High spec, long wait for Leaf - Leading the Charge BMW e-bike test Mercury's new HQ EV statistics - Climate Leaders Coalition
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NZ’S NEWS SOURCE FOR ELECTRIC, INTELLIGENT AND AUTONOMOUS TRANSPORTATION
MARCH 2019 .CO.NZ
High spec, long wait for Leaf
INSIDE
22 16 28
Leading the Charge • BMW e-bike test • Mercury’s new HQ • EV statistics
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FOUNDATIONSPONSORS EVTalk acknowledges the support of our foundation sponsors: EVtalk Magazine is published by Auto Media Group Limited., 8/152 Quay Street, P.O. Box 10 50 10, Auckland City, 1030. Ph. 09 309 2444. EDITOR Geoff Dobson 021 881 823 geoff@automediagroup.com.au BUSINESS MANAGER Rachel Hadfield 021 778 745 rachel@automediagroup.co.nz RECRUITMENT SPECIALIST/ PRODUCTION Fran Da Silva 021 933 279 fran@automediagroup.co.nz GROUP GENERAL MANAGER/ EV PLANNER Deborah Baxter 027 530 5016 deborah@automediagroup.co.nz MANAGING EDITOR Richard Edwards 021 556 655 richard@automediagroup.co.nz PUBLISHER Vern Whitehead 021 831 153 vern@automediagroup.co.nz Auto Media Group Limited makes every endeavour to ensure information contained in this publication is accurate, however we are not liable for any losses or issues resulting from its use. Printed by: Alpine Printers. evtalk.co.nz evtalk.com.au autotalk.co.nz autotalk.com.au transporttalk.co.nz transporttalk.com.au wheeltalk.co.nz 2 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz
EVTALK IN HONG KONG NEWSTALK
Could eNV200 be next as new
Leaf heads for New Zealand?
T
he head of Nissan in Australia and do in terms of distributing the vehicle and
New Zealand has suggested the selling the vehicle in New Zealand."
e-NV200 van could follow the Leaf Lester confirmed a broader range of
as the second electric vehicle to arrive in dealers would sell and service the Leaf, a
local dealerships. move likely to expand service options for
EVtalk is in Hong Kong to try out the the existing fleet.
new Leaf and attend the Nissan Futures Nissan is unlikely to get into the
event - a discussion of how mobility will charging market in New Zealand, though
look in the future. Of course, electrified across the Tasman they are working with
vehicles will play a part in that. Jet Charge on some developments. For a
Nissan plans to release eight electric start, he feels it is not necessary with cars Stephen Lester
models by 2022, though it is unclear like the new Leaf having enough range to packaged with a V2G unit and be seen as
which of those we will see in this corner meet the needs of most buyers without an alternative to buying a car and a battery
of the world. regular charging away from home base. storage system - a Leaf can act as both.
Nissan Australia and New Zealand "The reality is that for most Australians Lester believes Nissan can
managing director and chief executive and New Zealanders, the ownership of successfully sell electric cars without
Stephen Lester sat down for a chat with a house and therefore a driveway, or a government subsidy, but direction from
EVtalk and told us the electric van is very carport, or a garage allows for the basic governments is required.
much on the radar for both markets. infrastructure to be met simply via the "I think the most important role the
"For both Australia and New Zealand, external outlets on all of our houses that government plays in both countries is
we'd love to see a broader LCV range, exist today," Lester says. providing direction. A plan, a policy that
and the e-NV200 I think would make "And that charging capability, without means something, a policy that sets the
perfect sense in the metropolitan having to add any extra infrastructure, direction so that everybody involved can
markets, and even to a degree in some without a wall box, is actually where understand where we're really headed,"
of the more rural markets as well." we see in our research - based on the he explains.
