New EVs in 2024: Coming to NZ
While the car market is difficult to predict, a number of brands have indicated their intention to bring new EV models to NZ in 2024.
Note that specifications are subject to change until the manufacturer releases exact model details.
Kia EV5
Given that the Kia EV6 was the 6th most popular EV in NZ last year, maybe the EV5 will be the 5th most popular. Similar in size to a Sportage, the styling matches the larger Kia EV9.
The exact models depend on whether we get the vehicles manufactured in China or Korea. If China (likely), we’ll see a base 64 kWh model (440 km range), a long-range (up to 600 km), and an all-wheel-drive version.
Standard Range: 64 kWh battery / 440 km range / 160 kW power
Long Range: 88 kWh battery / 600 km range
Long Range AWD: 88 kWh battery / 537 km range / 230 kW power
Price: Can only speculate, but indications are: cheaper than the Kia Niro (so under $68k for the base model)
Omoda E5
Called the Chery Omoda in other markets, this electric SUV aims to compete with the MG ZS EV and the BYD Atto 3. It is powered by an LFP battery and provides 150 kW of power—all the exact specs are yet to be revealed.
Range: 430 km
Price: Not indicated (est. ~$55k)
KGM Torres EVX
Seemingly out-of-nowhere, Korean manufacturer KGM (previously SsangYong), reveals this brand new EV.
The large, rugged-looking SUV (complete with a faux spare-wheel cover on the back) shares similarities with a Tesla Model Y, plus a few noticeable differences.
It’s priced almost the same. It’s taller but not as quick. It’s Front-Wheel-Drive (compared to the Y’s RWD). Similar tow rating (1,500 kg braked). But the Torres has V2L (plug in any appliance – great in a power cut), and something Tesla has (yet) implemented.
Range: 462 km 0-100 km/h: 8.1s
Price: $66,900
Mini Countryman E and SE
More than 800 electric MINIs were sold in New Zealand since arriving in 2020. The next step for the BMW-owned brand is the larger electrified Countryman.
With major improvements in design aesthetic, and technology, the Countryman continues with the quirky MINI interior (with the iconic circular dashboard display). A more powerful variation (the SE) boasts All-Wheel-Drive, and a 0-100 km/h time of 5.6s.
MINI Countryman E
Range: 462 km Power: 150 kW Price: $74,900
MINI Countryman SE 4ALL
Range: 432 km Power: 230 kW Price: $80,990
Volkswagen ID.Buzz
The electric version of the iconic Kombi wagon may appear in NZ in Q4.
While the exact variant is unclear, it will likely be the 82 kWh battery Buzz Pro with 400+ km of range. There’s a hefty GTX model in the pipeline (dual motor, AWD, 290 kW power, 1,800 kg tow).
[There’s been talk of the Buzz coming here since 2022]
Range: 400+ km 0-100 km/h: 10.1s Price: Not indicated (but in Europe is around NZD115k)
Possibilities
Peugeot e-3008
The e-3008 is a fastback SUV launched in Europe in 2024. It’s the first vehicle from manufacturer Stellantis based on the new STLA medium platform. The top-spec model has range of 700 km. Will it come to NZ? See more at Peugeot
Skoda Enyaq 85
New Zealand currently has the Skoda Enyaq Sportline (originally called the Skoda Enyaq iV 80). In Europe this has been upgraded to the Enyaq 85 – with boosts to power and range. No word on whether this will make it to NZ.
BYD plug-in hybrid ute
The new BYD ute pairs a 1.5L turbo petrol engine with dual electric motors (with potentially up to 100 km range on electric alone). The DM-i hybrid technology offers several different driving modes (depending on usage). The Ute will be All-Wheel-Drive and offer Vehicle-to-load (as do all BYD vehicles) (see more).
ISUZU D-Max – fully electric ute
“Specifications include a lithium-ion 66.9kWh battery, 130kW power (front motor 40kW/rear motor 90kW) and 325Nm torque, about 130km/h top speed, 1000kg payload, and 3.5t maximum towing capacity.” – from EVsandBeyond Source: Isuzu
Toyota Hilux fully electric ute – late 2025
A somewhat vague rumour from this Reuters report claims a Hilux ute is coming by the end of 2025.
