Autofile 15dec web by Autofile

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Issue 22-2015 15 December 2015

Study confirms electric cars’ life-cycle benefits R esearch commissioned by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) has found electric vehicles (EVs) are better for New Zealand’s environment than petrol or diesel-powered equivalents during their life cycles. It is the first study undertaken in the context of this country and looks at impacts from resource extraction and production, to onroad use and end-of-life disposal. Liz Yeaman, EECA’s general manager of transport, says EVs outperform petrol and diesel cars particularly well in regards to their

carbon emissions. Across their life cycles, pure EVs produce about 60 per cent fewer CO₂ emissions than their petrol equivalents. “When we just look at the CO₂ emissions from use, New Zealand’s high proportion of renewable electricity generation means EVs have around 80 per cent fewer emissions when they are driven here,” she says. “As the renewable proportion of this country’s electricity continues to grow, CO₂ emissions from EVs will reduce further.” The analysis also found about 40 per cent less energy is required

for an EV during its life cycle than a petrol or diesel one. Electric cars also have lower levels of photochemical oxidation, which is related to the formation of smog, than their petrol counterparts, while EVs produce the lowest levels of particulate matter during their lives and emit no tailpipe emissions. Yeaman stresses the report tackles two urban myths around EVs. The analysis found there was no significant difference in the depletion of rare-earth metals between them and petrol and diesel vehicles.

In this issue p10 Review into risk ratings p12 Meet NZTA’s new boss p14 Spotlight on Greymouth p18 EV event set to expand p20 Radio spectrum update p35 ‘Sweet spot’ with Hilux

Specialised training that’s proven to increase profits

[continued on page 4]

Fees for finance in spotlight

otor Trade Finances (MTF) is unable to quantify any further liability it may face for loans in the Sportzone case – or any other lending originated by its shareholders. Chairman Stephen Higgs says the company has a contingent liability arising from civil proceedings brought by

the Commerce Commission for alleged breaches of the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act (CCCFA). The claims are in respect of various fees charged for 39 credit contracts for Sportzone Motorcycles Ltd, which is now in liquidation, while the case has major implications for the wider finance industry.

Initial high-court proceedings were held in November 2012 and were followed by a quantum hearing in June 2014. A court of appeal hearing then took place in November 2014 with the judgement delivered on March 30. MTF’s and Sportzone’s appeals were dismissed. The appeal court upheld the

NZ Car of the Year awards

[continued on page 8]

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Powering vehicles in the future

here has been plenty of talk this year about electric vehicles (EVs), but what fuels cars of the future may come down to a face-off with hydrogen – based on current developments, at least. In some ways battery pioneers, such as Elon Musk, chief executive officer of Tesla Motors, are taking on more established marques, which appear divided on which energy form to focus on. Some big guns, such as Toyota, Honda and Hyundai, are putting most of their chips on hydrogen turning up trumps. Toyota has invested billions researching and delivering its Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle (FCV), yet it’s struggling to have any impact in the marque’s domestic market, while Hyundai and Honda have the ix35 and Clarity. FCVs work by using a fuel stack to mix outside air with on-board hydrogen in pressurised tanks to create electricity to charge a battery or drive electric motors. The only emissions are water. While this clean power may seem the obvious choice, Musk is less than convinced. “If you took a solar panel and used that energy to just charge a battery directly – rather than trying to split water, take out the hydrogen, dump the oxygen, compress the hydrogen and then put it into a car to run the fuel cell – it is about half the efficiency,” he says. “It makes no sense.” Nissan also believes the future is electric. It is pursuing improved powertrain technology in a bid to mass produce EVs that equal or surpass the convenience of petrol-powered cars. Its Leaf is the world’s best-seller in its sector. In hydrogen’s favour are its similarities to petrol. It takes a few minutes to fill a tank with the gas

and many FCVs boast long ranges – the Mirai’s is 547km. Against it is the huge and costly task of developing infrastructure to support hydrogen – from creating enough of it, to transporting it and building stations. Pure EVs have much shorter ranges and charging them takes longer. On their flipside, the infrastructure to support them is easier to roll out. Toyota is open about hydrogen’s challenges by setting itself a target of selling more than 30,000 FCVs within five years and sees its current hybrids, such as the Prius, as stepping stones to its longer term goal. It’s worth remembering industry experts and consumers turned their noses up at the first Prius. Its popularity rose in the US – for example – when Hollywood’s trendsetters later decided it was a “must-have”. The bottom line for supporters of FCVs is they are more viable thanks to their ranges, and because EVs’ batteries are so heavy and expensive. Then there are those with feet in neither camp, and who believe EVs and FCVs will not completely replace hybrids or petrol engines for decades to come. The bigger picture also needs to be considered. What happens when the developing world, including China and India, pushes en masse for personal vehicle ownership? The planet can’t handle that as far as fossil fuels are concerned and it’s unlikely to cope under an EV-focused system due to resource constraints on lithium-ion. Alternatives to passenger cars may need to be considered as the planet faces this conundrum. Darren Risby, editor

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Autofile magazine is also available online as a readable file or downloadable as a PDF. Subscriptions are available at Autofile Online – www.autofile.co.nz. Back copies are also available on the website. Copyright: Published twice monthly by 4Media Ltd, PO Box 6222, Dunedin 9059. All statements made, although based on information believed to be accurate and reliable, cannot be guaranteed, and no liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions. Reproduction of Autofile in print or digital format in whole or part without written permission, whether by copying or any other means, is strictly forbidden. All rights reserved. ISSN 0112-3475 (print) ISSN 2350-3181 (online)

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news [continued from page 1]

Electric vehicles meet urban needs “The lithium used in lithiumion batteries for EVs present in the form of salts is neither a rareearth nor even a precious metal,” she says. “The analysis found there are no significant differences across vehicle types with regard to resource depletion, air acidification, human toxicity and eco-toxicity life-cycle indicators.” The report notes that, at first glance, New Zealand seems uniquely suited to benefit from recent developments in the technology of pure EVs, which generally use a battery to store energy supplied from an external source – typically the mains electricity grid – and an electric motor as a primary method of propulsion. Then there are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which have a conventional internal combustion engine and an electric motor.

adoption of EV technology Pure EVs should not to be promises to yield significant confused with hybrid electric reductions in the carbon footprint cars, which use many of the of our light-transport fleet, which same technological elements currently relies on fossil fuels. to capture efficiencies in the The report says EVs have operation of their conventional attracted an increasing amount internal combustion engines. of attention from While the range of motoring enthusiasts, pure EVs is constrained sustainable-energy by the amount of advocates and utility energy that can be companies. stored in their batteries, Industry and policyall models currently makers anticipate the available on the Kiwi number of EVs in the market “are capable of Liz Yeaman, of EECA light fleet will grow meeting the transport quickly, particularly if needs of the majority of policy and financial commitments urban-dwelling New Zealanders, are made to support their uptake who drive less than 42km per and use. day”, states the report. “It is, therefore, desirable to This country presently produces attempt to quantify what – if any about 80 per cent of its electricity – benefits this kind of investment from renewable sources and is on in EV technology would yield,” track for 90 per cent by 2025. states the report. For this reason, widespread “It’s not only the effects of vehicle operation that must be considered when evaluating competing technologies. “For example, a low-carbon footprint will count for little if a vehicle has an overall higher embodied-carbon content – that is, its manufacture requires a more carbon-intensive process – or if other impacts on the environment or human health are unacceptable. “A proper comparison needs to take into account the impacts of the processes involved in the entire life cycle – the so-called

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cradle-to-grave journey of which operation is but a part.” Life-cycle assessments of such technologies have become commonplace overseas, but no such study had been undertaken for New Zealand’s context, which is why EECA commissioned it. The research is described as a “snapshot in time”, and is likely to have to be revised if the range and quality of the data available, or generally accepted assessment methods, change. It took into account four vehicle technologies – one petrol, diesel, a pure EV and a PHEV. To investigate the life-cycle impacts of each on the environment and human health, eight categories were examined. The study found EVs significantly reduce emissions with globalwarming potential during their life cycles. A reduction of carbon dioxideequivalent (CO₂-eq) emissions approaching 60 per cent will be realised over the full life cycle of a pure EV compared to a petrol one. When looking only at electricity consumed by an EV driven in New Zealand, it will produce close to 80 per cent less CO₂-eq emissions compared to a petrol car – a figure that will only improve if the country meets targets to cut the carbon intensity of electricity production. The total amount of energy used during the entire life cycle is about 40 per cent less for an EV 

Industy developments Commercially produced, modernday EVs have been available on the global market – albeit in limited numbers – since 2008. Their numbers are still small at less than one per cent of the light-vehicle fleet, but sales worldwide have been steadily increasing. The International Energy Agency forecasts sales of about 110 million EVs with a significant

portion anticipated for the AsiaOceania market, which includes New Zealand. By the end of 2014, more than 650,000 EVs had been sold globally with a number of countries showing strong growth. China, the US and Japan remain the largest markets, but Norway – on a per-capita basis – has by far the greatest share with more than one per cent of its fleet being electrified.

news Forecast for annual global sales of electric vehicles and PHEVs 120 OECD Asia Oceania 100 Passenger LDV sales (millions)

t than for petrol and diesel vehicles. The study found there are no significant differences across technology types with regard to net resource depletion, although levels of uncertainty in these findings are high. While it is easy to state with confidence the improvement on fossil-fuel resource depletion of using EVs and PHEVs, it is harder to quantify the depletion of other resources, such as the minerals used in batteries and making electric motors. Nonetheless, the differences in net resource depletion are not significant, and the analysis found improvements in battery technology, such as battery life being extended, and in the rate of recycling of materials used in batteries and motors will improve EVs’ comparative mineral resource performance. The report states the resource depletion effect of the amount of lithium in EVs is insignificant compared to other minerals or resources.

OECD Americas 80 OECD Europe 60 Other non-OECD 40 India 20 China 0

2010

2020

2030

2050

2040

*Source: International Energy Agency Global EV Outlook 2013. By the end of 2014, more than 650,000 EVs had been sold worldwide.

Electric cars also produce lower particulate emissions than petrol and diesel vehicles. Diesel, plug-in hybrid and batterypowered electric vehicles all indicated lower smog-forming potential than petrol cars. As with resource depletion, there is uncertainty in assessment methods used to gauge humanhealth toxicity, eco-toxicity and air acidification.

The results did, however, indicate EVs have the lowest impact for ecotoxicity and air acidification, and human-toxicity impacts are small across all vehicles. The report concludes: “Overall, the comparative life-cycle assessments indicate there are worthwhile gains to be made by encouraging the uptake of EV technologies in New Zealand, particularly with regard to

reducing the carbon intensity of the economy.” The analysis was conducted by consultants Arup and Verdant Vision using International Organisation for Standardisation methodology to assess environmental impacts. Visit www.eeca.govt.nz/assets/ Resources-EECA/ev-lca-finalreport-nov-2015.pdf to read the full report.

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news

German marque charges to win T

he BMW i3 has become to first electric car to be crowned New Zealand Car of the Year. Managing director Florian Renndorfer describes the model as “incredibly significant to the brand because it is “derived from an innovative clean-sheet design”. At the awards ceremony at Auckland’s Viaduct Events Centre, he said winning the title made everyone at the company proud before congratulating the other finalists as “fine competitors”. “Regarding the i3, this is the future,” said Renndorfer. “It was built from the ground up to be an electric vehicle and best in its class. It’s about sustainable future mobility, but also sheer driving pleasure. “The AA and NZ Motoring Writers’ Guild award adds to the list of significant endorsements

Florian Renndorfer, managing director of BMW NZ, with the NZ Car of the Year trophy, flanked by the AA’s Stella Stocks, left, and Liz Dobson, of the NZ Motoring Writers’ Guild

bestowed on this groundbreaking model.” Stella Stocks, the AA’s general manager of motoring services, says while electric vehicles (EVs) form a tiny part of the New Zealand market, they make up a strong emerging sector. “The i3 is the epitome of what

EVs can offer motorists, which is an exciting alternative to their fossilfuelled cousins,” she said. “While EVs aren’t for everyone, they are making their mark particularly in urban environments. “With the support of central and local governments, alongside other organisations

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and companies to develop infrastructure including rapidcharging stations, EVs will become more of a consideration to Kiwis.” The nine other finalists for car of the year were the Audi Q7, BMW i3, Ford Mondeo, Hyundai Tucson, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Mazda 2, CX-3 and MX-5, Subaru Legacy and Volvo XC90. “Kiwis want multi-functional vehicles,” said Stocks. “This is why SUV sales are so strong compared with other classes. Manufacturers are listening to consumers when designing cars around how we want to use them.” Hyundai won the most gongs. They included the Tucson securing the people’s choice award, which made its debut this year with about 35,000 votes cast. General manager Andy Sinclair described Hyundai’s haul as a “humbling but fitting accolade”, and 

First for safety award

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yundai’s Genesis and Volvo’s XC90 made history at this year’s NZ Car of the Year awards by being joint winners of the safest car title. “Things are a little different this year,” Stella Stocks, the AA’s general manager of motoring services, told guests at the awards ceremony. “Typically, we have used the ANCAP results to assess the winner. However, ANCAP is moving towards aligning its crash test and assessment protocols with Euro NCAP. “Over the next couple of years, while results will still be branded as ANCAP, we’ll see a mix of ANCAP and Euro NCAP data sheets that explain the star rating. “The background calculations for each are different. Under the ANCAP regime, there was a clear safest-car winner. “With the two methodologies working alongside each other, it’s not so easy to split vehicles with

results that sometimes are within a decimal point of each other. “This is the situation we’ve found ourselves faced with this year and we have two vehicles – one tested by existing ANCAP protocols and one more recently tested by Euro NCAP – we can’t separate. “So for the first time, we have two very safe vehicles and both will be recognised.” Stocks added vehicle safety now “goes beyond the driver and other occupants in a crash”. “The industry is taking the lead and generally going beyond minimum requirements for top safety ratings in most cases. We are seeing all classes of vehicles lifting the bar. “While not everyone is in the market for a new car, the technology we’re seeing is still going to save lives when they are passed onto the secondhand market in two or three years’ time.”

news

The 2015 NZ Car of the Year finalists

David Crawford, of the Motor Industry Association

Comedian Ben Hurley was one of the MCs along with Urzila Carlson

t securing the people’s choice title months after the Tucson’s launch as a “fantastic endorsement”. “We are all about people – our staff, dealerships and owners,” he said. “To win an award voted by people for an advanced medium SUV is a validation of our emphasis on design, technology and driveability. “To win against worthy rivals is a testament to the desirability of the Tucson, which is on its way to becoming the vehicle of choice in

New Zealand’s white-hot medium SUV segment.” Brian Gibbons, the AA’s chief executive, said the awards were all about honouring excellence – in design, comfort, safety and “all those features that make one car stand out”. “It’s an opportunity for us to congratulate manufacturers for their efforts around vehicle safety,” he added. “These awards also emphasise how technology is changing the

Guests enjoying this year’s awards ceremony

Best-in-class results Small car – Mazda 2 Compact car – BMW i3 Medium/large car – Mercedes-Benz C-Class Luxury car – Hyundai Genesis Small SUV/crossover – Mazda CX-3 Medium SUV – Hyundai Tucson Large SUV – Hyundai Santa Fe Luxury SUV – Volvo XC90 Utility – Ford Ranger Sports/performance vehicle – Mercedes C 63 AMG

Brian Gibbons, chief executive of the AA

nature of design and usability. “As in past years, the judges kept me in the dark as to the winners, possibly because they know I can’t keep a secret. “I extend my congratulations to every one of the 10 vehicles in the final round of the awards. Each is a winner in its own right, but there can only be one car of the year.” Visit www.autofile.co.nz for speeches from the awards ceremony on December 9, two picture galleries, and more news and views.

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news [continued from page 1]

Recoverable fees key in outcome high court’s liability judgement, which stated some establishment and credit fees for the Sportzone loan contracts were unreasonable in terms of the CCCFA, and the quantum judgement, which detailed specific costs that may be recovered through charges. “The quantum judgement and 2006-08 MTF fee models provide for a mix of interest rates and fees as allowed for in the CCCFA,” says Higgs. “Both models include an analysis of recoverable costs, and the courts agreed all of MTF’s costs were recoverable through a mix of interest rate and fees. “The quantum judgement allows the recovery of many fixed and indirect costs the commission originally sought to exclude as unreasonable through fees.” Higgs says that – in applying the quantum judgement – there are significant increases from single-figure charges that formed the commission’s stance in the high court. “That original position was that each of MTF’s establishment fees, for example for the 2006-08 period, ought to have been less than $10 per loan,” he explains. “The total amount by which they have been held unreasonable – and to be repaid to 39 Sportzone borrowers – is less than $10,000, which has been fully provided for.” MTF was granted leave to appeal to New Zealand’s supreme court with the hearing taking place last month. “The contingent liability arises from the pending supreme court decision, expected in early 2016, which may require MTF to amend its quantification of any liability in

respect of the Sportzone loans. “Consequently, MTF is not in a position to quantify any further liability in relation to those loans or any others originated by its shareholders.” The impacts of mandatory changes in the financial sector are being felt across the industry, and this is the case for MTF with internal development being driven by consumer laws and regulations. The responsible lending code and lender responsibility principles came into force on June 6 as part of the government’s review of the CCCFA.

“Turners and Heartland see benefits in working with MTF and or owning shares, and there is potential for some benefits to flow through to originators and shareholders. “The company continues to have competitive, low-cost funding with strong investor demand on the wholesale funding side of the business.”