Lester says he is requesting access hundreds, if not billions of kilometres, "Some of that comes certainly in the
to the model, which last year received I think they've said now of EV-driven form of monetary, non-monetary subsidies
a bump in battery size from 24kWh to kilometres - will actually be where people or incentives - but that is used as a way
40kWh. charge and utilise that infrastructure. to accelerate towards a direction. In the
"Unfortunately, I don't always get what "Even in my own situation, having absence of that direction, subsidies or
I ask for. We have got to build a business lived with a Leaf in my family for weeks incentives don't do anything to drive
case for it." at a time, not only do I enjoy the fact an understanding - from a consumer or
Lester notes the move globally is to that I've never visited a petrol station, industry standpoint - where they're going."
restrict access to city centres for fossil but it's two seconds for me before I walk The last time Nissan brought the Leaf
fuelled vehicles, which creates a strong into the house or walk out of the house to Australian and New Zealand markets
need for such vehicles. to plug in and unplug the vehicle. it arguably didn't go well. The car sold
"The e-NV200 offers a perfect solution "I don't have that personal feeling that in very low numbers and was ultimately
for a variety of local delivery for small ownership of an EV would be compelled dropped, the remaining stock shifted to
business." only if I knew where all the DC charging New Zealand for sale at a discounted
With the Leaf, Lester expects a pricing stations were in Australia.” price. Lester believes the situation will be
announcement for New Zealand to come Lester believes while the industry very different this time.
soon. He would not be drawn on why should promote infrastructure, ultimately "The fact is, we're five years removed
there was a delay other than internal it will be other parties who take control. from that, and we're in a different
discussions on the pricing continue. "I think we will see the industry time," he notes. "A different mindset for
He notes New Zealand's open market continue to promote infrastructure. And consumers, a different understanding of
creates challenges for the brand - there are I think we'll see energy companies get the impact an EV could have on your life.
nearly 10,000 Leaf on our roads already. behind the game very strongly, and that “And I think, the technology - when
"There's no question that the New will support the adoption rate.” you look at the output of the engine,
Zealand market presents complexities An area where Nissan could be when you look at the efficiency of the
that other markets don't. As the OEM involved is in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) engine, the battery capacity, etc, and so
of the Nissan Leaf we certainly retain technology. In a solar-friendly country forth - everything is moving in the right
advantages in terms of what we want to like Australia it could be vehicles are direction.”
EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 3
NEWSTALK
High spec, long wait for Leaf
A
s a Kiwi at an international electric 40kWh model.
vehicle event these days, you can The specification will include active
feel a little smug. cruise control, a 360-degree camera
While many may still disparage the system, auto high-beam lights, front and
efforts of our government and market rear parking sensors, and an eight-inch
to grow the number of electric vehicles, touchscreen with navigation, Apple Car-
when you are sitting amongst journalists Play and Android Auto.
from Australia and other markets what ap- Creature comforts include leather up-
pears a minimal attempt to us looks light holstery, heated seats, a heated steering
years ahead to others. wheel and climate control air-condition-
As was the case last week when ing. Safety features include autonomous
EVtalk headed to Hong Kong for the emergency braking, lane keep assist, a port.
frontal collision warning and rear cross And the price is? Well, we can not tell
traffic alert. you yet. Australians can now preorder
The much talked about e-pedal sys- the car for $49,990, or $51,600 in New
tem comes as standard but the Pro Pilot Zealand currency. EVtalk's speculation is
driver assistance system is not yet on not to expect the Leaf at that price point,
the menu. While we have tried it in New with it likely to fall between $55,000 and
Zealand and it works, Nissan still wants $60,000.
to validate it in local conditions. That would be inline or undercut simi-
The Chademo port remains under the larly specified Uk imported models, and of
front flap of the Leaf, with Nissan quot- course, have the support and warranty that
ing a 20-80% DC charge time of around comes along with being a new vehicle. It
Nissan Futures event, a series of discus- an hour. The 7kW hour onboard charger would also match or undercut the Hyundai
sions with Nissan leadership and industry means a charge in as little as 6-7 hours Ioniq with its 28kWh battery.
experts on the future of mobility - electri- on a level two charger, 24 hours on the This time around, sales and service
fication, autonomous vehicle technology provided lead. Like other UK Leafs of this will be opened up to a broader group
and how the way we travel will transform age, there is a type 2 rather than type 1 of dealers - a sign Nissan is a little more
cities. confident it can chase volume
It was also the chance to with the car.
drive the Leaf that will - finally Yes, EVtalk has already driven
- arrive in New Zealand later the car, but the chance to do it
this year. There is a wait, with on an official basis with some
Australia confirmed as getting idea of what we are getting
the car in August, and ours likely brings a new element to the
to come around the same time. experience.
