range takes Koni’s proven damper technology and scales it up for larger vehicles, with each damper designed for its specific application. Rebound damping is adjustable, so the shocks can be tuned to suit the vehicle’s setup, delivering better handling and ride for heavy vehicles. Koni has tested and used the range in some of the world’s most extreme conditions to meet high demands for safety, stability, and road-holding grip. Heavy Track shocks are available through Mount Shop. For more information, visit mountshop.co.nz

Strada EE-62C two-post hoist The Strada EE-62C is a CE-certified, 4,200kg-capacity two-post hoist featuring ultra-low arms as standard and full 24V control. It can be configured symmetrically or asymmetrically without additional parts, and auxiliary post control allows full operation from either post. Automatic arm locks, mechanical safety latches, and restrictive valves provide double-redundant safety, while a pre-fixed hydraulic pressure system prevents overloading. For more information, visit stradalifts.co.nz or call 021 509 286

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Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

NTK Filter Kits NTK Filter Kits deliver a premium, all-in-one solution designed for seamless vehicle servicing. Engineered to meet strict vehicle-specific requirements, each kit bundles precision filtration components with essential service extras, including a sump plug washer, windscreen sticker, floor mat, and two nitrile gloves. By combining everything under a single part number, NTK simplifies maintenance routines and ensures a clean, professional finish every time. For more information, visit ngk.com.au/partfinder

Strada E25 two-post lift The E25 from Strada Lifts is a 5,000kg two-post hoist with a difference: its columns are fully independent, linked by Bluetooth rather than a cable or overhead bridge, and they correct any height difference between the posts automatically. Twin 3.5kW motors lift to a maximum of 2,000mm in about 25 seconds, and a 110mm minimum pad height suits low-slung vehicles. Width adjusts from 2,430mm to 3,130mm for a drive-through bay, with mechanical latches and anti-rupture valves on each column. It runs on 400V three-phase, carries a five-year warranty, and is priced from $9,900 plus GST installed. For more information, visit stradalifts.co.nz/e25

Nussbaum Smart Lift 2.35 SL DT The electromechanical Smart Lift 2.35 SL DT is Nussbaum’s answer for the price-conscious but demanding workshop. Its 3,500kg capacity and asymmetric double-telescopic arms handle everything from passenger cars to larger SUVs while keeping the cab and work area easy to reach, and an overall height of just 2,892mm suits low-ceiling workshops. A spindle and Nylatron carrying nut, backed by a safety nut with an easy visual wear check, does the lifting. Every column and arm is welded, shot-peened, and powder-coated in-house, and each lift is load-tested before shipping from Germany. For more information, visit hoistandgarage.co.nz or call 0800 436 436 Nussbaum Smart Lift 2.35 SL DT

Terrain Tamer Fortified Shock Absorber Terrain Tamer’s Fortified Shock Absorber moves beyond conventional twin-tube construction with a single-body monotube design built for serious load work. The 64mm bore increases oil volume for better thermal stability, while a free-floating piston separates the gas and oil chambers to prevent aeration and damping fade — a real problem on prolonged corrugated roads. A chrome-hardened shaft and induction-hardened piston rod handle side loads and high-speed impacts. Rated to five tonnes, the range covers Toyota Hilux (including GR Sport and Rogue), Land Cruiser 70/80 Series, and Nissan Patrol GQ/GU, with further applications in development. For more information, visit terraintamer.com