An initial offer from Turners, an existing MTF shareholder, closed on October 17 and resulted in it acquiring 6.67 per cent of ordinary shares to take its holding to 7.62 per cent. In response to Heartland’s initial approach, MTF’s board stated it will not approve the company holding 10 to 20 per cent of its ordinary shares. Heartland signed a confidentiality agreement two months ago and has since started initial limited due diligence to help it decide on making a full takeover offer. Higgs says: “Whether

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Higgs says MTF maintains a good market share and continues to produce “excellent profit for originators”. He adds: “In an economic

“Turners and Heartland see benefits in working with MTF and or owning shares, and there’s potential for benefits to f low through to originators and shareholders.” – Stephen Higgs, chairman of MTF

“This has had a wide-ranging impact on origination, arrears management and compliance processes,” says Higgs. “Our future development is heavily focused on creating simple and effective ways for our originator network to meet compliance responsibilities. “Successful training initiatives around anti-money laundering and the lending code have been released, and are to be followed with sales and customer lifecycle training.”

INTEREST IN COMPANY Turners Ltd and Heartland NZ have shown interest over the past year in acquiring MTF’s ordinary shares.

Heartland will make an offer remains to be seen, but the board notes that while it is not actively seeking a buyer, it is obliged to consider whether any offer is in the best interests of the company and shareholders.” The board’s approval of a special resolution of shareholders will be needed before any party can hold more than 10 per cent of MTF’s shares, while a holding by Heartland may also require amendments to the Dunedinbased company’s constitution. “These approaches reflect the fact MTF is in good health and is operating well in a competitive environment,” says Higgs.

environment where consumer confidence has flattened, shareholder return on equity and dividend returns are superior to many in the industry at a time when competition has never been stronger. “Generally, the outlook for the New Zealand economy remains soft and we have entered a more challenging period. “Elevated global risks, Auckland’s housing market and a slowing Canterbury rebuild will all weigh on consumer and business confidence.” He notes some key positives still exist, such as strong migration, a weaker New Zealand dollar and the likely continued easing of the 

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news t official cash rate, which should mean the economy will remain relatively stable and deliver steady growth over the medium term. However, demand for consumer credit has come off its 2014 peak and competition for market share remains aggressive. “New market participants with a focus on gaining online presence reflect the anticipated change in consumer behaviour towards transacting through digital means,” says Higgs in the company’s annual report for the year ending September 30, which was published last month. “The board is confident investment in technology, and a focus on service to customers and originating shareholders, will enable MTF to maintain its share of a competitive market.”

ordinary share compared to 11.2c in the previous financial year. Perpetual preference share dividends totalling $1.8m, up from $1.5m, were paid during the period. Glen Todd, chief executive officer, reports sales decreased by 7.3 per cent in 2015 after a record year in 2014. “MTF’s traditional market of used-car finance has come under pressure with the high New Zealand dollar making new cars an attainable proposition for consumers,” he says. The car-lending market generally remains competitive, which is reflected in market share for the period, and measured by personal property security registrations, which reduced to 11.9 from 12.5 per cent. “We anticipate trading conditions to be challenging and FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE growth difficult to achieve as MTF has posted a 6.9 per demand for consumer cent increase in profits credit continues to before commission and abate,” adds Todd. fair-value movements for “MTF will target the past financial year to growth in quality $45.2 million thanks to lending through strong asset growth in expanding its car recent reporting periods. dealer and franchise Commission paid to distribution, and by an Glen Todd, MTF’s chief executive officer shareholder originators increasing focus on the increased by six per cent to $33.4m, retention of preferred existing while total amounts paid to its customers.” originators – including commission, Operating expenses, excluding fees and payment waivers – bad debt and as a percentage increased by 3.3 per cent to $51.7m. of assets under administration, Underlying profits after tax dropped to 2.7 per cent compared increased by 21 per cent to $8.1m to three per cent in 2014. – up from $6.7m – largely due to “We continue to focus on insurance proceeds received. This strong cost management, while figure removes the volatility of investing in areas that will ensure unrealised fair-value movements the business’ future success. and provides a more consistent “Administration expenses measure of company performance. dropped by 19 per cent due to Unrealised losses on fair value 2014’s costs associated with of financial instruments totalled defending proceedings brought $1.8m compared to $1.7m in the by the Commerce Commission previous 12 months for net profits and costs relating to last year’s after tax of $6.9m – up from approach from Heartland.” $6.1m in the 2014 financial year. The company has set its Underlying profit per ordinary dividend policy to a target of 50 share was 27 cents, which was per cent of underlying profit after an increase by five cents for the tax in mid-2014. same period last year. The current dividend policy MTF’s directors approved provides an improved return to a final dividend of 7.65c per shareholders while maintaining ordinary share. Total distribution sufficient capital to fund future for the period will be 13.65c per growth.

Our thanks,

to you. In this season for giving thanks we have much to be grateful for. To our loyal dealers who have experienced the support and innovation of Provident Insurance. To your customers who trusted their choice of Provident Insurance. To our Provident team who live and breathe our passion and commitment to developing customer driven products, service and support. To 2016 when we hope to introduce more of you to Provident profit factor.

Thank you, be safe over the holidays and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year to you all.

Introduce the Provident Profit Factor into your business, talk to Steve Owens or visit www.providentinsurance.co.nz

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news

Used imports issues on horizon I

ntelligent transportation systems (ITS), electronic stability control (ESC) requirements and new biosecurity measures are among the issues that will impact on the automotive sector to a greater or lesser degree in the future. David Vinsen, chief executive of the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (IMVIA), believes developments in the ITS field have “the potential to be a trouble spot”. “If we bring in vehicles that aren’t compatible with New Zealand’s already-allocated radio frequencies, they will be prohibited,” he told guests at the organisation’s Christmas gathering in Auckland last month. “We can bring them in, but you won’t be able get them to comply, so we are doing quite a bit of work in that area.

Gordon Shaw, of VINZ, and Andrea Davies, of Autohub

“The reason we employed Kit Wilkerson [as the IMVIA’s policy analyst and adviser] last year was because of ITS and its potential. “He has been working closely with the Ministry of Transport to ensure we’re ahead of the game on ITS. It’s really important and

could be a bit of a showstopper.” All class MC vehicles must have factory-fitted ESC installed when they are border-checked from March 1, 2016. This category applies to passenger vehicles designed with special features for off-road

operation, which have not more than nine seating positions – including the driver’s – and must be four-wheel drive. Malcolm Yorston, the IMVIA’s technical services manager, attended this year’s Tokyo Motor Show and noted the safety feature is fitted into “almost everything” new in Japan. The association is now carrying out detailed analysis on the availability of used stock there that’s ESC-compliant. “By the time the sales search cycle is ready, we should be able to advise you better on compliance,” said Vinsen. The import health standard is another issue with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) expected to bring in measures next year to ensure all used vehicles from Japan have their biosecurity checks completed 

Review of risk ratings

he government was due to start consultation on ACC’s vehicle risk-rating system this month. It has attracted criticism after about 10,000 motorists were overcharged for annual licensing fees with models placed into incorrect levy bands. During this year’s levy-setting process, ACC consulted on changes so the charges better reflect the risk of injury linked to different cars. “There will be enhancements and ACC will consult from December 14 on specific rates for particular vehicles,” says Nikki Kaye, Minister for ACC. “This will give people an opportunity to comment on how their vehicle is rated and why before final decisions are made.” The review is part of a package of $450 million in levy reductions 2016/17. The average motorvehicle levy, which consists of the annual licence and petrol charge, will decrease by an average of 10 www.autofile.co.nz

$194.25 to $130.26 per vehicle. Businesses’ work levies will reduce by 11 per cent to 80 cents per $100 of liable earnings and the earner’s levy will go down by four per cent to $1.21. Next year’s vehicle levies will sit at historically low levels, while the annual ACC licence component for every petrol car will be less than $90. ACC’s board recommended the petrol levy should stay at 6.9 cents per litre rather than be cut to 5.7c as proposed at the start of the consultation. Kaye says: “Instead of reducing the levy by 1.2c, the board recommended an additional reduction to the annual licence levy of $13 per petrol car. “We have agreed to these recommendations, which are aimed at better recognising increased risks of injury associated with distance travelled.” The government will review petrol and annual licence levies policies next year.

news

Autohub’s Tony Teihuis and Masatoshi Akira

t before they arrive in New Zealand. “It’s not a major issue,” he said. “The MPI is enforcing its policy by moving the risk offshore. We think that’s a good thing so long as the industry can cope with it and it’s not happening too quickly.” Vinsen also referred to issues with ACC’s risk-rating system, which forms part of annual licensing fees and aims to ensure used vehicles are properly rated. “This year they weren’t and it has caused all sorts of problems.

Lloyd Wilson and Kit Wilkerson, of the IMVIA

The combined motor-industry associations have been working with ACC on that issue and a senior ACC actuary has briefed us on the proposals. “We are pretty confident the work has been done so that next year’s ratings will be as accurate as possible.” Another issue Vinsen raised was Australia – the IMVIA is halfway through its 24-month management contract with the AIMVIA. “We are working with them to

Steve Owens, of Provident Insurance, and Chris Knight, of Trade Me Motors / MotorWeb

get them set up, but really they are on their own feet and are lobbying at a sophisticated level, so we’ve been able to pull back a little bit. “They are lobbying at a level that took us 10 or 12 years to get to and have got good people on board, but it’s still a long game. “The interesting thing that comes out of that is it reinforces for us the value of the IMVIA and what our intellectual property is worth.” The IMVIA is also working on

reviewing its sponsors and corporates, and the services it provides. “About three or four months ago, an external company did a survey of these services. “We’ve been working on that since. It’s not an easy piece of work, but we hope that early in the new year we will be able to talk to you about our services and the way we deliver them.” Turn to page 30 for Vinsen’s views on how the used imports industry has performed this year.

The team at would like to express our heartfelt thanks to our customers and suppliers for their support during 2015. We wish them every happiness over the festive season, and good fortune for 2016

www.autofile.co.nz

news

Company looking into takeovers T

urners Ltd says more acquisitions are on the cards as it looks to expand the business. It is aiming for “significant further growth and greater scale, particularly in our finance and insurance activities”. This will “inevitably involve further acquisitions, and we are actively considering merger and acquisition opportunities consistent with our strategy and which will create positive shareholder value”. The company, which was previously called Dorchester Pacific, has reported a 47 per cent net increase in profit after tax to $7.44 million from $5.06m as its unaudited results for the six months to September 30. The company’s net profit before tax was $10.26m compared to $5.59m in the 2014 reporting period and was ahead of the

recent market guidance of $9.5m. Paul Byrnes, chief executive officer and executive director, says all of its businesses traded on or ahead of budget during the past half-year. “The Turners Group – previously Turners Auctions – recorded an outstanding second quarter with

the past year to $42m. Dorchester Finance and Oxford Finance have traded at more than 20 per cent ahead of the corresponding period last year. This is “despite the more competitive second-tier motorvehicle finance market that has evolved with banks, and some

Byrnes. “There is no concentration risk or exposure to the rural or any other specific industry sector.” Turners Ltd’s acquisition of Christchurch-based Southern Finance was completed in August. With its integration and systems completed, the focus is now on increasing distribution

“There is no concentration risk or exposure to the rural or any other specific industry sector.” – Paul Byrnes car sales volumes holding up, margins on locally sourced and imported vehicles increasing, and buoyant truck and machinery sales contributing to higher and sustained sales activity,” he says. Turners Finance’s loan book has increased by 30 per cent in

newer finance companies chasing lending targets and market share”. Total receivables across the group increased to $164m from $92m at September 30 after reaching $143m at March 31, 2015. “Bad debt write-offs and arrears remain at satisfactory levels,” says

and new lending through the South Island’s motor-vehicle dealer and broker network. The strong growth in sales of Mainstream’s products has continued with further expansion and increased distribution channels planned for outside the 

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www.autologistics.kiwi

he NZTA has appointed “strong field of candidates” and Fergus Gammie as its he’s confident “there will be no chief executive to replace loss of momentum in respect of Geoff Dangerfield. agency deliverables” until he takes Gammie is currently deputy up his position. secretary of infrastructure and “He joins the agency with services of Transport For NSW where a passion for transport and the he oversees 1,300 staff and manages difference it can make to a country,” an annual operating budget adds Moller. “He brings deep of about NZ$5.5 billion. experience in the transport He was previously sector both here and in deputy director services Australia.” of transport for the same Gammie holds a BA organisation, chief operating from Victoria University in Fergus Gammie officer of Auckland Wellington and a certificate Transport and chief executive in management from Henley of Auckland Regional Transport Management College, England. Authority. “I’m delighted to be returning Gammie starts with the home to a role and organisation that NZTA on March 1 so Dave Brash, makes a significant contribution to group manager for planning and New Zealand,” he says. investment, will be acting chief Moller believes Gammie’s strong executive from December 18 when relationship skills, and an ability to Dangerfield, who has resigned, leaves. engage and build rapport, means he Chris Moller, chairman of the will bring a good mix of leadership, agency’s board, says Gammie was operational experience, technical appointed after an international breadth and long-term thinking to recruitment process attracted a the land-transport sector.

news t greater Auckland area. “Further opportunities exist with whitelabelled Mainstream and DPL Insurance products developed for key distribution partners,” says Byrnes. Looking ahead, Turners Ltd says current market guidance for net profits before tax of $20m in the 12 months to March 31 may be exceeded. Chairman Grant Baker says the company “expects to at least achieve, and is more likely to exceed, this profit forecast”. He says trading has continued at forecast levels since the half-year ending September 30 with the “pleasing aspect of performance” for the first half of the current financial year being “strong contribution from all operating entities”. “Trading performance of the group overall remains on plan,” adds Baker. “We have also addressed a number of capital structure issues. The balance sheet is relatively conservatively geared

and the business is in a strong position overall.”

REVIEW OF STRUCTURE Turners is making some capital structure changes after taking advice on options over the past year or so. “We believe the changes will strengthen the register and provide confidence around the group’s ongoing growth and sustainable earnings,” says Byrnes. “While some shareholders may have differing views on the merits of any particular structural option, the overall changes should deliver positive shareprice signalling to the market for the benefit of all shareholders”. The board has announced a buy-back of holdings of less than 5,000 shares at 30 cents each with no brokerage. There are about 1,860 such holdings, which account for about four million shares or 0.6 per cent of shares on issue, while the offer was mailed out at the end of last month. There will also be the

compulsory sale of minimum holdings of less than 1,000 shares. This applies to 450 holdings amounting to 213,000, or 0.02 per cent, of shares on issue. The company will be giving these shareholders three months’ notice of its intention to sell them on the market if they still hold less than a minimum amount and account to them for the net proceeds. They will be eligible for a buy-back offer of 30c per share. Following the buy-back of holdings of less than 5,000 shares and sale of minimum holdings of less than 1,000, the company will consolidate every 10 shares held into one share. Turners Ltd will also move to quarterly payments after the final dividend for the year ending March 31. “The directors have confidence that the current dividend yield is sustainable,” says Byrnes. Visit www.autofile.co.nz for more on Turner’s past-half year financial results.

Finance firm’s profits climb

DC Finance’s net profits after tax have jumped to $57.1 million for the 12 months to September 30 – an 11 per cent increase on the previous financial year. Solid lending growth, improved credit quality and cost efficiencies have been identified as contributing to record results. “We have grown our loan portfolio and are developing further long-term partnerships in key industries,” says Wayne Percival, chief executive officer. Motor-vehicle lending experienced year-on-year growth of 14 per cent, and in road transport and construction. “We remain strong in regional centres throughout New Zealand, as well as focusing on opportunities in major centres – particularly Auckland and Christchurch.”

Transport in the future

overnment officials are looking for people’s views on what New Zealand’s transport system may look like in the future so it’s well-prepared if it changes dramatically. The Ministry of Transport (MoT) says autonomous vehicles are bound to happen, but teleportation and flying cars are unlikely, while there may be freight corridors alongside railway tracks with drones delivering parcels to free up cars and trucks for heavier cargo. As for intelligent transportation systems, it is predicted road sensors and cameras will analyse the network to respond in real-time to what’s happening, which may help ease congestion. The ideas are based on a projected unknown date when motorists may be banned from all roads, Auckland is congestionfree and airships could ferry passengers around. Chief executive Martin Matthews says all transport options could be

operated by computers with the road toll dropping to 30 deaths a year from 300 with human error being eliminated. “It’s not an attempt to exactly predict the future, it’s about exposing people to ideas of what the future could be like,” he says. “Sometimes we see things at an early stage, but cannot imagine how they will change the world. We know this from mobile technology and the way it has altered our lives, and autonomous vehicles are coming – that’s the reality. “This work is about exposing people to ideas of what the future could be about, how we think the transport system might evolve in the next 20-40 years. “We don’t present this work as the views of industry or government policy, but it’s important to have a broader discussion about what New Zealanders want.” Visit www.transport.govt.nz/ futures to find out more about the project and join in the debate.

Merry Christmas Thank you for your support throughout the year. We wish you a safe and happy festive season and look forward to working together again in 2016. We will be open for business as usual throughout the Christmas break, so you can rest assured your customers claims and support enquiries are covered.

www.mainstreaminsurance.co.nz | 0800 674 678 www.autofile.co.nz

regional report

Working towards brighter future

reymouth is in a strong transition phase with expansion in infrastructure, farming, meat and fish processing, and tourism while its coal-mining industry is in decline. Although ANZ’s regional trends report for the West Coast for the third quarter of this year shows little movement in growth across all sectors, locals feel the economic outlook will improve with projects going ahead. Mayor Tony Kokshoorn, who has been at the helm of the council through tough times, says mining – in the short term – is unlikely to recover to where it was. The industry

now only has about 50 employees. “It has been a tough five years here,” he told Autofile. “Even before this, there was the financial collapse around the world in 2008, but that didn’t affect the West Coast because we had a commodity boom going on – especially with coal prices at around $300 per tonne. “Our woes started in 2010 after Pike River and that triggered a big downturn. This was followed close behind by the commodity crash in coal prices, which have never recovered.” The downward trend has forced the area to rethink its industries with a fresh focus on tourism and

The Coast Road, which runs through Greymouth, hugs the region's rugged shoreline

dairy farming coming to the fore. “We’re emerging from these setbacks slowly but surely and are now moving into more sustainable industry. That takes time. However, we feel it has bottomed out and there will be steady growth from now on. “Tourism at the moment is booming. Farming is down, but has a good future. We’ve got the Westland Milk Products company here, so we are able to manufacture our own products.” Statistics show tourism is on the rise with the number of guest nights up slightly by 0.04 per cent in contrast to nationwide figures, which are generally downward.