What are we getting? EVtalk We headed out of our Kow-
can confirm New Zealand Leafs loon hotel with a local minder
will be sourced from the United onboard and headed through
Kingdom and feature a relative- the congested tunnel to Hong
ly high specification. There will Kong Island to experience the
be one specification initially, car.
and at least initially only the Continued on 5
4 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz
EVTALK IN HONG KONG NEWSTALK
Continued from 4 here - it is not uncomfortably firm and The boot is sizeable, likely helped
the car's balance of responsiveness to will likely make the car feel a little more by the lack of a spare tyre. If there is an
efficiency using an ECO mode button, or engaging on our open roads, even if it annoyance here, it is the Bose subwoofer
increase regeneration using a B mode in did feel firm on Hong Kong's somewhat which runs across the leading edge of the
the transmission. uneven tarmac. trunk - somewhat reminding me of the
The car feels nippy, hit the pedal With the battery sitting low the Leaf inconvenience of the charger hump in type
too hard and you can get some front feels very stable and solid. The steering one cars.
tyre scrabble, particularly on damp has a nice weight to it and is quicker There is much more to discuss around
roads. Once you have adjusted to the and responsive. the arrival of the Leaf, though some of
experience, it makes for a smooth driving While some higher quality plastics that will have to wait until we get official
experience. Bye, bye gearshifts. would be nice, the interior of the Leaf pricing and cars on New Zealand shores.
The new Leaf carries over the ball- is a comfortable place to be. The digital Until then you can check out more
style gearshift of the current model. It dash screen is relatively simple and from the event in this magazine, including
works, why change it. feeds information to the driver in a low discussions with Nissan Australia and
The e-pedal system comes with a little distraction way. New Zealand managing director and chief
bit of a learning curve, though ultimately The 8-inch touchscreen is easy to use executive Stephen Lester, Nissan's global
feels surprisingly natural. Once activated, and importantly is responsive, while the electric vehicle director Nicholas Thomas
lifting off the pedal gives you four times climate control buttons are carried over and more from Hong Kong.
more engine braking than you get in a from the old model.
petrol-powered vehicle. The front seats with their stitched
It takes out a lot of the guesswork leather are comfortable, though with no
about the best places to put power on steering reach adjustments finding the
or regenerate, helpful on the up-and- right driving position will be a mission for
down roads that run across the hills about some drivers.
Hong Kong. The rear seat is of a good size for
Australasian Leafs will retain the firmer a small hatch, though oddly a central
European suspension tune rather than drive shaft hump remains for the centre
the more comfort-orientated setup of passenger, and the angled windows give
Japanese cars. There is nothing to fear it a closed-in feel.
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EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 5
PEOPLETALK EVTALK IN HONG KONG
Affordability does not mean a low
sticker price - Nissan EV chief
N
issan has big aspirations for its driving for cleaner air in cities; trying to in demand,
electric vehicle effort. By 2022 reduce air pollution and trying to take active we can actu-
it wants to have sold one million measures to do that," Thomas says. ally give a small
electrified vehicles worldwide, and is roll- "Zero emission cars are just about the amount of the
ing out the models to get it there. most obvious way that a government can energy in each
Between now and 2022 it will launch take action on those sorts of things." battery back to
eight new pure electric models. It has The much-fabled crossover point for the building or
Nicholas Thomas
already been showing off its wares with battery cost is also approaching, Thomas to the grid. And
the IMQ concept crossover displayed at says, though not merely from the technol- again, customers can get paid for that.