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a S ra ring UP di s, P at d L or iff Y s, s, en alt SE gi er RV ne na O IC co tor ils E m s, ,g C po br re O ne ake as N nt c e, S s, om co UM ba p ol A W tte on an B O rie en L t R , E Ra K s, ts t S r an gs SH tra , s cl , lu O ile fl ea b P rp ui ne ric C d, ar ts rs an O bu , c ts N lb SU ar , P SU s, flu ca PE M SP re , a AB sh Ti E ,a e L e N es irc ros ES bu rod SIO on ol sh s, N s ,a es ba A br , b ll j N as ea oin D AF iv rin ts ST es TE ,r E g , s, ac ER Au R sh k di M I oc en NG dr o, AR ks ds es pe K , s rf ET up or , p m AC W ai an C nt ce ES O /w p S D RK ra ar O ia S p, ts, RI g ha no HO dr bo ES nd sti P iv d el yk c E to s, Q in it ol ho U e s, s, is IP G sp ts M EN , ec e E N Au ER l ia ec T lis t to A t s ric en e L R er s, gi lec E vi po ne tr PA ce w i c re al IR eq er bu , c S W ui to ild lu ER pm ol IN tc V s , D h W S en s, su e IC in C t sp s, c E d m sc RE en yl irr re E sio ind or en N n, er s, s S co he w , c AN ip hi D W ol ad er p in s, H s, re G g E O E cu pa LA EM LS st irs SS om , s re re A pa p ND fit ide irs lac T m gl , c em Y en as R o t s, e n AU su nt, ES TO m ty Re ab re s R le s, s, fit su tora EFI in tin pp ti N ne g lie on ISH r t /b s, , sm E ub ala sp a R D es nc RI ra sh S in y V g, Au E pa rep in ai to TR te rs D ma A rs , a iff t IN ,p u er ic en s, RE ai tont b tia Tra P co od ls, ns AI rre y W fer R S he c E ct el ase RV io n be s, I ar M CE in an gs u , T als or , D qu S e Gs C ,C on V ve Ts rte , rs

PA R Be TS

Supplier directory

YOUR GUIDE TO NEW ZEALAND'S LEADING AUTOMOTIVE TRADE SUPPLIERS

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parts@1stautoparts.co.nz or 09 638 6439

 abdgroup.co.nz or 0800ABDGROUP

acdelco.co.nz

 aecs.co.nz or 0800 673 034 or sales@aecs.co.nz

 alleuroparts.co.nz or 0800 255 387 or parts@alleuroparts.co.nz

 ateco.co.nz or 09 979 8000

 automaster.co.nz or 0800 214 604

 autolign.co.nz or 09 574 2288

 bacsystems.com.au

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06 306 8446 or blackfern.coop

 tyreorder.co.nz or 0800 80 90 96

 bmw.co.nz or 0508 269 727

bntnz.co.nz or 09 414 3200

bridgestone.co.nz or 0800 802 080

capricorn.coop or 0800 401 444

0800 CASTROL (0800 227 876)

centurydistributors.co.nz

cyb.co.nz or 09 978 6666

chemz.co.nz or 06 877 9690

09 636 5428 or sales@clutchindustries.co.nz

cooldrive.co.nz or 0800 327 868

cool-safe.org.nz

crc.co.nz or 09 272 2700

dieseldistributors.co.nz or 09 265 0622

dtm.co.nz or 0800 621 233

07 850 5240

exedy.co.nz or 0800 425 882

eproducts.co.nz or 09 916 6750

0800 757 333 or fenixautoparts.co.nz

0800 465 855

ford.co.nz or 0800 367 369

fuchs.co.nz or 09 828 3255

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garageworkshop.co.nz or 03 244 0441

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gearwrench.co.nz

gmtradeparts.co.nz

The Auto Channel supplier directory is your easy reference for sourcing a range of automotive products and services.