Greymouth vehicle sales - December 2014 to November 2015 Used cars

New Cars

Used Commercials New Commercials

Public to Trader

Public to Public Trader to Public

Dec ‘14

213

Jan ‘15

232

103 96

Feb ‘15

209

Mar ‘14

232

Apr ‘14

216

May ‘15

200

Jun ‘15

213

Jul ‘15

248

Aug ‘15

207

Sep ‘15

175

Oct ‘15

173

Nov ‘15

170

Total 12 months

483

210

207

492

2,488

978

143,492

94,784

8,755

38,806

154,689

497,245

209,686

0.3%

0.2%

0.4%

0.5%

0.3%

0.5%

429

186

213

578

2,402

1,120

-3

-6

-86

-142

12.6%

12.9%

-8.3%

-2.8%

-14.9%

3.6%

-12.7%

New Zealand 4,242,051

Greymouth

Past 12 months NZ sales Greymouth’s % of national sales Previous year sales Dec 13 - Nov 14 Units increase/decrease Dec 13 - Nov 14 % increase/decrease Dec 13 - Nov 14

Population Greymouth at night

14 www.autofile.co.nz

21,675

0.5%

There are plenty of council-led and commercial building projects under way, although dwelling and consent figures dropped in the past quarter – down by 21.4 and 41.5 per cent respectively. Westfleet Seafoods, which opened a year ago, now has 110 employees and plans on significant expansion in coming years. Grey District Aquatic Centre has been built at a cost of $22 million and work has started on Westland Recreation Centre at an estimated $11m. Kokshoorn says the spending is essential to get the area out of the mining slump. “Our 10-year goal was to put in plans to make Greymouth an attractive place to live. What we have now got is an infrastructure and a population that wants to stop leaving.” With an unemployment rate of 5.3 per cent, expanded amenities will supply sustainable jobs, says Neil Smith, dealer principal of Grey Ford. “There are other sectors that are going okay and that’s important,” he says. “The West Coast is ticking along, although some sectors are still hurting. “We need to look at the tourism side of things. We’ve heard forward bookings are quite good for campers and rental vehicles, and – while some of those people are self-sufficient – there are some flow-on effects from this.”

STACKING UP THE NUMBERS Spending in the region has Picturesque Lake Brunner



Grey Ford has been operating on the West Coast since 1922

t boosted passenger vehicles sales with registrations to the end of November up by 12.9 per cent for new cars on the corresponding period a year ago and used cars up by 12.6 per cent. Over the same timescale, sales of new commercial vehicles have dropped by 2.8 per cent and used commercials have gone down by 8.3 per cent. Smith says that despite those figures, business is tracking similar to national trends especially with the top-selling Ford Ranger. “We don’t sell a lot of vans, but have demonstrators and a few variants for people to look at and test drive. “Interestingly, the Ranger is not only the top-selling ute in our market this year, it has been the top-selling vehicle in New Zealand. We’re pretty fortunate to have such a good product to sell.” With new cars, Smith notes the Kuga is a strong-seller, which aligns with the national trend towards SUVs. “The Mondeo has also moved very well. It’s well-priced and not only does it have all the new technology, it’s a great-looking vehicle as well.” Ken Williams, dealer principal of Coast Wide Honda, has also notched up good sales of new cars with the business tracking well and meeting projections before March’s financial year-end. “We are well ahead of our targets,” he says. “Everything we sell now is a bonus. We put this down to the nature of the new car

Coast Wide Honda in Greymouth

resurgence in market, which is up. Greymouth’s economy. “Advertising has “There are a certainly helped with few empty shops the brand being back downtown, but on television and so everyone is holding on. Honda has also their heads above given dealers more water,” he says. “It options to do deals will take off again. and there are different Businesses are still incentives.” Neil Smith, dealer principal ticking over here and Despite trader-toof Grey Ford those jobs are fairly secure.” public figures being Property is affordable with new down on the previous year by 12.7 house-and-land packages priced per cent, Williams notes yard sales from $350,000. of models such as the Jazz haven’t “The time will come again,” says slowed over the year. Brown. “I bought this business “We also got the new HR-V off the previous owner last year. a few months ago and, while it He had been in the industry for had a bit of a slow start for us, it’s 25 years and survived all of the certainly picking up now.” In the used sector, trade has been flat despite favourable statistics, says Ross Brown, owner of Greenfield Motors. “Business has been ticking over, but overall it’s slow. We haven’t broken any records by any stretch of the imagination.” Brown assigns this to the loss of mining jobs. “About 1,500 have gone, which would have been paying $80,000 to $100,000 per year – and some of that money would have been spent on cars. It impacts all the way down the line.” His rental car business is tracking well towards a good tourist season with bookings steady for the next three months.

downtimes, such as in forestry.” Kokshoorn warns there’s no room for a complacent attitude around town. “We had 150 years of coal and big mining wages washing through here. “That created a certain amount of complacency and we took it for granted that would be the way for a long time. Now it’s not there, we have had to lift the bar and find new industries. “We’ve come a long way since. We have tourism, fisheries, farming and a lot of associated industries. “We have now got ultra-fast broadband and the isolation factor has gone. We’ve got quality amenities, a great outdoor adventure industry and forestry.”

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Vehicles wanted dealers Buying now

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We like cars. But we love drivers.

Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda........................................................... Blair Woolford 021 0367706 Hyundai.............................................................................................................. Heath Kendall 027 8552681 029 2931232 Nissan and any other brand.................................................... Brett Harris Subaru, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Fiat & Alfa ......... Warren Carter 021 863503

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EuropEan VEhiclEs WantEd

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News in brief Electric vehicles will be able to park by themselves Tesla is introducing an autopilot system that will see its vehicles change lanes without human intervention. The marque has developed technology to automatically keep a car within its lane and maintain a distance from the vehicle in front. It will also be able to find a parking spot and parallel park. Chief executive officer Elon Musk says the system is unique because it constantly collects data from drivers to improve itself. However, motorists will need to keep their hands on the wheel with the autopilot alerting them if they don’t. While he recognises fully autonomous driving is at least three years away from a technical standpoint, it is likely regulators will take longer to allow it. The autopilot update will be added to about 60,000 vehicles worldwide, including Model S sedans made after September 2014 and Model X SUVs.

Sports car sheds weight and gains extra power Lotus says its new Exige Sport 350 is faster than ever before. It can make the dash to 100kph in 3.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 274kph. The 3.5-litre super-charged V6 engine generates 258kW at 7,000rpm and 400Nm of torque at 4,500rpm. The manual gearbox has been revised for more precise and quicker shifting. The 350, which has shed 51kg, will also be available with a sixspeed automatic option and as a roadster from late 2016. New Zealand pricing and specifications will be announced when it arrives in the middle of next year.

Marque’s call centre lands double for service levels Mitsubishi Motors NZ has scooped its fifth consecutive industry sector award and fourth-in-a-row supreme award for customer service at the 2015 CRM Call Centre Awards. Its call centre, which is based in Porirua, was entered in the category for less than 50 seats. Manager Haig Davidson puts his team’s success down to “never losing focus on delivering the best outcome for the customer, and passionate and knowledgeable staff, who care about the person at the other end of the line”.

Dealership changes name as part of restructuring

commErcial VEhiclEs WantEd

Vans, Utes, RV/SUV Phone Cory 027 203 5701

www.corporatecars.co.nz 16 www.autofile.co.nz

Winger Kia has been renamed Auckland City Kia, but is in the same location with the same staff. Grant Vincent, a director of Winger Group for almost 20 years, has taken full ownership of the central city parts of the business, which includes Winger Kia in Greenlane. It will continue to operate from the same premises as Auckland City Kia led by dealer principal Sam Coley. Vincent says the changes result from a review of the Winger Group to simplify its structure.

Company secures extension for emissions deadline The European Union has pushed out its deadline for the Volkswagen Group to clarify its admission that 800,000 cars have been sold to customers with false CO2 emissions data until the end of this year. The carmaker estimates the issue will cost about NZ$3.3 billion to fix. Chief executive Matthias Mueller says it will pay any extra taxes owed in countries, such as the UK and Germany, where they are based on CO₂ emissions.

new utes

Creating value with extra features T

he BT-50 has been given a facelift, but the marque says it feels more like a makeover because of the changes. Andrew Clearwater, managing director of Mazda NZ, says ute buyers are looking to get real value for their buck. The BT-50 comes with a capped price of only $200 per service and a three-year or 150,000km warranty. “For tradespeople, their BT-50 becomes their mobile office and – just like office rental – if you can reduce overheads while offering additional features it has to be good for business,” he says. “When you also consider the mix of design, driving performance, towing capacity, and comfortable and functional cabin, it ticks all the boxes.” The 2015 BT-50’s restyled

The upgraded BT-50

front end has resulted in a more aggressive and muscular appearance. The grille has been squared off and the marque’s sixthgeneration signature wing adopted. This extends into the headlamps horizontally from the

Good looks important

olden has launched the Z71 at the top of its pick-up range with it based on the Colorado LTZ four-by-four crew cab. The variant has a long list of content to provide more style to the ute, says the marque. Boasting a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes and “shift on the fly” four-wheel-drive, the Z71 adds exterior upgrades with grey 18inch alloys, a sail plane, styled nudge bar and a selection of black design content. It also has heated leatherappointed front seats, a rearview camera, acoustic package and Mylink infotainment system with seven-inch colour Holden’s Z71

touchscreen coming as standard. “More and more Kiwis are using trucks to promote active lifestyles whether it’s on the footy field, in the water or on the snow, and looking good is important to them,” says Kristian Aquilina, managing director of Holden NZ. The Z71’s headlamps come with a dark chrome mask, and gloss-black mirror scalps, B-pillars and tailgate handle. There are black body side-door mouldings and a streamlined soft tonneau, with an optional hard one and roof rails. Exteriors colours are white, red, black, grey and orange. Prices for Colorado range start at $44,490.

bonnet’s lip, while the indicator lamps’ prominence has been reduced. The garnish around the taillamps goes from chrome to black with the lens colour now deep red instead of being clear. Changes have been made to

the seat trims while decoration panels have adopted a gunmetal colour. The BT-50 is powered by a five-cylinder 3.2-litre DOHC intercooled turbo-diesel engine with 147kW power and 470Nm torque for class-leading braked towing capacity of 3,500kg. The range features two and four-wheel-drive (4WD) options in single, freestyle and double-cab body styles. Their grades are GLX, GLX Sport and GSX. Exterior colours are titanium flash, true red, aluminium metallic, deep crystal blue, blue reflex, cool white and jet black. The 2WD GLX single-cab chassis with manual transmission starts at $35,295, excluding on-road costs, while the 4WD automatic GSX double-cab wellside has a recommended retail price of $57,295.

Vehicles wanted Toyota SUVs & Utes

Hilux • Land Cruiser • Prado

We are always looking to purchase late model

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0274 333 303

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news

Electric day sparks off interest T

he “quality and distinctiveness” of teams competing at this year’s EVolocity was “way ahead” of 2014. Organiser Rob McEwen says there was a wide variety of innovative designs from the 17 participating schools, with teams from Motueka High and Nelson College excelling, writes Julia Braybrook. He adds the event gave “Canterbury teams good reason to lift their game for next year.” Motueka took out top spot in the performance category and open innovation challenge, as well as show winner, while Rangiora High’s Blue Nitro came first head-to-head drag race. The event in Ruapuna, Christchurch, aimed to inspire youngsters to design and build innovative electric vehicles (EVs), and educate the public on their merits. McEwen says the Orion-

A Tesla Model S on track at Ruapuna motorsport park

An electric go-kart creation

sponsored day created “a sense of togetherness” for the Garden City’s EV community. It also gave owners their first

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The BMW i8

Action in the pit lane. Visit www.autofile.co.nz for a photo gallery

One of the electric-powered entrants

experience of a rapid-charging “well-attended – not just on EVs, station with Charge.Net.NZ but on the broader smart-energy taking along two of its 50kW fast ecosystem”. chargers – and EV owners were EVolocity also gave about 140 delighted with them. people test drives in electric cars, The event on November 28 including Nissan Leafs, BMW i3s, was also a “real eye-opener” for an Audi A3 e-tron and a Tesla. petrolheads, who were impressed McEwen says while the event’s by the performance of a Tesla and schools programme is currently Tom Short’s electric drag car. offered only in Canterbury and McEwen told Autofile exit Nelson, he is seeing strong polls indicated that while 67 per demand from other regions to cent of people who went along get involved with Waikato, Otago already had a positive perception and Southland likely to be on of EVs, EVolocity changed those board next year. of the other 33 per The plan is to start cent in a positive way. holding regional finals The group-one for schools with the combustion-engined Christchurch event vehicle versus EV race continuing to be the saw Steve West win the national competition. 200 metres in his Tesla However, a public P85D in 6.3 seconds event with either followed by Short’s national or regional Event organiser Rob McEwen Datsun drag car. finals will only rev up West’s Tesla came second in with the support of the Energy the velodrome event in 113.98 Efficiency and Conservation seconds behind Tony Morrison Authority and other organisations, in a Ferrari Super America, which such as Drive Electric. clocked up 110.12. McEwen says: “Of course, Along with races between families and community electric go-karts and motorbikes, supporters will be encouraged to the event featured a smart-energy attend these events, but we won’t showcase including charging be spending money on marketing infrastructure for EVs, and solar to try to attract the public at large and home-energy management. without the support of other McEwen says workshops were organisations.”

Extra revenue with auto service plans M

otorcentral teamed up with Pit Stop – New Zealand’s largest franchised automotive repair group – a few months ago to provide used car dealers with an exclusive opportunity to sell peace-of-mind motoring to their customers by way of automotive servicing plans as an add-on. These plans allow motorists to pre-purchase their annual services and warrants of fitness for a two or three-year period, and are available as an integrated product for dealership staff to resell via Motorcentral’s dealer management system. Auto Service Plan offers a winwin for dealerships by not only providing that peace of mind but also valuable additional revenue, especially beneficial when margins on the sale of a car are slim. Along with being able to offer a “total vehicle solution” to hardearned buyers, our expectation is your customer’s overall experience will be enhanced and prompt their continued retention. We are pleased to report some dealers are already averaging good penetration rates, which is outstanding so early on. We expect that to increase over time to levels experienced in the US where the take-up of this type of product now matches some insurance products. Average penetration reported in other markets sits at around the 25 per cent mark, with finance and insurance managers consistently achieving more than 50 per cent. That being said, there is

one stand-out local new product to the salesperson who New Zealand market. believes so much in It works seamlessly the product that his into our dealer ratio of sales with management systems Auto Service Plan last to provide another month exceeded 70 tangible benefit for per cent. Motorcentral’s dealers. This achievement With only a few MARK GREENFIELD Motorcentral is outstanding, and clicks during the comes down to being confident sales process when creating in making customers aware of the vehicle offer and sales the product and the benefits it agreement, the Auto Service provides. Plan is generated from within Generally, the service plans have the dealer management system been sold alongside mechanical without the need to duplicate breakdown insurance (MBI) as being customer and car information complimentary to the servicing into a separate system. requirements of those policies. This ensures the process is There are also good quick and easy, allowing dealership opportunities with those staff to focus on selling and their customers who do not want to customers – instead of wasting purchase MBI, but want their time on extra data entry. future servicing requirements Service plans are mature built into their finance products in other markets repayments for better budgeting. around the world and have been It is great to work with the something many traders in New team at Pit Stop and bring this Zealand have been asking for.

Used car dealers traditionally don’t have service departments, so these plans offer a solution to customers at the same time as generating extra revenue opportunity. Some dealers with lowkilometre, late-model imports are already considering including an Auto Service Plan free of charge to their clients in an effort to compete with new car offerings. The nationwide coverage of Pit Stop’s service centres means regardless of where your customers live, they shouldn’t have to travel too far to service their vehicles. This is great for those outof-town buyers who don’t want to be limited to having their servicing completed where they purchased their cars. If you are interested in having these new plans available for your clients and generating extra revenue, please get in touch with the team at Motorcentral.

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“Our expectation is your customer’s overall experience will be enhanced and contribute towards their continued retention.”

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tech report

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Keeping ahead of industry changes T

he past few months have been a busy time at the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association with a number of important events taking place. There has been the ITS World Congress in France, which was attended by Kit Wilkerson, our policy analyst and adviser. It’s really important for the industry to keep abreast of changes in the field of intelligent transportation systems – especially going into the future as they develop so we can ensure the doors for used imports stay open. The issues surrounding ITS are important in how the fleet in New Zealand will develop. After all, systems in vehicles will have to comply with our laws and work in this country. Kit, chief executive David Vinsen and I attended the New Zealand Transport Fuels and Fleet Management Summit in Auckland in October during which a range of issues were discussed. Then I went to this year’s Tokyo Motor Show. Exhibits covered everything from electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles to trucks, smart mobility, ITS and vehicle componentry. While there, I was able to talk

to the management of World War Two ended. Denso, which supplies Members of the advanced automotive Japan Autobody Industry systems and components Association exhibited to carmakers. We their wares with many discussed radio-spectrum three-axle semi-trailers issues New Zealand displayed, most of which may face and they have were equipped with agreed to work with us in large single tyres and air MALCOLM YORSTON IMVIA membership and regards to that. suspension. technical services manager Discussions with staff One showcased two from Toyota about radio frequency castering rear-axles to improve indicated to me they are willing to steering and stability, and reduce look at solutions to the 760MHz pavement damage while cornering. issue as well. They are working with Some were gull-wing design semigovernments around the world and trailers that make for easy loading of assured me they will be able to meet high palletised loads. all requirements. Isuzu had a large Giga truck Also, the people from Mazda chassis displayed powered by were aware of these matters saying compressed natural gas with vehicles bound for New Zealand cylinders mounted on both sides of and other jurisdictions are fitted the chassis within the wheelbase and with different modules than those to the back of the rear axle. for Japan’s domestic market, and Hino’s Dakar Rally 10-litre classtransmitting functions can be easily winning truck was alongside its disabled without compromising fuel-cell city bus concept along with other safety features. heavy-duty Dutro hybrids. There was plenty on show in the Developments in the heavyheavy sector to get excited about. A vehicle sector are always worth TX 80 five-tonne truck on the Isuzu monitoring because they can filter stand reminded me of Bedford’s old down into the light passenger K Model with its cab layout almost fleet – the D-Max is a good mirroring the Bedford’s. The TX 80 example with Isuzu being a longhelped to restore Japan when established truck maker.