Geneva, with more to come. ogy getting cheaper. Emissions regulation "So affordability is not just about how
Leading its efforts is global electric vehi- is raising the price of internal combustion much does the car cost at the beginning,
cle director Nicholas Thomas, who EVtalk powertrains up to meet batteries - espe- it's about what are all the different things I
caught up with last week at Nissan's Electric cially in Europe. can do with it during the life of the car."
Futures think-tank in Hong Kong. "Batteries will come down to $100 per This technology is not necessarily
Thomas's job of hitting the target has kilowatt hour, and the price of NOX and CO2 cheap, though Nissan is working to bring
got off to a good start with the new Leaf which is driving up the price of petrol and the cost down.
we also drove during the event. diesel engines will cross over," he explains. It is working with third parties to offer
"We sold more than 100,000 of the new "It doesn't automatically mean that the such bi-directional charging units, and
car in our three key regions of US, Europe EV itself will be as cheap as the cheapest want to bring one to market later this year
and Japan," Thomas says. "But now it's petrol car you can buy today, it's still a big for as low as $3000. This could then be
very exciting to be able to be launching it battery. At the same time as the cost per packaged with the vehicle at sale as part
around the rest of the world. Particularly kilowatt hour is coming down the demand of the finance or lease.
here around Asia Pacific, where we see a for bigger batteries is going up." In Australia, it is working with Jet
great deal of interest in the car." Thomas says a big challenge in his Charge on such units.
That tally takes Nissan to 300,000 job is to convince buyers that afford-
electric vehicles sold, most the successful able electric cars are not necessarily Utes a long way off
first generation Leaf. low priced. The battery is essentially an What is not likely to come soon is an
Thomas says the new model is impor- asset that can be used for other things. electrified version of New Zealander's fa-
tant because of its range. "Yes clearly sticker price is hugely vourite type of vehicle - the ute. Thomas
"It's been really, really well received in important but when you look at differ- suggests the way such vehicles are used
terms of firstly the extra range we're able to ent things we're able to do. With an EV, make them a challenge.
offer now. Once you've crossed that kind of as long as you can get electrons into "Most people buy a car to use it
150 miles, 280-kilometre barrier, that's quite it, which are substantially cheaper than fairly lightly and make the occasional long
a psychological barrier. It now means that hydrocarbons, in most cases, then you've distance trip," he explains. "People use com-
for a lot of people you can do all of your kind of paid for your fuel already because mercial vehicles to carry heavy loads, driver
week’s driving on a single charge." you're paying for battery life." longer distances - they use them intensively."
Nissan, he suggests, is at an advan- The battery can also be used in They are also - generally - low cost
tage to other players in the electric vehi- vehicle-to-grid or home setups, allowing vehicles.
cle market. As many brands launch their the owner to generate via solar or wind "Those are hard-working vehicles,
first generation cars, Nissan is selling its cheap electricity and store it for times and they are also very low-cost vehicles,"
second and developing its third. when demand and cost is high then dra- Thomas says. "We're not there with bat-
"Which means our engineers firstly matic savings can be made. The battery tery technology yet. We need to wait for
have resolved a lot of the quibbles, if you could also be used by energy companies batteries to become more affordable."
like, of the first product and the second for load balancing, and the owner paid for
generation product has really grown." offering this service. Cooling not required
Broader acceptance of electric vehi- "When there's extra energy, when When challenged by EVtalk, Thomas
cles and government pressure are also there's solar being generated during the stands by Nissan's decision not to fit the
finally combining to assist the rollout of day, let's put it into all of the EV's. new generation Leaf with active cooling,
electric cars. “And then in the evening when there's despite it putting restrictions on frequent
"And then you add the government pres- an excess of demand, when everybody DC fast charging. Cost and usage being
sure which is driving for, particularly in cities turns on their AC, turns on their cookers, the reasons behind Nissan going against
in Europe, China, California and Japan, turns on their lights etc, there's a big peak Continued on 11
6 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz
EVIE, NZ’S FAVOURITE ELECTRIC VEHICLE. Meet the real Evie at mercury.co.nz/evie
—
NEWSTALK
Smarter Mobility
For transport of the future,
today
ABB’s role in sustainable
transportation
www.abb.com/evcharging
G
lobal pressures of climate ed solutions that maximise the full
change, emerging-market eco- potential of vessels and ultimately
nomic development and growing enable a safe, efficient and sustain-
urbanisation, demand new and more en- able maritime industry.