PA R Be TS

a S ra ring UP di s, P at d L or iff Y s, s, en alt SE gi er RV ne na O IC co tor ils E m s, ,g C po br re O ne ake as N nt c e, S s, om co UM ba p ol A W tte on an B O rie en L t R ,t E Ra K s, ts S r an gs SH tra , s cl , lu O ile flu ea b P rp id ne ric C ar , ts rs an O b ul , c ts N b S SU ar , P U s, flu ca PE M SP re , a AB sh Ti E ,a e L e N es irc ros ES bu rod SIO on ol sh s, N s, es ba A ab , b ll j N ra ea oin D siv AF rin ts ST es TE , E gs ra E , Au R , s ck R di M I h oc en NG dr o, AR ks ds es pe K , s rf ET up or , p m AC W ai an C nt ce ES O /w p S D RK ra ar O ia S p, ts, RI gn H ha o O dr bo ES nd sti P iv d el yk to cs, EQ in it ol ho U e s, s, is IP G sp ts M EN ec , e E E N Au R ia lec T lis t to A t s ric en e L R er s, gi lec E vi po ne tr PA ce w i re cal IR eq er bu , c S W ui to ild lu ER pm ol IN tc V s , s he I W DS en s, C u in C t sp s, c E d m sc RE en yl irr re E sio ind or en N e n s, s S ,c rh w , c AN oo ea ip hi D W er p lin ds H s, re G g , E L O E p c A us ai EM LS S r to s, S re re A m s pa p ND fit ide irs lac T m gl , c em Y en as R o t s, ns en ES AU um t, TO t Re ab yre s R le s, s, fit su tora EFI in tin pp ti N ne g lie on ISH r t /b s, , sm E ub ala s D pr a RS es nc RI ay sh in V g, Au E pa rep in ai to TR te rs D ma A rs , a iff t IN ,p u er ic en s, RE ai tont b tia Tra P co od ls, ns AI R f rre y W er S he c E ct a el se RV io n be s, I ar M CE a in n gs u , T als or , D qu S e Gs C ,C on V ve Ts rte , rs

This directory is a paid service for businesses who supply to the New Zealand automotive trade. To secure your inclusion, contact us on advertising@autochannel.co.nz.

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goss.co.nz or 03 8792 6999

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griffithsequipment.co.nz or 09 525 4575

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hcb.co.nz or 0800 422 228 haymanreese.co.nz or 0800 MYTBAR

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infinitev.nz or 0800 360 111

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injectronics.com.au or 0800 536 547

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jasoceania.co.nz or 0800 527 335

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0800 549 429

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nz.macnaught.com or 0800 023 510

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mmnz.co.nz or 0800 54 53 52

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smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

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0800 383 566 mountshop.co.nz or 0508 866 686

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napa.co.nz or 0800 800 073

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09 836 6673 patchrubber.co.nz or 0508 837 248

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penriteoil.co.nz or 0800 533 698

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precisionequipment.co.nz 0800 246 478

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redarcelectronics.co.nz

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repco.co.nz or 0800 472 787

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ryco.co.nz or 0800 838 222

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sasgroup.nz or 0800 MOUNT ME

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smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

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sulco.co.nz or 0800 800 488

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0800 188 122

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trade.supercheapauto.co.nz

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terraintamer.com or 09 263 6021

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enquiries@gearboxfactory.co.nz or 0800 443 272 / 09 274 8340 treadwayequipped.co.nz 0800 436 436 tridon.co.nz or 09 259 4327

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holden.co.nz

trojan.co.nz or 0800 876 526

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tatp.co.nz or 0800 268 266

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valvolineglobal.co.nz or 0800 825 865

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eshop.wurth.co.nz or 0800 683 040

Automechanika 2026 draws 112,000 to Frankfurt ​ OFTWARE-DEFINED VEHICLES, AI DIAGNOSTICS, AND S REMANUFACTURING SET THE TONE AT THE TRADE’S BIGGEST SHOW, AND THE INNOVATION AWARDS POINT TO WHERE WORKSHOP TECHNOLOGY IS HEADING

A

utomechanika Frankfurt ran from 8 to 12 September with 4,400 exhibitors from 80 countries — about 5% more than 2024 — across a fully booked 300,000 square metres, and drew more than 112,000 trade visitors from 173 countries, up from 104,750 two years ago. Two-thirds of visitors came from outside Germany. Organiser Messe Frankfurt reports that 90% of exhibitors intend to return in 2028 and 96% of visitors were satisfied with their visit, up four points from last time. “Not only has the mood been extremely positive throughout this intensive five-day trade fair, but there has also been a visible increase in the number of exhibitors and visitors,” said Detlef Braun, member of the executive board of Messe Frankfurt.