An Isuzu post-World War Two TX 80 five-tonne truck on show in Tokyo Hino’s truck that won the 10-litre class in the Dakar Rally

20 www.autofile.co.nz

Going back to the fuels and fleet summit, many delegates were impressed by keynote speaker Ian Wright, who was a co-founder of Tesla Motors and is now chief executive officer of his own company in the US called Wrightspeed. He has built an operation that meets ever-increasing market demands by tripling the efficiency of delivery and service trucks with his range-extended electric powertrains. There are big battery packs along the underside of entire floor areas of some trucks his company has retrofitted with batteries charged by jet-turbine engines. This concept is fantastic and burns off hydrocarbon emissions, and is better at doing this than traditional diesel and petrol engines. There are big electric motors on each wheel. For example, a two-axle bus will have two motors where the differential would be. Its conventional diesel engine has been replaced by the jet engine and electric drivetrain, which only weighs about 100kg more. The investment in a coach is about $450,000-plus, which is a lot more than a truck. A coach has a life cycle of about 25 years by which time the engines and drivetrains are replaced or overhauled. It looks like Wright’s system could add another 10-12 years, so it will be a viable option. It will be interesting to see if his innovations will be adopted by car manufacturers of light passenger vehicles. He believes it may ultimately be the case, although it’s likely to come down to economies of scale. That’s an interesting idea to think about and keep tabs on.

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news

Competitive spirit at golf day T

he first annual Provident Insurance Golf Classic has been hailed as a success. Despite adverse weather warnings and a few late withdrawals, more than 90 people took to the fairways on a day of clear-blue skies at The Narrows Golf Club in Hamilton for the ambrose-format event. “The mood was casual and the day was always going to be more about socialising with fellow motor-trade colleagues than serious golf,” says Steve Owens, chief executive officer of Provident. “However, the competitive nature of the industry was still evident with liberal offerings of alcohol to competing teams, charitable ball placings and the odd burglar.” The tournament on November 26 was won by Auto Auctioneers Hamilton. Winger North Shore came second and Ingham Motor

Steve Owens, CEO of Provident Insurance

Jaques Gray, Provident’s national sales manager

The Auto Auctioneers Hamilton team took out first place

Group from Hamilton placed third. Targa NZ was judged to be the best-dressed team and the greenkeeper’s award for most divots went to Lawrence Proffit, of UDC Finance.

Trent Ingham of Ingham Mitsubishi, Cherry de Kort of Ingham Hyundai and Provident’s Matt Bulbeck

Winger North Shore came second

And the club president’s honour for “enjoying the most golf” – a padder tennis set – was won by the combined team of Co-op Insurance and NZ Roadside Assistance. Owens adds: “A massive thanks

must go to the UDC team for providing the halfway tent and refreshments during the day.” Visit www.autofile.co.nz for an extensive photo gallery of action on the course and at the 19th hole.

With best wishes for a merry Christmas from all of us at

heiwa-auctions.com www.autofile.co.nz

Industry movers NZ labour market report SIMON RUTHERFORD starts as Ford NZ’s new managing director on January 1. He currently oversees global order to delivery, dealer connectivity, marketing sales and service in Dearborn, Michigan. “I’m delighted to have this opportunity to work with our team and dealers to serve customers in New Zealand,” says Rutherford, pictured. He is taking over from Corey Holter, who is returning to the US to become manager of car group marketing with Ford North America. Rutherford is originally from the UK and his wife grew up in Christchurch. He has visited this country numerous times on holiday. The 45-year-old’s career with Ford spans 23 years in various positions in the Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific. Visit www.autofile.co.nz for the full story. DAVE HARRIS has been appointed president of the Motor Trade Association (MTA). Harris, pictured, takes up the position after being elected as vice-president and a non-executive director in November 2013. Jim Gibbons, chairman of the Colonial Motor Company, is the MTA’s new vice-president. Its directors are Judy Lange, Bob Boniface, Tony Allan and Mark Darrow with the latter being independent. MITCH WOODS has joined Trade Me Motors as business development manager for MotorWeb. He has been working in the automotive industry for many years holding roles with Esanda Fleet Partners, Marsh and – more recently – the AA. A mechanic by trade and car enthusiast, Woods is passionate about the industry and is looking forward to supporting MotorWeb’s products. JAMES YATES is now group manager of business development at European Motor Distributors. His fixed-term contract follows him being general manager of Jaguar Land Rover NZ for about two years. Before that, Yates was group general manager of Jaguar, Land Rover, Renault and Volvo. TOM CAMPBELL has been reappointed as chairman of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA). Simon Bridges, Minister for Energy and Resources, has also reappointed Elena Trout and Phil Heatley as members. All three terms are for three years from February 1. “Campbell’s reappointment reflects his leadership and governance experience,” says Bridges. “Heatley – former Minister of Energy and Resources – brings energy-sector expertise to the board, and extensive experience working with government agencies.” LIZ DOBSON has been reappointed as president of the NZ Motoring Writers’ Guild. She says: “I’m pleased to once again have the opportunity to continue the work the guild has been doing with the automotive sector and to strengthen the NZ Car of the Year awards.”

TO FEATURE IN INDUSTRY MOVERS EMAIL EDITOR@AUTOFILE.CO.NZ 22 www.autofile.co.nz

Government research shows that skilled migrants are generally settling well into the New Zealand labour market. Analysis by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) of all 12,513 skilled migrants who took up residence in this country between November 2004 and October 2005 has found they have higher incomes three years after becoming residents than migrants without skilled work. The results of the report on labour-market integration and retention of skilled migrants are consistent with previous research. The latest analysis follows figures released in the annual migration trends and outlook report, which show the number of skilled-migrant residency approvals in the 2014/15 financial year increased by four per cent on the previous year to 21,165. Having current employment or a job offer at the time of approval suggests positive labour-market integration and retention in New Zealand for prospective skilled migrants. They have higher incomes, better employment opportunities and are more likely to remain in New Zealand. This is particularly important when skilled migrants take up residence when the economy is in recession. The effect of a job offer was much stronger in the period leading up to and during the global financial crisis, particularly for those taking up residence in the 2007/08 and 2008/09 tax years. While the magnitude of advantages lessens over time, skilled migrants with employment or a job offer when their residency applications are approved are still enjoying better outcomes – in terms of labour-market integration and retention – up to six years after settlement in this country. Returns to education on income are positive. However, former international students earn less money and are less likely to get work after becoming residents. Different labour-market integration and retention outlooks

are experienced by skilled migrants from different source countries. Those from Asia have lower incomes and are less likely to be employed compared to their European counterparts. The MBIE says this is mainly due to most skilled migrants from Asia being former international students – particularly from China and India. Skilled migrants from the Pacific also earn less because of the high proportion working in lower-skilled jobs. However, the majority of skilled migrants from this region remain in New Zealand long term or permanently. While those from North America have higher incomes, they are less likely to participate in the labour market and to be here in the long term. Having family support in this country helps to retain skilled migrants, but fails to improve their employment prospects or income. The study’s results are consistent with previous research in New Zealand and highlight the fact that they generally settle well into the labour market. But the government’s policy settings could potentially better target some groups so it is easier for them to settle here. For groups of migrants experiencing lower levels of labour-market integration – such as international students – targeted settlement support services can facilitate their pathways into skilled jobs. Immigration New Zealand is currently working to provide extra support for them to improve their labour-market integration and retention prospects. Based on the research findings and a recent stocktake of settlement services, these skilled migrants have been identified as being the priority groups for New Zealand’s settlement and integration strategy. Visit www.mbie.govt.nz/ publications-research/ for more information on the report and other government information into the labour market.

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have been listed for $5,000. They are “factory 2007 BMW 7 series high-security armoured E67 specials with PAX rims with run-flat Michelin PAX tyres”. The car they came off was an E67 BMW “factory armoured with certificates”. www.autofile.co.nz

disputes

Buyer fails to prove importer took more than reasonable period to repair car Background Robert Latimer bought a new Alfa Romeo 159 Ti for $56,289 from Andrew Simms European on October 14, 2012. The vehicle’s overseas manufacturer didn’t have an ordinary place of business in this country. Because Ateco Group NZ Ltd imported and distributed it, the company was deemed to be the manufacturer for the purposes of section two of the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA). Latimer said the car’s airconditioning system failed to operate on January 19, 2015, and it wasn’t fully repaired until May 4. He sold the vehicle to Andrew Simms European for $24,000 on May 20, but sought compensation from Ateco for what he claimed was its failure to comply with the guarantee as to repairs and spare parts in section 12 of the CGA. Ateco said the industry standard for importing vehicle parts into New Zealand was 15-20 working days. It added a part it had to source from the Italian manufacturer was ordered by the trader on January 29. It was unavailable from the marque’s stock and had to be obtained from the supplier. It was received by Ateco, and invoiced and supplied to the dealer, on February 27, which was 20 working days after it was ordered by the dealer. Accordingly, Ateco denied breaching the CGA. The issues included whether Ateco took reasonable action to

ensure the parts were reasonably available for a reasonable period after the car was supplied for it to comply with section 12 of the CGA. If it did not, Latimer might have been entitled to obtain damages.

The case Latimer said the air-conditioning system stopped working on January 19 and he took the vehicle back to the trader three days later. Its service manager told him the system’s controller needed replacing and it would take 10 days to import it from Italy. On February 5, Latimer said the trader told him it would take a further month to source the part. He returned the vehicle to the dealer on March 16 to have the controller fitted and was told it had arrived on March 13 or 14. Latimer said he was informed on March 17 that the airconditioning compressor was faulty and a replacement needed to be imported from Australia. On March 31, he took the car back to the trader, which replaced the compressor and informed him on April 2 that the air-conditioning system had been fixed. Latimer collected the vehicle on April 4. Its air conditioning worked until April 19 and he returned it 10 days later. The trader took until May 4 to repair and road test it before it was collected the next day. He believed Ateco took more than a reasonable period of time to source the air-conditioning

controller, and sought damages of $3,000 for when the air conditioning didn’t function from January 19 to May 4. Latimer claimed Ateco breached the guarantee in section 12 of the CGA because it took Andrew Simms European two months to source a replacement air-conditioning controller. Mr L Harris, Ateco’s national service manager, said his company distributed Alfa Romeo vehicles and parts in New Zealand, but it wasn’t owned by the manufacturer of them and – because of the relatively small size of this country’s market for such models – it had little leverage with the marque. He said Ateco’s electronic records showed the dealer ordered the air-conditioning controller on January 29, and it was invoiced and supplied to the trader on February 27. The compressor was ordered by the dealer on March 19, and invoiced and supplied on March 24. Harris said it appeared there was a delay of five working days from January 22-29 in the trader placing the order because the 26th was a public holiday in Auckland. The controller was supplied to the dealer and invoiced on February 27, which was 20 working days later. Ateco supplied the compressor, which was sourced from Italy, four working days after it was ordered by the trader on March 19.

The team at wish you all the best for a safe and happy festive season, and here’s to another bumper year ahead in 2016 24 www.autofile.co.nz

haser The case: Theofpurc $3,000 for

sought damages the period between January 19 and May 4 this year when the air-conditioning system wasn’t functioning in his Alfa Romeo.

n: It took 20 The decisio for the trader

working days to be supplied with an airconditioning controller sourced from Italy and four working days for the compressor. The tribunal considered the parts were supplied to the dealer within a reasonable period and rejected the application. r Vehicles Disputes At: The Motoland . Tribunal, Auck

The finding The tribunal considered the time taken by other marques to import parts from outside New Zealand. Evidence given by Harris was based on his knowledge of the 1520 working days needed by Toyota to import them from Japan. The assessor, who was also familiar with the time taken to get parts from overseas, confirmed 15 working days was normal, but added manufacturers and importers often advised this could take 21 days. In the case, Ateco took 20 working days to supply the trader with an air-conditioning controller from Italy and four working days for the compressor. The tribunal considered both were supplied in a reasonable period even though the trader took from January 22 – when the vehicle was first presented – until May 4 to rectify it due to the faults’ technical complexity.

Order The application was dismissed. Latimer failed to prove Ateco took more than a reasonable period to source the parts.

disputes

Dealer’s technician crashed during test drive damaging car’s front and rear Background Vijay Negi bought a 1991 Nissan Skyline R32 GTR from 2 Cheap Cars last year. He claimed it was faulty and its paintwork had been poorly repaired. He wanted it replaced under the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA). The trader said it was willing to repair the bodywork. It added a replacement wasn’t reasonably available as part of its stock.

The case Negi took the car for a test drive before buying it on September 17, 2014, for $19,484 with the trader agreeing to replace its noisy brake pads. It had 87,363km on its odometer when supplied. He returned it two weeks later to have new pads fitted. The trader replaced them three or four times over two months, but the brakes were still noisy. Finally, the dealer decided to replace the brake rotors and Negi returned the car for that to be done on November 15. He said one of the trader’s technicians test drove the vehicle on the same day, and crashed it causing damage to its right front and left rear. The tribunal heard that Garry Moore, general manager, told Negi the trader would repair it. The buyer collected the vehicle at the end of November and was disappointed in the quality of the contractor’s paint job – particularly the right-front guard, which had small bubbles. The right-front bumper had been painted, but the

left-rear guard had not been. Negi said the dealer agreed to repaint affected areas. He was also dissatisfied because the intercooler had been oversprayed and paint on the front bumper was poorly applied. He obtained an estimate of $3,250 plus GST from The Body Shop to repair and repaint parts of the car. On July 21, 2015, San Ricco Ltd estimated $11,234 to repaint the car, which included $1,540 to recondition all the mag wheels. Negi said he had problems selecting fourth gear in May 2015, and paid Kaspa Transmissions $771 to fit a new clutch kit and machine the flywheel. He also had Spec2 Development remove and replace the gearbox with a second-hand one on May 18 for $1,670. Negi didn’t ask the trader to replace the clutch or transmission beforehand. Moore didn’t take information previously requested to the first hearing, which the tribunal adjourned for the dealer to better prepare. It requested it be sent this by August 25 for it to consider it before the second hearing on September 10. Unfortunately, the trader didn’t provide the information until the second hearing. The tribunal accepted the vehicle had minor faults with its paintwork and brakes. Moore produced invoices for repairs to and or the replacement of the paintwork, trim, brake pads, sub-frame following the accident by the trader’s employee, tyres, panel work and brake rotors

totalling $3,796. The front guard and bumper had been painted twice. Moore said the paintwork wasn’t perfect at the time of sale, and was consistent with the age and mileage of the vehicle, but the trader was prepared to make good areas that were considered to be unsatisfactory as a result of its employee’s accident. He added the dealer wasn’t prepared to refurbish all paintwork as the buyer claimed.

The finding The adjudicator took into account the vehicle was a 24-year-old import which had – according to its odometer – travelled 87,363km when it was sold for $19,484. The tribunal’s assessor examined the car after the first hearing. He considered the paint repairs to the front bumper, repairs and paintwork to the right-front guard, and overspray on the driver’s door were all poorly done. The tribunal accepted the brakes were noisy and not of acceptable quality when the car was supplied. It ruled the vehicle didn’t comply with the CGA because it wasn’t free of minor faults and wasn’t as durable as a reasonable consumer would regard as acceptable. The Skyline had relatively minor paintwork faults due to poor-quality repairs by the trader’s contractor after the crash the dealer’s employee had in November 2014. The tribunal considered there

buyer wanted The case: The ne replaced because his Nissan Skyli he was unhappy with the quality of work carried out on it. The dealer was willing to repair the bodywork, but didn’t consider there were grounds to reject the vehicle. The tribunal The decisioa n: car wasn’t

accepted such reasonably available as part of the dealer’s stock, but decided the purchaser was entitled to recover $900 for repairs. r Vehicles Disputes At: The Motoersto n North. Tribunal, Palm

was no evidence to show the entire vehicle needed repainting and considered the failure to comply with the guarantee of acceptable quality wasn’t substantial. It was unable to order the trader to supply another 1991 Nissan Skyline R32 GTR. Because the buyer hadn’t rejected it, he was unable to claim a replacement under section 23 of the CGA. Also, the tribunal accepted such a car wasn’t reasonably available as part of the trader’s stock. It decided the buyer was entitled to recover $300 for each of the following – the front bumper to be repainted and overspray removed from the intercooler mesh, the right-front guard prepared and painted, and the overspray on the driver’s door remedied.

Orders The trader had to pay the buyer $900 for repairs. The tribunal considered the claim should have been settled and resolution was delayed by the dealer failing to prepare for the first hearing. It ordered the trader to pay $500 for reasonable hearing costs.