vironmentally sustainable ways to move In 1990, ABB transformed
people and goods. maritime shipping by introducing
ABB has become one of the world’s Azipod propulsion, an electric pro-
leading enablers of sustainable trans- pulsion system for marine vessels.
portation for all modes, including marine The Azipod, which extends be-
The luxury polar expedition cruise ship due for delivery to
vessels. low the hull of a ship, can rotate French cruise company Ponant in 2021. It will feature two
As part of the company’s pioneering 360 degrees to increase manoeu- Azipod VI propulsion units fit for the most challenging ice
role in electric transportation, ABB has vrability, efficiency and space conditions. Image: Ponant-Stirling International
provided electric systems on board ves- available on board.
sels for more than 110 years. Due to minimal noise and vibration, ABB’s role as a world leader in sustaina-
Azipod propulsion also improves passen- ble transportation is more crucial than ever.
ger and crew comfort. it believes in running the world without
SeaBubbles, an example of e-mobility consuming the Earth – and is using its
on water, is a futuristic, zero-emission technological expertise to make this hap-
new design of water taxi, drawing on ABB pen.
technology. The vessel represents a
milestone in the development of new
forms of transportation that do not
impact the environment or place any
burden on urban infrastructure.
ABB will provide the power and propulsion for the Envisioned as a water taxi, the craft
first in a series of ground-breaking vessels that will be equipped with the ABB Ability
mark Ritz Carlton’s first foray into the maritime
sector. Image: Ritz Carlton Marine Advisory System – Octopus, a
software solution that enables ABB to
Today, more than 1300 ships employ provide real-time data to the SeaBub-
ABB’s electric system. Modern ships are bles control centre, covering virtually
being built on the foundation of electricity, every aspect of the vessels’ operating
which expands their range of viable energy status.
sources beyond traditional fuel to, for That’s relevant in New Zealand’s
instance, batteries and fuel cells. quest to protect its vulnerable marine
ABB’s role as a front runner in sustain- reserves with high tourist traffic
able transportation is to equip the marine volumes - like the sounds on the west SeaBubbles represents a milestone in new forms of
industry with electric, digital and connect- coast of the South Island. transportation avoiding impact on the environment
—
Smarter Mobility
For transport of the future,
today
www.abb.com/evcharging
8 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz
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NEWSTALK
At the top of your game
W
e had a massive week with New mount!
Zealand’s top automotive tech- The first of our training is a continu- Mark Thompson of Automotive Electronic
nicians, sharing with them the ation of EV Diagnostics & Maintenance Control System talks about electric vehicle
latest in our electric vehicle training. in our part two (part one was released training for some of New Zealand’s best
Our approach to training is to leave no last year). In this we cover HV air-con- automotive technicians
stone unturned. ditioning diagnostics, servicing R134a
It’s much like going to one of our aircon, including cooling and heating
favourite local restaurants in Napier, the systems, and how to diagnose levitating is necessary for you to be an expert on
coolant pumps - their EV batteries.
control/feedback sys- We worked with first responders in
tems. EV/hybrid vehicle impacts and crashes
Wheel alignment and in which we share the outcomes on what
braking systems have a best practices are when an EV/hybrid
major impact on battery high voltage system is damaged.
range. We go in-depth Importantly, we’ll go into battery cell
with wheel alignment quality diagnostics, testing and evalua-
and stability control, with tion of individual batteries from Nissan
basics on toe, camber, and Renault, removal and opening an
setback and thrust angle HV battery through to cooling, ventila-
adjustments. Functions tion and sealing. You’ll learn how to
of the ABS modulator will safely measure, diagnose and equalise
also be covered, such an HV battery. Also covered will be
as EBD, VDC, BLSD and breakers, SMRs and rush resistor.