THE THEMES Artificial intelligence, software-defined vehicles, connected cars, driver-assistance systems, and alternative drives ran through the halls, with the emphasis on what they mean for repair and service across the vehicle’s life. A new HighTech4Mobility forum in the Festhalle brought software companies and startups together with workshops, retailers, and manufacturers on vehicle data, cybersecurity, the EU Data Act, and aftermarket business models. Mahle chief executive Arnd Franz put the case for common ground: “We need shared data standards, such as for determining battery status.” The German trade body ZDK used the show to release its half-yearly survey of about 400 dealers and workshops. Workshop business is the stable part of the picture while retail remains difficult, and the association now expects 817,000 new battery-electric registrations in Germany this year, well above earlier forecasts. US-based market research and consulting firm Frost & Sullivan puts global aftermarket growth at 5.8% for 2026, driven by ageing fleets, the independent parts market, electrification, and digitalisation.

INNOVATION AWARD WINNERS A 17-member jury chose winners from a record 185 entries and 47 finalists across ten categories. Bosch Mobility Aftermarket took AI Solutions & Digitalisation for the ESI[tronic] AI Assistant, a conversational search tool that speeds up fault-finding. MAHA won Smart Workshop & Service Solutions with MAIA, a fully autonomous inspection robot that handles body-damage detection, headlight

38

Auto Channel Issue #95 October 2026

measurement, wheel alignment, and tyre inspection. MEYLE’s HD brake disc, with wear and long-term corrosion protection, won Advanced Parts & Vehicle Technologies. BORG Automotive won Sustainable Drive Solutions for a remanufacturing process for electric drive motors, and rema.germany took Circular Economy & Remanufacturing for a digital return and core-inspection system. Knorr-Bremse’s WESP CV secure data platform for commercial vehicle workshops won Data, Connectivity & Cybersecurity; SKF’s low-friction wheel bearings won Commercial Vehicle & Fleet Innovation; CARTEC’s SmartBoxBlower Auto Pilot, which automates bumper paint preparation, won Body & Paint; POLYTOP’s BLUE LINE series for washing without potable water won Car Care, Cleaning & Detailing; and GEN-Y Hitch’s PHANTOM-XT adjustable drop hitch won Smart Accessories & Lifestyle. The jury’s Green Award went to Autocraft Solutions Group for REVIVE EV Battery Workshops, a repair and remanufacturing concept for highvoltage batteries.

Auto Channel is the best way to reach the wider automotive industry. The publication is direct mailed to New Zealand businesses in the following automotive sectors: Automotive workshops Parts importers and distributors Transmission specialists Automotive recyclers Towing operators Panel beaters and painters Crash repairers Tyre dealers Suspension and underbody repairers Steering specialists Towing operators Auto-electrical repairers New- and used-car dealers Air conditioning repairers Trucking and transport −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−

ON THE GROUND Around 500 events ran alongside the exhibition, including a 200-metre pit lane under the Hall 4 arcades with race cars and test drives, an outdoor Experience Park with a rollover simulator, and a Classic Alliance restoration area with FIVA, Bosch, DAT, Eucon, and ROWE. The free certified training programme covered damage diagnosis, ADAS calibration, paint, and alternative powertrains, and for the first time it is being made available online after the show. The AMBITION careers format drew more than 4,600 pupils, students, and trainees. The next Automechanika Frankfurt runs from 5 to 9 September 2028.

Auto Channel Issue No. 95 distributed 4 November 2026 −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−

Editorial: contact@autochannel.co.nz Advertising: Mike White michael.white@viamedia.co.nz All other enquiries to: autochannel.co.nz Auto Channel is produced by Via Media, publishers of two of NZ’s biggest-selling automotive magazines: NZ Performance Car and NZV8.

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WHANGAREI . HENDERSON . PENROSE . HAMILTON . TAURANGA . PALMERSTON NORTH . LOWER HUTT . CHRISTCHURCH

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