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Brought to you by

the

d Auckland Hamilton Thames o Whangarei n Tauranga Rotorua Gi sborne Napi e r New Plymouth Wanganui Palmerston North Masterton Welli n gton Nelson Blenheim Greymouth

Aro

  xx% 0.6%

Total Total imported Used Imported used Cars cars

11,732 xx

Whangarei Auckland Hamilton Thames Tauranga Rotorua Gisborne Napier New Plymouth Wanganui Palmerston North Masterton Wellington Nelson Blenheim Greymouth Westport Christchurch Timaru Oamaru Dunedin Invercargill Whangarei Auckland Hamilton Thames Tauranga Rotorua Gisborne Napier New Plymouth Wanganui Palmerston North Wellington Nelson Blenheim NMasterton 5 Greymouth Thames o vWhangarei Auckland Hamilton e m b e r 2 01

8,115 xxxx

2014: 2014:8,063 8,517

Total Totalnew New cars Cars

2014:

xxx 11,532

 xx% 1.7%

Thames

Whangarei NEW: 201

2014: 157

USED: 259 2014: 207

 28.0%

NEW: 42

2014: 48

 12.5%

 25.1%

USED: 81

2014: 73

 11.0%

Auckland

Tauranga

NEW: 3,546 2014: 3,483  1.8%

NEW: 269

2014: 281

 4.3%

USED: 6,048 2014: 5,943  1.8%

USED: 464 2014: 437

 6.2%

Rotorua

Hamilton NEW: 356

2014: 393

USED: 656 2014: 719

 9.4%

NEW: 75

2014: 81

 7.4%

 8.8%

USED: 138

2014: 110

 25.5%

Gisborne

New Plymouth NEW: 90 USED: 157

2014: 107 2014: 175

 15.9%

NEW: 40

2014: 56

 28.6%

 10.3%

USED: 39

2014: 52

 25.0%

Napier

Wanganui NEW: 48

2014: 50

 4.0%

NEW: 174

2014: 176

 1.1%

USED: 64

2014: 62

 3.2%

USED: 235

2014: 216

 8.8%

Masterton

Palmerston North NEW: 170

2014: 206  17.5%

USED: 279

2014: 249

 12.0%

NEW: 39

2014: 32

 21.9%

USED: 54

2014: 47

 14.9%

Wellington

Nelson

2014: 604  2.0%

NEW: 96

2014: 82

 17.1%

NEW: 592

USED: 179

2014: 175

 2.3%

USED: 895 2014: 836

Blenheim

Westport NEW: 3

2014: 3

 0%

NEW: 34

2014: 50

 32.0%

USED: 8

2014: 7

 14.3%

USED: 45

2014: 51

 11.8%

Christchurch

Greymouth NEW: 17

2014: 19

 10.5%

NEW: 1,944 2014: 1,892  2.7%

USED: 38

2014: 47

 19.1%

USED: 1,531 2014: 1,604

 4.6%

Timaru NEW: 52

2014: 51

 2.0%

USED: 89

2014: 97

 8.2%

Oamaru NEW: 15

2014: 9

 66.7%

USED: 24

2014: 35

 31.4%

Dunedin NEW: 213

2014: 192

 10.9%

USED: 317

2014: 288

 10.1%

Invercargill NEW: 99

2014: 91

 8.8%

USED: 132

2014: 102

 29.4%

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Imported Passenger Vehicle Sales by Make - November 2015 Make

Nov'15

Nov'14

+/- %

Nov'15 Mkt Share

2015 YEAR TO DATE

2015 Mkt share

Imported Passenger Vehicle Sales by Model - November 2015 Make

Model

Nov'15

Nov'14

+/- %

Nov'15 Mkt Share

2015 YEAR TO DATE

2015 Mkt share

Toyota

2,793

2,727

2.4

23.8%

29,781

22.7%

Nissan

Tiida

672

800

-16.0

5.7%

5,839

4.5%

Nissan

2,168

2,467

-12.1

18.5%

22,612

17.3%

Mazda

Axela

583

529

10.2

5.0%

6,140

4.7%

Mazda

2,015

1,930

4.4

17.2%

21,393

16.3%

Mazda

Demio

531

500

6.2

4.5%

5,356

4.1%

Honda

1,321

1,096

20.5

11.3%

13,956

10.6%

Suzuki

Swift

520

572

-9.1

4.4%

6,585

5.0%

Suzuki

653

661

-1.2

5.6%

7,863

6.0%

Honda

Fit

488

304

60.5

4.2%

5,075

3.9%

Subaru

598

501

19.4

5.1%

7,241

5.5%

Subaru

Legacy

321

272

18.0

2.7%

3,876

3.0%

Bmw

429

0.0

3.7%

5,874

4.5%

Mazda

Atenza

308

290

6.2

2.6%

3,181

2.4%

Mitsubishi

407

425

-4.2

3.5%

4,872

3.7%

Toyota

Wish

287

229

25.3

2.4%

3,192

2.4%

Volkswagen

398

375

6.1

3.4%

4,943

3.8%

Volkswagen

Golf

225

219

2.7

1.9%

3,063

2.3%

Audi

186

197

-5.6

1.6%

2,598

2.0%

Toyota

Vitz

221

305

-27.5

1.9%

2,464

1.9%

Mercedes-Benz

179

213

-16.0

1.5%

2,489

1.9%

Mazda

Mpv

220

233

-5.6

1.9%

2,463

1.9%

Ford

112

131

-14.5

1.0%

1,516

1.2%

Toyota

Corolla

216

245

-11.8

1.8%

2,302

1.8%

Volvo

50.9

0.7%

851

0.6%

Toyota

Estima

207

222

-6.8

1.8%

1,980

1.5%

Lexus

103.4

0.5%

569

0.4%

Subaru

Outlander

200

176

13.6

1.7%

2,461

1.9%

Chevrolet

0.0

0.3%

579

0.4%

Honda

Odyssey

179

196

-8.7

1.5%

1,895

1.4%

Hyundai

5.3

0.3%

431

0.3%

Nissan

Murano

156

143

9.1

1.3%

1,479

1.1%

Holden

65.2

0.3%

405

0.3%

Mazda

Premacy

154

173

-11.0

1.3%

1,706

1.3%

Mini

16.7

0.3%

523

0.4%

Toyota

Ist

145

133

9.0

1.2%

1,436

1.1%

Jaguar

3.8

0.2%

412

0.3%

Nissan

Note

142

139

2.2

1.2%

1,654

1.3%

Land Rover

-21.4

0.2%

388

0.3%

Toyota

Prius

138

89.0

1.2%

1,191

0.9%

Daihatsu

75.0

0.2%

193

0.1%

Nissan

March

131

111

18.0

1.1%

1,221

0.9%

Dodge

-13.3

0.1%

208

0.2%

Honda

Accord

130

128

1.6

1.1%

1,452

1.1%

Jeep

200.0

0.1%

115

0.1%

Nissan

Bluebird

126

157

-19.7

1.1%

1,631

1.2%

Stream

124

31.9

1.1%

1,289

1.0%

0.0

0.1%

205

0.2%

Honda

Kia

200.0

0.1%

Toyota

Alphard

118

151.1

1.0%

853

0.7%

Porsche

-14.3

0.1%

142

0.1%

Nissan

Dualis

118

182

-35.2

1.0%

1,586

1.2%

Peugeot

Chrysler

25.0

0.0%

0.1%

Toyota

Blade

117

101

15.8

1.0%

1,188

0.9%

Cadillac

100.0

0.0%

Nissan

Wingroad

115

143

-19.6

1.0%

1,121

0.9%

Fiat

-33.3

0.0%

Toyota

Caldina

110

31.0

0.9%

1,043

0.8%

Alfa Romeo

200.0

0.0%

Toyota

Auris

108

149

-27.5

0.9%

1,315

1.0%

Lvv

300.0

0.0%

Nissan

Teana

107

118

-9.3

0.9%

1,219

0.9%

Mercury

300.0

0.0%

Subaru

Impreza

106

9.3

0.9%

1,313

1.0%

Pontiac

0.0

0.0%

Subaru

Outback

106

32.5

0.9%

1,256

1.0%

Buick

0.0

0.0%

Toyota

Mark x

103

108

-4.6

0.9%

1,357

1.0%

Verisa

102

50.0

0.9%

979

0.7%

34.9%

48,883

37.3%

100.0% 131,044

100.0%

Citroen

-50.0

0.0%

Mazda

Others

-23.5

0.2%

475

0.4%

Others

4,098

4,112

-0.3

11,732

11,532

1.7

100.0%

131,044

100.0%

Total

11,732

11,532

1.7

Total

www.heiwa-auto.co.nz 28 www.autofile.co.nz

Reliable.

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Used car market still buoyant F

irst-time registrations of used imported cars in New Zealand increased by 1.7 per cent during November when compared to those in the same month of last year. They rose from 11,532 to 11,732 units to bring the yearto-date total to 131,044 – up by 12 per cent from 117,475 by the same time in 2014. Nissan’s Tiida topped November’s ladder with 672 registrations. It was followed by two Mazdas – the Axela on 583 and Demio on 531. Toyota remained the bestselling marque on 2,793 units for a market share of 23.8 per cent last month. Second spot went to Nissan on 2,168 with Mazda third on 2,015 units. Peter Wilson, manager of Superior Cars in New Plymouth, says: “In terms of the Christmas holiday season, the past couple of years have been quiet but previous years were much more buoyant. “No matter what industry people are in, marketing is a big part of it and a lot of it comes down the use of the internet, which can impact on any business. “People are now turning away from their local papers as well because of the nature of online car sales. “It’s down to repeat business. We enjoy having our regulars come back and there’s no doubt the internet is an effective marketing tool.” Wilson notes a lot of new dealerships have been opening recently, which impacts on his sales figures.

“However, you need a reasonable budget to start up a car dealership and it’s a hard market to attack,” he told Autofile. “We don’t get a lot of call for sedans at the moment. It’s more about small-to-medium hatchbacks. Sedans are not all that popular and I can’t remember the last time we sold one. “It sounds like everyone is going into the bigger car market. There are lots of reasons for that and so much to choose from. “We are wholesalers, but still have the retail component so we

Wilson describes trade this year as having been “bouncy”. He adds: “New Plymouth is a bit out on a limb and isolated, but it’s what you make of it.” Nathan McColl, of Ross McColl Cars in Levin, says: “We probably pay a little bit more for lowkilometre vehicles, but they are what sell. “We try to stock Honda’s Fit and all those sorts of economy cars with our stock sitting in the $8,000 to $12,000 price bracket. “Stock sells based on our demographics of older people,

Used Imported Passenger Registrations - 2013-2015 14000 13000 12000 11000 10000 9000 8000

2013 2014

7000

2015

6000 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

try to push the whole package with warranties and servicing. “It gives that assurance to our customers. If people are buying off the internet, then they only get the bare unit – and a good one only if they are lucky. “Even though we are a bit more expensive, because we have to be, you just try to do the package – the after-care and all of that.”

Jul Aug Sep

Oct Nov Dec

who are looking for good-quality cars that should last for 10 years and still give them reliable transport. “They are concerned about kilometres. However, there are businesses in town that stock cars with higher kilometres and that’s their thing. Those cars move off the yard for different reasons. “Good stock for us to get

includes vehicles with low kilometres, perhaps slightly older but still of a good grade.” McColl says truck-style vehicles are selling well. “I can see that’s where the public are firmly looking, but we’ve really stuck to what we have been stocking because it works for us. “We stock Toyota RAV4s, Honda CR-Vs and lighter fourwheel-drive vehicles because they move off our yard. “The more recreational or commercial vehicles are $15,000 to $20,000, which is well above our target market’s budget. “But sales of those trucks have been fantastic and that’s where a good percentage of the public are buying. “We also tend to stock cars that have a lot higher seating positions and many models have gone this way. “Some of the older models tend to be too low for older people and it looks like manufacturers have now tried to design most of their newer vehicles with higher seats.” McColl’s overall impression of 2015 is that trade has been “quite patchy” for his business. “You are always trying to think of things to do to identify the reasons for that,” he adds. “The other factor is that the winter was bad. We found that older customers tended to stay indoors, hence some of the stock didn’t move as fast over that quarter. “We will get by and make money this year, but it hasn’t been a bumper year for us.”

Servicing New Zealand for 20 years contact:

Kei Mikuriya • mikuriya@heiwa-auto.co.jp www.autofile.co.nz

www.heiwa-auto.co.nz

Used car imports remain strong

onsumer confidence in New Zealand remains high despite some difficult buying conditions in Japan. That’s the verdict of David Vinsen, chief executive of Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (IMVIA). “Another year is almost gone so it’s a good time to look back on what’s happened and, generally, it has been a good year,” he says. “More than 140,000 used cars will have come into this country by the end of the year compared to about 95,000 new, so that’s an excellent result.” He notes about 146,000 vehicles have been scrapped so far in 2015

and describes this as “part of the “dynamics of the fleet”, and the way the fleet is refreshed and updated. “Despite the numbers coming in, it’s definitely more difficult than it has been to buy stock.” Vinsen puts this down to a number of factors, such as Japan’s domestic market for new cars softening and the exchange rate “not really being in our favour”. “But, on the upside, the most important thing we have is consumer confidence, which continues to be positive. This is driven by a number of things – interest rates are down, the wealth factor in our houses is up and there’s a bit more money around.”

Just over four years ago, Vinsen was sitting on a plane next to Alan Bollard, the-then governor of the Reserve Bank, just before the last Rugby World Cup. “He was talking about things that influence the Reserve Bank’s decisions about how to set interest rates. “I was being a bit of a smartass and said to him, ‘how do you factor in the world cup, whether we win or lose’. “He replied, ‘but we do factor that in’. The results of such events influence consumer confidence and that’s one of the things that drives interest rates. “We won the latest world cup,

so it’s probably already factored into interest rates. The Reserve Bank has indicated it’s likely we’ll get a couple of cuts next year, so we’re in the same position now as four years ago in terms of consumer confidence. “We think 2016 is going to be another good year for the industry – we are going to have goods volume once again.” Meanwhile, last month was huge for used imported cars with 12,387 crossing the border to bring the year-to-date total to 135,797. November was 2015’s biggest month for used light commercials with 575 imported to increase the total so far this year to 4,907.

Used import passenger vehicle arrivals 16000 15000 14000 13000 12000 11000 10000

2015

9000

2014

8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000

2013 2012

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Used Import Passenger Vehicles By Country Of Export 2015

2014

2013

Jun ’15

JuL ’15

Aug ’15

Sep ’15

Oct ’15

Nov ’15

Nov Share %

2015 Total

2014 TOTAL

2013 total

424

449

476

392

378

412

3.3%

4,381

3,167

1,990

108

0.5%

850

1,885

2,908

15,554

13,892

12,148

11,221

11,182

8,075

11,741

11,743

94.8%

128,849

130,770

100,784

0.5%

536

252

146

121

101

0.7%

958

1,278

1,205

Country of Export Jan ’15

Feb ’15

Mar ’15

Apr ’15

May ’15

Australia

258

407

414

359

Great Britain

110

9,635

9,357

14,301

Singapore

Usa

Japan

Other countries Total

0.1%

223

286

251

10,139

9,963

14,964

16,155

14,531

12,864

11,944

11,779

8,683

12,388

12,387

100.0%

135,797

137,638

107,284

www.heiwa-auto.co.nz contact: Kei Mikuriya mikuriya@heiwa-auto.co.jp

30 www.autofile.co.nz

Strictly Dealer Only anD true WhOleSale

Proud to sponsor the SecondHand Car Sales Statistics

Bumper month for dealer sales N

ovember produced positive results for traders across the country with sales of second-hand cars increasing by 9.4 per cent over the same month of last year. There were 18,194 dealer-topublic transactions last month, which were up from 16,638 in November 2014. Over the same timescale, trade-ins also rose – by 0.5 per cent from 12,065 to 12,125 – while public-to-public registrations went up by 5.3 per cent from 38,964 to 41,036. Westport topped the ladder for the biggest proportional increase in trader-to-public sales

with a 64.7 per cent climb from 17 to 28 units, while Christchurch placed second with a 32.2 per cent jump from 2,166 to 2,863. The biggest fall in transactions by dealers was seen in Greymouth where they dropped from 95 to 64, or by 32.6 per cent. This was followed by an 11.4 per cent decrease in Masterton from 184 to 163. Wanganui recorded the biggest increase in public-to-dealer registrations, of 22.9 per cent, where they went up from 96 to 118. Rotorua was second with a 21.1 per cent rise from 95 to 115. There were no trade-ins in Westport last month compared to three in November 2014 while

they halved in Oamaru to 12. Greg McCracken, dealer principal of Stephen Hill Motors in Hastings, says his business sells a range of used vehicles with some imported from Japan. “We are tracking very nicely at the moment,” he says. “We are up on last year. If I knew why, we would all be alright. You never really know why things get better or worse overall. “There seems to be a better feeling out in the market and we didn’t experience the slowdown in the winter like we would normally have done. “There hasn’t really been a bad month this year. Each month

has tracked along better than the previous one. “I don’t put it down to increased advertising or more stock. There just seems to be more buyers out there.” Bruce Lowe, of Rotorua Hyundai and Isuzu, describes the performance of used vehicles as “very hit and miss” recently. He says: “We had good figures in October, but the month prior to that it literally died. “The pay-out in respect to dairying that came out about three months ago appears to have had a huge impact on our market. “It was almost as if everything stopped when the report came out for sales of used vehicles.”