Getting to grips with EVs BAS. Who would have thought there is so
One of the areas much to an EV?
food is amazing, and you come away full we go into much detail is high
and happy! voltage distribution and the role
This is how we feel about our training. of the power distribution module
We want you to be full of knowledge, also (PDM).
having the hands-on aspects so you apply We will bring a PDM for you to
this on returning to your place of work. see so you can understand how
At AECS we spent days upon days in each of the components operate.
summer just on research and develop- Of course, more will be covered.
ment to create two new seminars. The second of the new train-
Why spend so much time on this? ing programmes is EV Battery
When working on EVs the largest Diagnostics & Repair.
threat to your wellbeing is electricity. This where it gets exciting.
Working with 400 volts-plus you must Each component of this training
Doing it right is key
know what you’re doing. Safety is para- is broken down so it’s easy to un-
derstand.
Simple chemistry With our training all of this is explained
will change your in detail, and we have components from
thinking about HV an actual EV that helps with understand-
rechargeable bat- ing.
teries. AECS is about empowering workshops
We take a look and keeping you trained with the latest
at EV battery technology. If you want to be at the top
construction and of your game, then training is key.
chemistry, and Finally, perhaps you’re not a technician
the way batteries but work in the industry or own an EV -
are connected (in- we have something for everyone.
cluding individ- There’s training for vehicle sales, insur-
ual anodes and ance assessors, and EV owners through
cathodes) to the to first responders. Call 06 874 9077,
busbars. Knowl- email training@aecs.net or visit training.
Learning what lies beneath. edge such as this aecs.net for more information.
10 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nzNEWSTALK
The death of the dealership -
fact or fiction?
I
f you’ve been reading the news lately, buying a car simply is more complicated John Gavljak is a business
you could be excused for thinking … and a much bigger purchase than a pair advisory and assurance
automotive dealers across the board of Cole Haans [shoes]. So it’s OK if the pro- partner and automotive
are reassessing their life choices and cess takes longer than a pizza delivery.” industry specialist with
planning a change of career. In other words, buyers understand Pitcher Partners Sydney.
Stories on the rise of electric and and respect the fact that a car is a sig-
driverless vehicles, online buyer sub- nificant purchase. It’s the same reason out and those less efficient or poorly-man-
scription services and ride sharing have the test drive isn’t dead – people still aged operators tend to go to the wall.
prompted a host of forecasts painting a value the experience and want that level Dealers are absolutely keeping an eye
dire picture for the future of the indus- of contact and insight from a dealer. on those future disruptors, and what’s
try, including recent predictions that up This has been underscored by the fact coming over the horizon. But it’s impor-
to 50% of automotive dealerships glob- that while buyers in the US have the option tant to remember that most car dealers
ally would shut their doors by 2030. to have their new car delivered to their are entrepreneurs by nature – so change
There’s no question disruption is com- home, just 8% of them had taken that up. doesn’t scare them, it’s just a matter of
ing. It’s already under way. But it’s not com- The remainder preferred to go to the deal- sorting out the white noise from what
ing at the breakneck pace some of those ership to pick up their keys and get the full needs to be focused on.
recent stories would have you believe. introduction to their new vehicle in person. When we talk to our clients, their con-
In January, I attended the National Electric vehicles and ride share cerns aren’t electric vehicles or subscrip-
Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) services are other disruptors frequently tion services - they’re about pressure
Conference in San Francisco. It’s the big- cited in industry forecasts. Both are from original equipment manufacturers,
gest retail automotive convention in the clearly in use in Australia, but neither facility spends, customer service and get-
world, with more than 22,000 people at- are in a position to pose a serious threat ting the level of investment right.
tending from over 50 different countries. to the industry in the foreseeable future. In navigating a challenging market,
The theme for this year’s conference We just don’t have the supporting in- there are steps that can be taken to ensure
was Focus on Innovation, and as part of the frastructure or population density in place you stay on the road. In 2019, used car
Australian Automotive Dealers Association to drive significant growth in either. profitability and expense management are
(AADA) Study tour, I was lucky enough to That’s not to say the industry isn’t facing immediate levers that can be pulled, as
tour the headquarters of Google and eBay challenges. What we’re already seeing in they’re areas under the control of dealers.
and hear from some of the leading thinkers 2019 is a number of smaller operators really I genuinely do believe that for solid,
in that digital and disruptive space. struggling, and there have been a handful well-managed operators there will be a
What was interesting was that go into receivership since late 2018. future in the industry – but navigating
despite the focus on innovation, the As the saying goes, when the tide the right path through changing market
underlying message we were left with goes out you all see who’s been swim- conditions will be important, both in the
was that digital retail was very much a ming naked – and in a market downturn short and long term.
tool in a retailer’s toolkit – an important like the one we’re experiencing now, Talk to your adviser about ensuring
one, yes, but not the end game. that’s exactly what happens. you have the roadmap in place for the
As noted in the NADA Daily Magazine, “… The volume comes off, the tide goes journey.
Affordability does not mean a low sticker price
- Nissan EV chief
Continued from 6 have the ability to quick charge," he says. active thermal management to protect
the trend of other manufacturers. "You can still do 500km in a day quite the battery. We have provided an eight-
"What we have found is, again, most cus- comfortably - which is more than enough year warranty. We're very comfortable
tomers buy the car to drive relatively short to cover 90-95% of all driving needs for and confident in the quality and durability
distances and perhaps occasionally want pretty much every customer." of the battery."
to do that longer journey where you've "Battery cooling is not something that "Simply speaking it's not a cost that most
got 280 kilometres of range. And then you we feel we need," he asserts. "We have customers need us to add to their vehicle."
EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 11NEWSTALK
‘Self-charging’ Toyota riles
EV advocates
T
oyota New Zealand’s
advertisements describing
its Corolla variant as a “self-
charging hybrid electric” sparked
a battle over semantics.
Justin Boyd from the Electric
Vehicle Association of Aotearoa
sent a Facebook post to Toyota
New Zealand asking it to change
its post text referring to the
phrase.
“The Corolla is a hybrid
vehicle – electric should not be
used anywhere in the marketing
or referencing for this type of
vehicle,” he says.
Boyd says the Corolla hybrid
is not a plug-in hybrid and it is
not a full battery electric vehicle.
“NZTA and EECA Energywise
are very clear that ‘electric
vehicles are those which are able to be Toyota does have an all-electric car, its
powered by a battery which is charged Mirai sedan powered by a hydrogen fuel
by connecting to an external source of cell rather than batteries.
electricity’,” he says. By 2025, the automotive manufacturer
“This post sends a misleading aims to have every Toyota and Lexus
message to the public about what you are model available as a dedicated electrified
selling and could be deemed a breach of vehicle, or it will have an electrified option
the advertising standards.” available.
But Toyota New Zealand says it’s Toyota plans to launch its new RAV4
quite entitled to use the term “self- in New Zealand in 2019 as its first SUV
charging hybrid electric” when referring offering with “self-charging electric hybrid
to its hybrid range of vehicles. technology”.