Secondhand car sales - November 2015 Dealer-To-Public

Public-To-Public

Public-To-Dealer

Nov '15

Nov '14

+/- %

MARKET SHARE

Nov '15

Nov '14

+/- %

Nov '15

Nov '14

+/- %

574

512

12.1

3.15

1,839

1,671

10.1

242

214

13.1

Auckland

6,078

5,623

8.1

33.41

14,714

13,901

5.8

4,538

4,363

4.0

Hamilton

1,376

1,359

1.3

7.56

3,150

2,970

6.1

1,053

1,038

1.4 -17.0

Whangarei

Thames

233

217

7.4

1.28

576

482

19.5

Tauranga

957

943

1.5

5.26

2,106

1,903

10.7

572

545

5.0

Rotorua

323

255

26.7

1.78

851

681

25.0

115

21.1 -31.9

Gisborne

178

187

-4.8

0.98

402

319

26.0

116

Napier

645

574

12.4

3.55

1,361

1,245

9.3

374

400

-6.5

New Plymouth

398

410

-2.9

2.19

915

905

1.1

215

221

-2.7

Wanganui

200

154

29.9

1.10

516

385

34.0

118

22.9

Palmerston North

717

730

-1.8

3.94

1,526

1,475

3.5

659

801

-17.7

Masterton

163

184

-11.4

0.90

434

373

16.4

101

-8.9

Wellington

1,512

1,419

6.6

8.31

2,616

2,715

-3.6

1,090

1,132

-3.7

Nelson

327

299

9.4

1.80

963

876

9.9

233

237

-1.7

Blenheim

177

0.0

0.97

416

357

16.5

146

-39.0

Greymouth

-32.6

0.35

170

188

-9.6

-15.4

Westport

64.7

0.15

-19.6

-100.0

2,863

2,166

32.2

15.74

4,997

5,123

-2.5

1,651

1,557

6.0

264

243

8.6

1.45

512

562

-8.9

173

143

21.0 -50.0

Christchurch Timaru Oamaru

-7.2

0.35

139

209

-33.5

Dunedin

672

612

9.8

3.69

1,835

1,620

13.3

409

444

-7.9

Invercargill

381

393

-3.1

2.09

924

912

1.3

289

243

18.9

18,194

16,638

9.4

100.00

41,036

38,964

5.3

12,125

12,065

0.5

NZ total

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new car sales New Passenger Vehicle Sales by Make - November 2015 Nov'15

Nov'14

+/- %

Nov'15 Mkt Share

2015 YEAR TO DATE

2015 Mkt share

Make

Model

Nov'15

Nov'14

Nov'15 Mkt 2015 YEAR Share TO DATE

+/- %

2015 Mkt share

Toyota

1,712

1,708

0.2

21.1%

16,355

18.6%

Toyota

Corolla

652

605

7.8

8.0%

6,045

6.9%

Holden

998

988

1.0

12.3%

9,489

10.8%

Toyota

Highlander

295

164

79.9

3.6%

2,294

2.6%

Mazda

737

613

20.2

9.1%

8,119

9.2%

Holden

Captiva

291

198

47.0

3.6%

2,299

2.6%

Hyundai

569

611

-6.9

7.0%

7,273

8.3%

Mazda

Cx-5

241

165

46.1

3.0%

2,394

2.7%

Ford

492

695

-29.2

6.1%

5,539

6.3%

Mazda

Mazda3

221

219

0.9

2.7%

2,365

2.7%

Nissan

406

321

26.5

5.0%

4,317

4.9%

Holden

Barina

215

102

110.8

2.6%

1,044

1.2%

Kia

340

154

120.8

4.2%

3,015

3.4%

Toyota

Yaris

212

340

-37.6

2.6%

2,319

2.6%

Suzuki

338

320

5.6

4.2%

3,947

4.5%

Hyundai

Santa Fe

187

172

8.7

2.3%

1,959

2.2%

Mitsubishi

327

417

-21.6

4.0%

5,161

5.9%

Holden

Commodore

183

232

-21.1

2.3%

2,579

2.9%

Honda

289

349

-17.2

3.6%

3,464

3.9%

Suzuki

Swift

180

218

-17.4

2.2%

2,111

2.4%

Volkswagen

286

308

-7.1

3.5%

3,557

4.0%

Toyota

Rav4

167

295

-43.4

2.1%

3,061

3.5%

Subaru

209

167

25.1

2.6%

2,168

2.5%

Toyota

Landcruiser Prado

152

141.3

1.9%

776

0.9%

Ssangyong

186

109.0

2.3%

1,466

1.7%

Mitsubishi

Lancer

143

55.4

1.8%

1,023

1.2%

Bmw

185

212

-12.7

2.3%

1,822

2.1%

Nissan

Qashqai

133

62.2

1.6%

1,442

1.6%

Mercedes-Benz

144

147

-2.0

1.8%

1,872

2.1%

Nissan

X-Trail

122

126

-3.2

1.5%

1,407

1.6%

Audi

124

204

-39.2

1.5%

1,700

1.9%

Honda

Jazz

121

241

-49.8

1.5%

1,808

2.1%

Fiat

93.6

1.1%

717

0.8%

Subaru

Outback

119

183.3

1.5%

1,123

1.3%

Jeep

-7.4

1.1%

1,336

1.5%

Kia

Sportage

112

128.6

1.4%

1,053

1.2%

Skoda

3.7

1.0%

968

1.1%

Ford

Focus

108

217

-50.2

1.3%

937

1.1%

Peugeot

-16.7

1.0%

726

0.8%

Mazda

Mazda2

103

150

-31.3

1.3%

1,398

1.6%

Land Rover

34.0

0.8%

855

1.0%

Holden

Cruze

101

234

-56.8

1.2%

1,421

1.6%

Mini

-14.5

0.7%

587

0.7%

Nissan

Pulsar

100

150.0

1.2%

593

0.7%

Lexus

3.6

0.7%

580

0.7%

Ford

Mondeo

10.3

1.2%

875

1.0%

117

-19.7

1.2%

1,291

1.5%

Volvo

83.3

0.7%

443

0.5%

Volkswagen Golf

Dodge

-44.1

0.4%

587

0.7%

Hyundai

Tucson

9100.0

1.1%

296

0.3%

Isuzu

333.3

0.3%

187

0.2%

Honda

Hr-V

9000.0

1.1%

428

0.5%

Porsche

-48.8

0.3%

437

0.5%

Mazda

Cx-3

8900.0

1.1%

878

1.0%

Jaguar

137.5

0.2%

165

0.2%

Mitsubishi

Outlander

150

-42.0

1.1%

1,663

1.9%

Chery

-11.1

0.2%

188

0.2%

Ssangyong

Tivoli

8100.0

1.0%

461

0.5%

Renault

-39.1

0.2%

175

0.2%

Hyundai

i30

-16.0

1.0%

977

1.1%

Alfa Romeo

62.5

0.2%

0.1%

Holden

Trax

-24.2

0.9%

831

0.9%

Citroen

-63.0

0.1%

210

0.2%

Hyundai

imax

109

-33.0

0.9%

159

0.2%

Yamaha

900.0

0.1%

100

0.1%

Toyota

Camry

0.9%

806

0.9%

Can-Am

300.0

0.1%

Ssangyong

Korando

0.9%

676

0.8%

0.1%

Suzuki

Vitara

-50.0 autopo71rt.net 142 71 7.6 h66e Whangarei tAuckland Hamil c

0.8%

255Biggest increases/Decr 0.3% eases

87,987

0.3% 100.0%

Others Total

8000 7500

36,940

100.0%

87,987

westport thames napier

wanganui gisborne timaru

100.0%

 100.0%  51.2%  34.1%

 27.7%  26.8%  23.7%

Blenheim nelson rotorua

Used

J J

A

westport Masterton timaru

Used

  

Used Vehicle RegistRatiOns

New versus used

North IslaNd versus south IslaNd

7000

9000

6000

Used 8545

8000

5000

New

7962

7000

6000

3000

2000

South Island

Nov ‘12

SEP ‘13

Oct ‘13

JuL ‘13

AuG ‘13

JuN ‘13

MAy ‘13

FEb ‘13

APr ‘13

MAr ‘13

JAN ‘13

APr ‘13

1000

4000

FEb ‘13

Oct Nov Dec y Jun Jul Aug Sep Jan Feb Mar Apr Ma

North Island

4000

5000

Nov ‘12

5500

PassengeR Vehicle RegistRatiOns

10000

DEC ‘12

6000

Biggest decreases

new

JAN ‘13

2012

42.0%

MAr ‘13

6500

Biggest increases

new

DEC ‘12

2013

By town year-on-year

ConneCt & engage 7000

(OctOber 2013 vs OctOber 2012)

35.6%

c t o b e r 2 0 13

mo am 1,4 th 11

JuL ‘13

100.0%

255

Oc hig

AuG ‘13

0.6

0.2%

JuN ‘13

8,063 8500

-55.8

MAy ‘13

8,115

43 0 900

0.1%

try

Total

66.7

ton Thames Tauranga Rotorua Gisborne0 Napier 6800.0 New Plymouth 68 Palmerston Wanganui North Masterton Wellington Nelson Blenheim Greymouth Whangarei Auckland Hamilton Thames3,153 Tauranga Rotorua Gisborne 2,892 -8.3 Napier New Plymouth Wanganui Palmerston North Masterton Wellington Nelson Blenheim Greymouth 8,115 8,063 Westport Christchurch Timaru Oamaru Dunedi0.6 n Invercargill Whangarei Auckland Hamilton Thames Tauranga Rotorua Gisborne Napier New Plymouth Wanganui Palmerston North Masterton Wellington Nelson Blenheim Greymouth Whangarei AucklandoHamilton Thames Tauranga Rotorua

Aroun

Others

9503 0

Maserati

10000

The TRUSTED online wholesale trading site.

SEP ‘13

Make

New Passenger Vehicle Sales by Model - November 2015

8500

Used imPORt PassengeR Vehicle RegistRatiOns by city

aucklaNd, wellINgtoN, chrIstchurch

4500

hamIltoN, tauraNga, duNedIN, PalmerstoN North

8000

4320

600

4000

3000 hicles sold

32 www.autofile.co.nz

Auckland

2000

500

7500

Hamilton

400

2500

7000

icles sold

3500

300

Tauranga

new car sales

Consumer trends differ in regions A

Toyota was also the top marque the RAV4 has been enhanced and businessman has noticed over the world, which is always with a 21.1 per cent market share Highlander sales have been strong. distinct trends emerging good for the local economy. and 1,712 registrations of new “The Prado and LandCruiser at the three locations he “The feeling is that the logging cars. It was followed by Holden on 200 series have had new models, runs car dealerships from. industry is more stable. We 998 units and Mazda with 737. so we’re looking forward to next Dean Nicholson is the chief haven’t had the big slump we “As far as year-on-year turnover year because it’s going to be an executive officer of Nicholson were worried about. We’ve gone goes, we are similar to last year and exciting time.” Motors, which holds franchises back to normal.” that has been significant for us,” Michael Meyer, dealer principal for Holden and Suzuki. He “Mazda continues to make says Tony Bowater, chief executive of Autohaus Rotorua, which has has premises in Morrinsville, the most of its range of desirable officer of Bowater Toyota. franchises for Ford and Mazda, Matamata and Whakatane. vehicles,” says Jim Gibbons, chairman “Overall, the market in Nelson says: “Word of mouth works for “We will be building a new of the Colonial Motor Company. has been steady. With Toyota, us in terms of foot traffic and, branch at Whakatane in 2016,” “Ford has several new we are fortunate to have good after being here for 20 years now, he told Autofile. “This is a good products that should have leadership. It’s a forward-thinking reputation is a big part of it. indicator of how sales are going a positive impact and new company, which has been pushing “Increases in house sales here for us and we have noticed desirable product is always good the network along fairly strongly. have been needed because for a different trends at our sites. for our dealerships.” “The dealership in Matamata, These have included the New Passenger Registrations - 2013-2015 which is two years old, has really launch of the refreshed Ranger taken off in regards to sales, and and all-new Everest, while pre10000 2013 that’s to do with tourism and some ordered Mustangs arrived in New 9500 2014 big money being spent in the area. Zealand a few weeks ago. 2015 9000 “In Morrinsville, we started “We are also seeing growth in very well for the year, but as soon our city dealerships, while provincial 8500 as the dairy issue hit we noticed a and rural dealerships are finding it 8000 downturn in sales. more difficult,” adds Gibbons. “All of our yards have Alistair Douglas, sales 7500 experienced different sales this manager of Rotorua Toyota, says: 7000 year, but we are pretty positive – “It has been hard to keep up with 6500 especially about our new facility demand for vehicles. The Corolla in Whakatane.” hatchback has always been the 6000 Nationally, November resulted xxxxxxxxx most popular car. 5500 xxxxxxxxxxx in another record being notched “We are seeing the transition Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec up with 8,115 new passenger to SUVs and the Highlander vehicles. is very popular. There is some always been the way. units, are more static with their 1996, it has ebbed and flowed.” of stock held he amount sales. boosting are “It has been an interesting year time Rotorua had been somewhat Christchurch The total was up by 52 units when growth in the small-car market global oversupply the can after “You did come down holding not changing too much. that dropped to this year’s low of Used car stock levels are tock levels of new cars have by used car dealers during “Trades people are upgrading buying conditions are good, but financial crisis [GFC]. A drop of 50 units may not be 18,653 in January. traditionally based on what’s increased every month October was the highest their vehicles,” says Crawford. normally corrects levels then increased of the marketplace “Stocking vary can stock executive But chief drastic. too Crawford, David many ups and downs. For Nelson, stagnant. We weren’t going – or by 0.6 per cent – compared what with sales of the new Yaris going and with Japan in year, this happening except one monthly total of the year. or “Although passenger cars aren’t so again and they respond to the enormously by proportion on yards itself by pulling back from Japan officer of the Motor Industry consumers are buying here. ctober’s total of 29,509 being the There were 10,374 units hot, SUVs are. selling down. The numbers might number of new vehicles sold and with 30 to 40 cars. Association (MIA), says current Conditions there have improved ghest of 2013. a with month last imported though, I think the advantage of backwards, but we certainly to 8,063 registrations in the same really well.” market “People in the housing drop for a month or two before the rate at which they are sold. “They can suddenly be selling models aren’t sitting around in recently and the exchange rate There were 7,962 sales last variance of 1,829 on 8,545 sales. are refinancing their mortgages trundling up again. “They basically go up when without having bought for a few too long. has gone up. onth, also this year’s biggest The number of cars in stock big-ticket items especially to buy not so sure “There’s no magic supply-chain up, but I’m its sheltered economy amounted has stood didn’t move forward either. month stock of“Thefor2014 toto manage makesalesitgothe best He notes it is now becoming 10-15 units down weeks and being industry tends “October and November are mount, while the variance was to 9,323 compared to about confident are they when for miracle. When it’s slow, it tends to be makes them more susceptible,” stock levels quite well and does this about the days stock is held normally difficult for the industry, 400 with 9,362 units imported – September. in 7,494 keeping their jobs.” slow for everybody. If you can get being longer and can’t explain that. us told Autofile. Macdonald. out,” herecord, says day in, dayon go to after tends stockpile the so in good stead overall for sales “That’s where we are bucking November according easier to employ good staff. he second highest amount other two been There have All that said, some of the good supply with a good exchange “Average sales per day came “Dealers then jump online to “My data suggests this is a up,” says Macdonald. “But trade 1,065 imports in August. major increases during 2013 – with regional centres, such as Hawke’s rate, everyone benefits.” down during the GFC and before buy more from Japan, but that’s cyclical thing and levels were no swings up over Christmas and the The total stock figure at the variances between imports and sales the aren’t North, of new vehicles. trend against the rest of the to the Motor Industry Association. Palmerston “Because the infrastructure is and Bay ” that they were much higher. higher in previous years, but they holidays, so it goes down. nd of December was 20,683 and of 3,121 in April and 2,507 in May. showing as much growth as If 80,000 vehicles are sold one “December and January are Graeme Macdonald, chairman imports in New Zealand - Oct 2013 used car of are stock centres. Dealer other“This year and 100,000 are sold the is because we have five country – it feels like we finally Toyota had the two best-selling there to travel to other centres, because good months for sales of the North Island branch of the “But 80 per cent of New Zealand’s following year, the average sales Dealer stock of new cars in New Zealand - Oct 2013 people take time off work, the kids Imported Motor Vehicle Industry 2012 population is in Auckland and per day should be higher – and have little boost. people may are off school andour the current says primary industries that keep having own models last month with its Corolla Association, people are prepared to live here. Christchurch. 2012 the MIA is expecting more new stockpile should correct itself – as it Christmas bonuses or holiday pay. “If you add in Dunedin and vehicles to be sold this year than “It’s a time when Kiwis tend to normally does. cover a national these centres usWellington, afloat when factors “At this time of year, we see topping the ladder thanks to2012.652 “Also, housing is affordable during make financial decisions, so dealers “If the monthly stockpile was large proportion of the population There were 54,404 sales in 2009, need to have plenty of stock to 10,000 on a regular basis it means and all have strong economies.” 64,019 in 2011 62,029 in 2010, aren’t so good.” the first tourist buses coming registrations. The Highlander was and you can still drive from one match demand. there are solid holding numbers,” Year to date, 77,438 new cars and 76,871 in 2012, and the MIA is “When the market’s down in he told Autofile. “North of that 68,612 and imported been have passenger 82,000 about predicting get. When Japan, stock is hard to looking at an be would we and a Bowater describes SUVs as the through and more frequently. a distant second on 295 while give side of the city to the other in to registered been have vehicle and SUV sales this year. it’s buoyant, you tend to buy what oversupply issue. variance of 8,826 so far this year. “We’re looking at about 30,600 you can because you don’t know “There was good buying in Japan at hand has stockwinner Days with and we’re on light commercials clear the this year”, while There are people coming from all Holden’s Captiva came third on 291. about 10 minutes.” 17% what will be available next time. in March, and we saw high arrival been steadily increasing from 78 in New Passe or 113,000 new

Annual high for stockpile

Industry manages levels well

NeW CArS SoLd

Imported

dAyS AVerAge SALeS per StoCk dAy - ytd At hANd

StoCk

VArIANCe

USed ImportS VArIANCe SoLd

StoCk

dAyS AVerAge SALeS per StoCk dAy - ytd At hANd

8,579

Total stock at the end of December 2011 3,191

6,375

(3,184)

5,395

206

5,026

7,499

(2,473)

10,511

242

Feb ‘12

4,920

6,000

(1,080)

4,315

210

Feb ‘12

7,368

5,633

1,735

12,246

223

Mar ‘12

6,504

6,429

4,390

209

Mar ‘12

7,228

6,499

729

12,975

218

Apr ‘12

6,613

5,877

736

5,126

206

Apr ‘12

6,285

5,430

855

13,830

209

May ‘12

7,693

6,793

900

6,026

208

May ‘12

7,742

5,942

1,800

15,630

205

Jun ‘12

6,947

6,184

763

6,789

208

‘12 Jun  95.5% ‘12 Jul  64.9%  52.0% ‘12 Aug

8,870

7,142

1,728

17,358

211

Jul ‘12

5,335

6,641

(1,306)

5,483

209

7,894

6,208

1,686

19,044

209

Aug ‘12

5,540

6,621

(1,081)

4,402

210

8,589

5,959

2,630

21,674

207

105

6,222

(716)

3,686

209

Sep ‘12

6,828

6,637

191

21,865

209

105

Oct ‘12

8,155

7,336

819

22,684

211

107

12,984

128

220

31 Oct

6,769

34,559

220

34,293

222

4,237 Yokohama 6,828

100

21 Oct 80 138

157 22 Oct 60

1 Nov

2013

Mitsubishi

15 Nov

Honda

16 Nov

2012

Volkswagen

Kia

17 Nov

158

Wellington 68,612

Lyttelton 82,380

8,826

7 Nov

13- Nov

16 Nov

17 Nov

4 Dec

23 Nov

11 Dec

29 Nov

11 Dec

BMw

Subaru

Audi

Mercedes-Benz

Peugeot

Jeep

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Ssangyong

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Lexus

Land Rover Ship your motor vehicles on Armacup vessels andMini you Chery can earn seamiles points for

Dec

226

oct

35,693

nov

(266)

sep

go to www.autofile.co.nz/subscribe for the latest industry news TARGETED ADVERTISING SPACE 154

7,272

Auckland 1,400 7,962

JUL

77,438

2013 predicted sales

1,654

30,322

120

aUG

Oct ‘13

ytd total

30 Oct

130

JUn

20 Oct

apr

Dec ‘13

132

220

may

Nov ‘13

125

214

28,668

Feb

9,362

1805

216

28,159

mar

7,006

Oct ‘13

27,077

509

Jan

11,065

Sep ‘13

25,594

1,082

Dec

Aug ‘13

(471)

1,483

oct

8,423

6,347

nov

Jul ‘13

6,800

5,908 Osaka 7,542 Nagoya

sep

Jun ‘13

8,051

JUL

7,429

Hyundai Mazda

Nissan Morning Miracle Suzuki V5

aUG

7,391

May ‘13

Sepang Express V9

JUn

6,329

Apr ‘13

Ford

LATEST SCHEDULE

apr

Mar ‘13

223

may

7,027

6740

238

26,065

(2,030)

Feb

Feb ‘13

24,837

7,385

180

160 104 Hoegh Xiamen 117 140 115V20 222

Port 1,228 5,799Calls

mar

5,355

Days stock in nZ - new cars

Subscribe - FREE 26,867

Total stock at the end of December 2012 Jan ‘13

dAyS AVerAge SALeS per StoCk dAy - ytd At hANd

StoCk

VArIANCe

Days of stock

NeW CArS SoLd

Imported

Make

Toyota

Holden

850 wds

Payment protection

119

211

12% 14% 13%

GAP

212

26,867

Insurance

25,153

1,714

13,883

Jan

2013

2,469

6,102

76,871

6,484

7,816

January to 131 in October. Last year 90,754 units were imported and there were 76,871 sales for a variance of 13,883.

5,506

12 nger VehicleMay 211 2,507 (1,179) 6,867 5,688 Sales need to bear in Oct ‘12 by Make - “Dealers and June. numbers in April, Novemalso ber 2013 18 213 3,810 1,303 8,486 ‘12 nger Vehic Passe mind it takes four to six weeks to New Nov “The stockpile occurs more at le Sales7,183 by Mode 14 Nov '13 215 (705)l - 3,105 Nov '12 Novem 7,119 Nov '13 6,414 ber ” +/‘12 Dec Japan. 2013 % from stock get 2013 Mkt certain times of the year. Since Mkt Share 2013 total (5,474) 78,311 Share 72,837 Model say 300 Make ytd total Larger operations, of in Nov '13 Nov '12 +/back into the I came1746 Nov Mkt 2013 2013 Mkt 1190industry46.7 % 23.4% Share total 14670 19.3% Share dAyS AVerAge Toyota Corolla 685 USed ImportS 673 StoCk SALeS per StoCk 1.8 35.5 Imported626 SoLd462 VArIANCe 9.2%import8102 cars 8.4% dAy5283 2013 Days stock in nZ - UseD hANd 10.7% - ytd At 6.9% Toyota RAV4 618 596 289 3.7 80 261.3 8.3% 3105 3.9% 2521 6519 at the end of December 2012 8.6% 3.3% 180 Holden Total stock Commodore 572 624 260 -8.3 0.7 171 239 7.7% 176 52.0 (2,929) 7,397 4,468 6695 3.5% 2399 8.8% 3.2% Mazda Jan ‘13Cx-5 160 512 6 243 485 1,501 1,325 6,922 239 8,247 5.6 141 Feb ‘13 6.9% 69.5 5447 3.2% 1989 7.2% 11 243 2.6% Toyota Mar ‘13 2,772 1,271 7,581 Liberty 140 382 8,852 yaris 281 35.9 227 267 -15.0 5.1% 3342 4.4% 5,893 2235244 2.9%24 3,121 3.0% 7,418 10,539 Suzuki Apr ‘13 V1 Swift 120 376 405 -7.2 218 34 250 5.0% 254 8,400 2,507 2.9% 8,460 -14.2 4436 10,967 May ‘13 5.8% 2750 3.6% Ford 351 34 Mondeo 252 272 8,627 227 7,862 29.0 8,089 184 Jun ‘13 4.7% 29100Nov 98 87.8 3661 2.5% 1201 261 1.6%29 4.8% 7,621 (1,006) Hyundai Jul ‘13 9,629 310 8,623 ix35 312 -0.6 80 168 4.2% 81 107.4 (13) 2.3% 2994 3.9% 7,608 1338 263 1.8% 29 8,648 8,635 30 Nov ‘13 Aug Mitsubishi 288 261 Lancer 10.3 29 168 262 3.9% 60 7,494 (114) 7,615 84 3527 7,501 100.0 Sep ‘13 4.6% 2.3% 894 Toyota 202 263 1.2% 35 240 9,323 1,829 8,545 -15.8 1 Dec 2013 10,374 ‘13 Oct Camry 2.7% 168 131 40 2563 28.2 3.4% - 1.7% - 2.3% - 1270 172 Holden ‘13 NovCaptiva 178 -3.4 2.3% 135 1861 319 - -57.7 20 2.4% 19 Dec - 1.8% - 2039 ‘13 2012 2.7% 165 Volkswagen DecGolf 153 7.8 2.2% 134 80,077 30.1 6,218 1645 86,295 103 ytd total 2.2% 0 1.8% 1469 1.9% 163 Toyota 26 Dec 150 Highland 96,145 8.7 er sales predicted 2013 2.2% 118 1748 79 2.3% 49.4 1.6% 1092 1.4% 128 Ford 82 Focus 56.1 1.7% 114 1398 29 Dec 212 -46.2 1.8% 1.5% 1429 108 1.9% Honda 60 80.0 Jazz 1.4% 113 1001 1.3% 1.5% COMMERCIAL STATISTICS76 48.7 922 92 OF THE NEW AND USED 1.2% 65 SPONSORSHIP Ford 41.5 Kuga 1.2% 775 1.0% 18 522.2 FOR YOUR BUSINESS 112 AVAILABLE PAGES IS NOW 1.5% 952 86 1.3% 49 Mazda 75.5 Mazda3 1.2% 724 109 1.0% 151 -27.8 1.5% 1537 64 2.0% 46 le.co.nz Toyota 39.1all enquiries 775 or email on 021 455 Aurionbrian@autofi107 0.9% contact For 478 Brian0.6% 23 365.2 1.4% 447 63 0.6% 56 Holden 12.5 Cruze 0.8% 654 106 0.9% 80 32.5 1.4% 1925 54 2.5% 44 Hyundai 22.7 0.7% Santa Fe 508 103 0.7% www.autofile.co.nz | 27 261 -60.5 1.4% 1847 51 22 2.4% 131.8 Honda 0.7% Civic 443 0.6% 100 115 -13.0 1.3% 44 852 43 1.1% 2.3 Mitsubis hi 0.6% Outland 474 er 0.6% 97 118 -17.8 1.3% 1258 34 21 1.7% 61.9 Hyundai 0.5

TWO SAILINGS PER MONTH JAPAN TO NZ

8,953 90,754

Days of stock

Nov ‘12  41.7% Dec ‘12  20.0% ytd total  12.4%

Sep ‘12

track for 112,000 vehicle sales overall.” Business confidence being high and strong regional economies in Auckland and

Finance

Jan ‘12

MIA stock estimate as at end of December 2011

22% 9% 8500

www.autofile.co.nz 33 8000

16%

7500

New P

new cars Passenger Car and SUV Sales by Private/Business split Make

Private

% Private

Business

% Business

Total

69.2

30.8

Alfa Romeo Aston Martin

100.0

0.0

43.5

56.5

124

100.0

0.0

BMW

28.6

132

71.4

185

Chery

87.5

12.5

Chrysler

33.3

66.7

Citroen

80.0

20.0

Dodge

30.3

69.7

Fiat

53.8

46.2

Ford

165

33.7

324

66.3

489

Audi Bentley

Holden

188

18.8

810

81.2

998

Honda

230

79.6

20.4

289

Hyundai

104

18.3

465

81.7

569

Isuzu

38.5

61.5

Jaguar

66.7

33.3

Jeep

26.4

73.6

Kia

*Business sales include rental and government sales, and the totals include passenger cars and SUVs. SOURCE: MIA

161

47.4

179

52.6

340

Land Rover

53.0

47.0

Lexus

31.6

68.4

Lotus

0.0

100.0

McLaren

100.0

0.0

20.0

80.0

304

41.4

431

58.6

735 143

Maserati Mazda Mercedes-Benz

32.2

67.8

100.0

0.0

Mini

32.2

67.8

Mitsubishi

205

62.7

122

37.3

327

Nissan

193

47.5

213

52.5

406

Peugeot

43.8

56.3

Porsche

50.0

Renault

42.9

57.1

Skoda

17.9

82.1

SsangYong

23.7

142

76.3

186

Subaru

100

47.8

109

52.2

209

Suzuki

235

69.5

103

30.5

338

Toyota

229

13.4

1,482

86.6

1,711

Volkswagen

115

40.2

171

59.8

286

Volvo

32.7

67.3

Other

66.7

33.3

Total

2,725

33.7

5,356

66.3

8,081

Change in rankings for luxury marques M ercedes-Benz is set to secure the title of New Zealand’s most popular luxury car marque of 2015 after being 50 units ahead of BMW by the end of last month. BMW had sold 2,013 passenger vehicles by the end of November 2014, while its total for this year so far comes in at 1,822. This compares to MercedesBenz’s 1,719 and 1,872 respectively to claim the top spot. Audi is third with 1,700 year-todate registrations. It had sold 1,979 units by this time last year and 2,075 during the whole of 2014. The all-new all-wheel-drive GLC, which officially went on sale at dealerships this month, is likely to cement MercedesBenz’s position at the top ladder for prestige marques when December’s sales are announced. The SUV is built off the platform of the C-Class sedan and wagon – already the most popular model sold in this country by the marque, which is confident the GLC will help it to extend its lead over BMW. Matt Bruce, of Mercedes-Benz NZ, says: “Our SUV sales are up 30 per cent year on year, so what better time to launch the GLC.” He adds it is the most important model the marque has launched this year because it allows it to enter the mediumsized SUV sector that up until now has been dominated by BMW’s X3 and Audi’s Q5. It replaces the GLK, which was

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34 www.autofile.co.nz

never available in New Zealand because it wasn’t built for righthand-drive (RHD) markets but has proved to be popular globally with about 700,000 registrations. The GLC means MercedesBenz has a line-up of SUVs covering all size categories. It may become the most popular because its three-model SUV range features something absent from its main opposition – a petrol variant – while the GLC’s average prices are lower than its BMW and Audi competitors. Bruce forecasts the new GLC will achieve about 200 sales a year with the 250d being the most popular. “It will be interesting to see how sales of the petrol model go,” he adds. “We believe there are a number of potential customers who have what we would describe as a petrol mentality.” Earlier this year, Jerry Stamoulis, of Mercedes-Benz Australia-Pacific, predicted high global demand for RHD versions of the GLC. “The UK, Australia and New Zealand will be fighting for available stock. It’s going to be fun.” Last month, Mercedes-Benz sold 143 units in this country, of which 97 – or 67.8 per cent – were to businesses. BMW notched up 185 registrations in November with 71.4 per cent, or 132 units, bought by businesses. Audi came third with 43.5 per cent, or 54 units, of its total of 124 being private transactions.

new vehicles

Industry records to be broken T

he market for new vehicles is set for a record year with sales rising by 4.2 per cent in November compared to the same month in 2014 along with steady growth of 5.3 per cent so far in 2015. So far this year, there have been 123,816 units sold compared to 117,753 by this time in 2014. “Registrations are already the second highest for any year,” says David Crawford, of the Motor Industry Association. “They have eclipsed the previous second highest annual total of 123,247 in 1984 and are only 3,363 behind last year’s record

of 127,179. The total for 2015 will break 130,000 units for the first time by some margin.” While unlikely to regain the title of New Zealand’s best-selling ute from Ford’s Ranger this year, the all-new Hilux, which was available from December 1, is sure to boost market figures. “It will hit the sweet spot for a wide range of customers,” says Spencer Morris, Toyota NZ’s general manager of product. He believes the Hilux inspires “go-anywhere confidence as a tough truck” for rural, forestry and civil-engineering buyers,

NEW VEHICLE SALES BY BUYER TYPE - November 2015

“yet offers an enjoyable drive for everyday running about”. Its line-up is “set to break more industry records” while the delay in its introduction has resulted from its re-engineering. “The outgoing model was more car-like,” says Morris. “We’ve built on these features and strengthened its reputation for toughness.” Steve Prangnell, general manager of sales and operations, adds: “Our extended range for 2016 featuring new two-wheel-drive [2WD] automatics and pre-runner models give us a good chance of regaining number one in that

segment for overall light-truck category leadership. “We now have the most extensive range with proven success in the 4WD category and a compelling 2WD line-up too,” says Prangnell, who stresses the marque will avoid a discounting war. He predicts a decline in newvehicle sales next year of at least eight per cent, but expects the marque’s market share to remain at 21 per cent. Toyota NZ anticipates selling about 5,400 utes in 2016 with about 63 per cent being 4WD. Nearly 90 per cent will be double cabs – up from 77 per cent a decade ago.

NEW VEHICLE MARKET SEGMENTATION - November 2015

Nov '15

Nov '14

Mth %

2015 YTD

2014 YTD

% YTD

Nov '15

Nov '14

Mth% diff

2015 YTD

2014 YTD

Passenger

4,245

4,830

-12.1

45,620

48,511

-6.0

Passenger

4,245

4,830

-12.1

45,620

48,511

-6.0

Private

1,397

1,597

-12.5

16,890

17,645

-4.3

SUV

3,836

3,173

20.9

41,790

34,865

19.9

Business

1,361

1,901

-28.4

18,970

21,614

-12.2

Light Commercial

3,048

2,628

16.0

31,135

28,998

7.4

Heavy Commercial

409

434

-5.8

4,416

4,604

-4.1

-4.7

855

595

43.7

11,620

11,151

4.2

123,816

117,573

5.3

Gov’t Rental SUV

154

139

10.8

2,084

2,204

-5.4

1,333

1,193

11.7

7,676

7,048

8.9

3,836

3,173

20.9

41,790

34,865

19.9

Other Total market

% YTD

Private

1,328

1,067

24.5

15,864

13,518

17.4

Micro

135

159

-15.1

1,858

1,707

8.8

Business

1,614

1,430

12.9

18,803

17,396

8.1

Light

1,180

1,455

-18.9

13,294

13,336

-0.3

-23.9

677

697

-2.9

Small

1,835

1,997

-8.1

18,219

21,029

-13.4

98.1

Medium

591

680

-13.1

6,572

6,412

2.5

Large

290

305

-4.9

3,921

4,125

-4.9

Gov’t Rental

843

Light Commercial Private Business Gov’t Rental Sub Total Private Business Gov’t Rental

609

38.4

6,446

3,254

3,048

2,628

16.0

31,135

28,998

7.4

720

634

13.6

7,759

6,797

14.2

2,085

1,801

15.8

21,016

20,253

3.8

135

123

9.8

1,261

1,271

-0.8

People Movers Sports SUV Small

-31.6

211

290

-27.2

151

132

14.4

640

642

-0.3

-39.8

905

970

-6.7

983

840

17.0

12,297

9,583

28.3

108

54.3

1,099

677

62.3

SUV Medium

1,209

1,243

-2.7

14,868

12,976

14.6

11,129

10,631

4.7

118,545

112,374

5.5

SUV Large

1,577

1,058

49.1

14,188

11,880

19.4

3,445

3,298

4.5

40,513

37,960

6.7

SUV Upper Large

109.4

437

426

2.6

91.9

736

544

35.3

5,060

5,132

-1.4

58,789

59,263

-0.8

Light Buses

340

329

3.3

4,022

4,172

-3.6

Vans

424

369

14.9

4,680

5,119

-8.6

Pick Up/Chassis Cab 4x2

992

757

31.0

9,694

8,811

10.0

Pick Up/Chassis Cab 4x4

1,561

1,465

6.6

16,025

14,524

10.3

409

434

-5.8

4,416

4,604

-4.1

-4.7

855

595

43.7

11,620

11,151

4.2

123,816

117,573

5.3

2,284

1,872

22.0

15,221

10,979

38.6

409

434

-5.8

4,416

4,604

-4.1

Other

-4.7

855

595

43.7

Total

11,620

11,151

4.2

123,816

117,573

5.3

Heavy Commercial

Upper Large

Call

Heavy Commercial Other Total market

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new commercial sales

Utes lead commercial charge T

here were 3,511 new light commercial vehicles sold in November, which was up by 12.8 per cent compared to the same month of 2014. Year-to-date registrations now stand at 36,009, which is a 6.2 per cent increase over the same time last year. Ford’s Ranger was November’s top model on 690 units. It was followed by Toyota’s Hilux on 683 and Holden’s Colorado with 269. Year to date, the blue oval’s ute leads the way with a market share of 17.3 per cent and 6,224 sales. The Hilux is second on 5,213 units with Colorado third with 3,281. The rise in utes’ popularity is illustrated by the Ranger also being New Zealand’s overall leading model

2013

4250 4000

2014

3750

2015

3500 3250 3000 2750 2500 2250 2000 1750 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

with the Corolla trailing it by 179 units. Toyota topped last month’s ladder for marques by selling 901 commercials – or 26 per cent of the market. It was followed by Ford with 769 and Holden on 290.

Nov'15

Nov'14

+/- %

Nov'15 Mkt Share

Jul Aug Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Bruce Lowe, of Rotorua Hyundai and Isuzu, says: “Forestry has always been a bit hit and miss, and the guys tend to stick to Toyota product, but we are now seeing a slight shift to other brands.

New Commercial Sales by Model - November 2015

New Commercial Sales by Make - November 2015 Make

“Our Isuzu ute brand was always going to grow. Coupled with smart marketing techniques from head office, there is a lot of foot traffic coming through the door. “I think it’s going to be a little while before we see a general shift as we Kiwis tend to stick with what we are used to. “When it comes to Isuzu’s utes, the company is a truck maker and so carries with it a bit of masculinity that sets it apart from other commercial vehicles.” Paul Saunders, of Saunders Mitsubishi in Thames, says: “Farmers and tradies are interested in the Triton, but our demographics are changing with Aucklanders selling up and having money to buy new utes.”

New Commercial Sales - 2013-2015

4500

2015 YEAR TO DATE

2015 Mkt share

Make

Model

Nov'15

Nov'14

+/- %

Nov'15 Mkt Share

2015 YEAR TO DATE

2015 Mkt share

Toyota

901

723

24.6

25.7%

7,769

21.6%

Ford

Ranger

690

566

21.9

19.7%

6,224

17.3%

Ford

769

629

22.3

21.9%

7,110

19.7%

Toyota

Hilux

683

560

22.0

19.5%

5,213

14.5%

Holden

290

335

-13.4

8.3%

3,452

9.6%

Holden

Colorado

269

322

-16.5

7.7%

3,281

9.1%

Mitsubishi

253

154

64.3

7.2%

2,335

6.5%

Mitsubishi

Triton

253

133

90.2

7.2%

2,263

6.3%

Nissan

218

212

2.8

6.2%

2,936

8.2%

Nissan

Navara

218

212

2.8

6.2%

2,936

8.2%

Isuzu

183

156

17.3

5.2%

2,563

7.1%

Toyota

Hiace

200

148

35.1

5.7%

2,303

6.4%

D-Max

Mercedes-Benz

132

48.3

3.8%

763

2.1%

Isuzu

117

27.2

3.3%

1,587

4.4%

Mazda

112

24.4

3.2%

1,284

3.6%

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

116

52.6

3.3%

641

1.8%

Mitsubishi Fuso

13.2

2.4%

631

1.8%

Mazda

Bt-50

112

24.4

3.2%

1,284

3.6%

Volkswagen

125

-33.6

2.4%

1,207

3.4%

Ford

Transit

32.8

2.2%

838

2.3%

Hyundai

68.9

2.2%

629

1.7%

Hyundai

iload

72.7

2.2%

614

1.7%

Fiat

21.6

1.8%

607

1.7%

Fiat

Ducato

14.9

1.5%

491

1.4%

Foton

18.6

1.5%

480

1.3%

Volkswagen

Amarok

-19.4

1.4%

782

2.2%

Hino

-15.5

1.4%

599

1.7%

Ssangyong

Actyon Sport

-37.3

1.3%

637

1.8%

Tunland

SsangYong

-37.3

1.3%

637

1.8%

Foton

Ldv

-31.6

0.7%

401

1.1%

Mitsubishi Fuso Canter

Ud Trucks

-37.5

0.6%

241

0.7%

Isuzu

Daf

58.3

0.5%

197

0.5%

Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

F Series

12.5

1.3%

436

1.2%

29.4

1.3%

288

0.8%

57.9

0.9%

409

1.1%

9.1

0.7%

197

0.5%

Great Wall

-17.4

0.5%

413

1.1%

Ldv

V80

-39.5

0.7%

360

1.0%

Volvo

-30.4

0.5%

237

0.7%

Hino

300

150.0

0.6%

193

0.5%

124

-20.2

2.8%

1,518

4.2%

363

467

-22.3

10.3%

5,032

14.0%

3,511

3,113

12.8

100.0%

36,009

100.0%

3,511

3,113

12.8

100.0%

36,009

100.0%

Others Total

From the rising sun to the long white cloud The history of used car importing to New Zealand 36 www.autofile.co.nz

used commercial sales

Registrations rise across country S

ales of used commercial vehicles came in at 792 last month and were up by 10.2 per cent from 719 during November 2014. Toyota’s Hiace was the top model on 245 units, and was followed by Nissan’s Caravan with 62 and Fiat’s Ducato on 38. November’s best-selling marque was Toyota on 341 although its total was down by 10.5 per cent compared to November last year. Nissan came second with 153 registrations – up by 15 per cent – while and Mazda’s sales climbed by 31.4 per cent last month to 46 for third place. Alan Murrell, of Redwood Motors in Rotorua, reports sales

2013 2014 2015

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

of his used commercials have dropped off slightly. “Our light trucks and commercials are moving slowly at the moment,” he told Autofile. “To be honest though, I don’t

Nov'15

Nov'14

+/- %

Nov'15 Mkt Share

Jul Aug Sep

Oct Nov Dec

think this market has been that buoyant anywhere in New Zealand. It’s generally fairly tight and you are working hard to do a deal. “It’s also hard to replace stock once you sell it. Most of ours is

Used Commercial Sales by Model - November 2015

Used Commercial Sales by Make - November 2015 Make

imported directly from Japan and sourced locally.” On the flipside, Murrell notes “a lot of positive things have been coming out of the forestry industry”. He says: “We have just had a new mill open. There’s an extension going on at Waipa Mill and millions of dollars are being put into that. “The housing market is on a good rise in Rotorua. Sales seem almost double than those of last year and average prices have risen albeit not a lot. Real-estate people are all smiling when you talk to them. “Having said that, we all know what happens after a boom and about making good money while it’s on. It’s like corrugated iron – up and down.”

Used Commercial Sales - 2013-2015

900 850 800 750 700 650 600 550 500 450 400 350 300

2015 YEAR TO DATE

2015 Mkt share

Make

Model

Nov'15

Nov'14

+/- %

Nov'15 Mkt Share

2015 YEAR TO DATE

2015 Mkt share

35.2%

Toyota

341

381

-10.5

43.1%

3,949

48.7%

Toyota

Hiace

245

284

-13.7

30.9%

2,850

Nissan

153

133

15.0

19.3%

1,553

19.2%

Nissan

Caravan

-6.1

7.8%

661

8.2%

Mazda

31.4

5.8%

467

5.8%

Fiat

Ducato

245.5

4.8%

113

1.4%

Fiat

245.5

4.8%

114

1.4%

Nissan

Vanette

26.9

4.2%

312

3.8%

Mitsubishi

200.0

4.5%

324

4.0%

Mazda

Bongo

-6.5

3.7%

360

4.4%

Ford

40.9

3.9%

265

3.3%

Nissan

Nv200

262.5

3.7%

198

2.4%

Isuzu

-12.1

3.7%

338

4.2%

Mitsubishi

Canter

666.7

2.9%

173

2.1%

Chevrolet

20.0

2.3%

201

2.5%

Toyota

Dyna

22.2

2.8%

311

3.8%

Hino

-10.5

2.1%

207

2.6%

Toyota

Regius

-40.5

2.8%

297

3.7%

Holden

112.5

2.1%

156

1.9%

Isuzu

Elf

16.7

2.7%

204

2.5%

Volkswagen

37.5

1.4%

0.9%

Toyota

Toyoace

33.3

2.5%

199

2.5%

Suzuki

500.0

0.8%

0.4%

Toyota

Hilux

0.0

1.6%

155

1.9%

Mercedes-Benz

66.7

0.6%

0.4%

Nissan

Atlas

9.1

1.5%

151

1.9%

Dodge

33.3

0.5%

0.6%

Hino

Dutro

10.0

1.4%

115

1.4%

Gmc

33.3

0.5%

Toyota

Estima

400.0

1.3%

0.5%

Iveco

-70.0

0.4%

0.2%

Ford

Ranger

42.9

1.3%

1.0%

Kenworth

50.0

0.4%

Chevrolet

Silverado

100.0

1.3%

1.1%

Man

300.0

0.4%

0.2%

Mazda

Bt-50

800.0

1.0%

0.3%

Renault

-25.0

0.4%

0.2%

Holden

Colorado

300.0

1.0%

0.6%

Commodore

Volvo

300.0

0.4%

0.2%

Holden

166.7

1.0%

0.9%

Others

31.3

2.7%

210

2.6%

Others

158

149

6.0

19.9%

1,651

20.4%

Total

792

719

10.2

100.0%

8,107

100.0%

Total

792

719

10.2

100.0%

8,107

100.0%

Orders are now being received for this limited print run hardcover book – a fantastic gift or just to have in the office or showroom Priced at $59.50 including post and packaging Visit www.autofile.co.nz/book and fill in the order form now, email brian@autofile.co.nz or phone 021 455 775 www.autofile.co.nz

Exchange rate’s effect on prices The number of new cars crossing the border came in at 8,757 for a variance of 640 in favour of imports to create a national stock figure of 55,962. The level of unsold stock has gone up by 13.6 per cent compared to what it was in November 2014 There was only a slight increase in sales at 0.6 per cent when comparing last month with a year earlier, but a 3.5 per cent drop in imports. Daily sales last month – when averaged out over the previous 12 months – came in at 260 compared to 247 for the same period a year earlier – meaning 13 more units are being sold daily. The amount of stock at hand has jumped from 199 days to 216. There have been 92,608 new cars imported so far in 2015 and 87,987 sold for a 5,256-unit variance in favour of imports. The first all-new Mustangs

in this country have created excitement at Ford NZ and its dealerships with some of its 550plus pre-ordered models arriving at the end of last month. “It’s New Zealand automotive history in the making,” says Corey Holter, managing director of Ford NZ. “These are the first US factorybuilt and right-hand-drive Mustangs in this country. It’s safe to say that we are as excited as customers taking delivery of them.” Pre-orders here for the new Mustang have topped 550 – an unprecedented number for any vehicle in New Zealand and almost twice the amount than at the start of the year. “The magic of the Mustang is its universal appeal,” adds Holter. “It is everything we love about cars – it embodies driving excitement, fun and the freedom of the open road.” The overwhelming choice among Kiwi pre-orders has been

Dealer stock of new cars in New Zealand 49,255

- 12-MONTH AVERAGE

Days stock at hand

200

247

199

180

Dec ‘14

8,248

6,797

1,451

50,706

248

204

Jan ‘15

6,713

9,010

-2,297

48,409

250

193

Feb ‘15

7,172

7,057

115

48,524

252

193

Mar ‘15

7,569

8,075

-506

48,018

252

191

Apr ‘15

7,746

6,373

1,373

49,391

252

196

May ‘15

9,395

6,843

2,552

51,943

253

206

Jun ‘15

8,297

9,021

-724

51,219

254

202

Jul ‘15

8,842

7,272

1,570

52,789

254

207

Aug ‘15

11,142

7,752

4,027

56,816

256

222

Sept ‘15

8,352

8,835

-483

56,333

258

219

Oct ‘15

8,623

9,634

-1,011

55,322

260

213

Nov ‘15

8,757

8,115

640

55,962

260

216

Year to date

92,608

87,987

5,256

Change on Nov 2014

-3.5%

0.6%

13.6%

Less IMPORTED

MORE SOLD

MORE STOCK

marac.co.nz

November 2014 — November 2015

160 November 2013 — November 2014

140 120 100 80 60 40

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38 www.autofile.co.nz

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Nov

Oct

Sept

Aug

JuL

Jun

May

APR

Mar

1,012

DAILY SALES

JAN

8,063

Stock

Dec

9,075

Variance

Nov

Nov ‘14

Registered

Days of stock

CAR Sales Imported

the GT Fastback with its six-speed automatic GT five-litre V8. It makes up about 58 per cent of the first orders. Convertibles and models with manual transmissions make up 15 per cent of total orders. Around the world, “race red” has been the top colour choice and, until recently, was the most popular in New Zealand as well. However, “magnetic” now leads as the top colour for Kiwis, with “race red” a close second place and followed by “ruby red”. The Mustang’s arrival is “the icing on the cake” for what has been a big year for Ford NZ. The marque has introduced a record number of smart vehicles for the largest line-up refresh in its history on these shores. Holter adds: “With all of the new vehicles having arrived, we are looking forward to a fantastic 2016.”

Days stock in NZ - new Cars

Feb

franchise has bought stock of a popular model in bulk so there is surety of supply to match one more recently launched. Bruce Lowe, dealer principal of Rotorua Hyundai and Isuzu, says the amount of stock he holds on site varies, but he usually has up to 50 new vehicles. “We have shifted into the new Hyundai Tucson and it’s selling very well,” he told Autofile. “We’ve also moved the ix35 quickly and that’s one of the reasons why our stock levels have been so good. “We have bulk-bought that model and stockpiled it, and there’s a bit of price parity between the two models. Naturally, one reason is due to the exchange rate and, secondly, to help ix35 move out the door.” Last month was the best November ever for national sales of new passenger vehicles with 8,115 registrations.

National stock level increases M

ore used passenger vehicles were imported into New Zealand last month than were registered – 12,387 compared to 11,732. This took the national level of unsold stock to 23,216 units by the end of November, while this figure has increased by 5,105 units – or by 28.2 per cent – since this time last year. Average daily sales have risen from 348 to 393 over the same timescale, which means there have been 45 more registrations per day – a jump of 12.9 per cent – while stock at hand has gone up by seven days to 59. Comparing last month with November 2014, there have been 9.8 per cent more used cars imported and 1.7 per cent more sold. Year-to-date imports of used passenger vehicles come to135,797 while registrations of used imports were 131,044 for a variance of

4,753 in favour of those imported. Brian Watts is dealer principal of Watts Motors in Gisborne, which has franchises for Honda, Mitsubishi and Fuso. He says business has been “patchy, that’s all you can really say”. “We are down on stock a bit because we were slightly down on sales in November,” he told Autofile. “We buy Japanese imports or take the trades from car sales. “Prior to September, car sales were going pretty well, so we had trade-ins off those, but it has gone slow over the past couple of months and our trades are minimal. “We, therefore, run out of stock and trying to replace it has been a bit of an issue. “When that happens, you try to buy locally or from Turners, but everyone else is doing the same thing so it becomes very hard to get something at the right price.” “It’s difficult to get good stock

in and we have to pay top dollar for it,” says Alan Burrell, of Redwood Motors, Rotorua. “But the other issue is that there is an awful lot of stock lying around the country unsold, so you have to be conscious of what’s available, what it was bought for, what the exchange rate was for it and so on. “Also, winter sales probably dropped somewhat, so there is a surplus of stock from the seasonal difference. “We stock small Japanese cars, some mid-priced European cars accessed from Japan and light commercials. “As far as European models go, we have Porsches, MercedesBenzes and Volvos, but we only buy them if the price is right. Sometimes whether they move or not is simply down to colour.” Matt Carman, chief executive officer of Capital City Motors in Wellington, says: “Our stock levels

Dealer stock of used cars in New Zealand

Days stock in NZ - Used Imported Cars

CAR Sales

180

Imported

Nov ‘14

160 140

100

November 2014 — November 2015

60 40 November 2013 — November 2014

Nov

Oct

Sept

Aug

JuL

Jun

May

APR

Mar

Feb

JAN

Dec

marac.co.nz

11,284

Registered

11,532

Variance

-248

Stock

18,111

DAILY SALES - 12-MONTH AVERAGE

Days stock at hand

348

Dec ‘14

12,800

12,448

352

18,463

356

Jan ‘15

10,139

11,791

-1,652

16,811

362

Feb ‘15

9,963

10,572

-609

16,202

366

Mar ‘15

14,964

12,313

2,651

18,853

372

Apr ‘15

16,155

11,038

5,117

23,970

376

May ‘15

14,531

12,415

2,116

26,086

379

Jun ‘15

12,864

12,415

449

26,535

384

Jul ‘15

11,944

13,891

-1,947

24,588

389

Aug ‘15

11,779

12,061

-282

24,306

391

Sept ‘15

8,683

11,667

-2,984

21,322

392

Oct ‘15

12,388

11,149

1,239

22,561

393

Nov ‘15

12,387

11,732

655

23,216

393

135,797

131,044

4,753

Year to date

Nov

Days of stock

120

are being maintained because of trade-ins, so we get a good mixture from that. “We are also able to buy cars from Ford and Mazda of New Zealand, and ex-rental stock. “Another source for used stock is other dealers who don’t trade in Ford or Mazda. They will ring us to offload those cars, so we do okay across the board.” Mike Eastwood, dealer principal of Eastwood Motor Group in Masterton, sees the current market as positive, and has experienced consistent sales on his used yard as well – particularly across Hyundai’s range. “Because new car sales have been quite strong, we have been able to restock through tradeins,” he says. “There are some very good used products with Hyundai and – even at only two years old – they are holding their values pretty well.”

Change on Nov 2014

9.8%

1.7%

28.2%

More IMPORTED

MORE SOLD

MORE STOCK

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