“This is to not only differentiate from Lala says the 2019 RAV4 hybrid will
plug-in electric vehicles, but it also have the same towing capabilities as its
provides a better understanding as to petrol variants.
how the technology works. We are not Boyd adds another reason he is
aware of any negative sentiment towards seeking more clarity around the use of
the term,” Toyota New Zealand executive the key word “electric” is that people
general manager Neeraj Lala says. might be confused into thinking they’re
Toyota is more renowned for its Prius buying a plug-in vehicle which may
hybrid range, which includes a plug-in qualify for any eventual EV incentives.
hybrid (PHEV). “Buying a hybrid is a step in the right
The difference between a PHEV and direction, but people could be confused
a standard hybrid is that the latter uses in this case and think they’re buying
an internal combustion engine (ICE) to something that’s not quite what they
charge up the electric motor, rather than expect.”
using an external power source (plug). Among the many Facebook posts
The Prius has an EV mode for electric- about the issue is one suggesting the
only low-speed operation, Eco mode for Corolla hybrid should more properly be
best fuel efficiency, and Power mode for called a “petrol-electric”. Toyota’s advertisement
better performance.
12 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nzNEWSTALK
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116 Hewletts
HewlettsRoad
Road
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City
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AUTOVILLAGE ®
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EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 13NEWSTALK
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14 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nzNEWSTALK
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EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 15MICRO EVS
Getting active on a BMW Active
Hybrid e-bike
L
ike the cars, the BMW Active Hybrid
electric bike looks good.
And the mid-drive e-bike rides
well too.
The BMW blows away the hills, even
in the lower pedal assist speeds among
the three available.
Its top speed is apparently governed
to around 25km/h, but I could regularly
reach 27km/h and even 31km/h on some
stretches with some surging noticeable
during pedalling on the flat as the speed
assist kicks in (you can turn it off). While
you’re liable to be overtaken on the flat
by a fit road bike rider, you certainly win
on the hills or into a head wind.
Range is really good. Publicity puts the
range around 100km on a single charge.
A test run over hills and flats tends to sup-
port that with only one of the three bat-
tery indicator bars lost over about 23km.
That was using the top power assist
mode for much of the distance into a
head wind and carrying a full back-
pack with a laptop, charger, lunch,
books, a change of clothes and more –
probably close to 10kg.
Another journey over the same dis-
tance with a similar load used barely half EVTalk Editor Geoff Bolton tries out the BMW ebike.
of one battery indicator, leaving three-
and-a-half, while sticking to just two levels road bike wheels. another on the helmet.
of pedal assist. Shimano’s 10 cogs on the rear wheel Hydraulic brakes provide ample stop-
I guess that’s where the term “active and one at the pedal crank are sufficient ping power.
hybrid” applies – using your leg power as to cover all ranges of terrain and speed, Essentials like the pedal assist indica-
well as the electrics. If you really want to get although changing gears can produce a tor (shown beside a rocket symbol), lights,
fit just switch pedal assist off, although the slight “ping” at times. battery health and speed are on the han-
bike can be heavy at around the standard The saddle suits road bike riders like dlebar mounted controller and screen.
25kg because of the drive module. myself but may not be as comfortable It also comes with a Micro USB socket
The advanced Brose electric motor for some commuters who can probably and Bluetooth functionality.
combined with the removeable 504Wh swap it if they really want to. The BMW Active Hybrid e-bike, which
battery can spit out 250W and 90Nm of It’s designed specifically for e-bikes for has the same eDrive branding as its
torque – more than enough for a daily comfort and safety though. hybrid cars, sells for about $5600 and is
commute or a long, recreational ride. The e-bike’s full front and rear mud- available from selected BMW dealers.
The motor and battery are fully inte- guards deflect any road spray – they Many automotive producers like
grated into the hydroformed aluminium clang a bit over rough sections - and a BMW have been involved with bicycles,
frame, highlighting the bike’s sporty LED red light is integrated into the rear and more recently with e-bikes.
silhouette, accentuated further by the fa- aluminium mudguard. General Motors, for instance, has
miliar BMW “bullneck”. Frozen Black and A front fork mounted light is bright called its new e-bike brand ARĪV, which
Arctic Silver paintwork highlight the looks. enough, although when riding in Auck- includes a compact (Meld) and folding
Front fork suspension helps iron out land traffic I prefer adding a few extras bike (Merge).
the bumps, also relieved by wider tyres at like a seat post mounted rear light, a Visit shop.bmw.com for other BMW
a slightly lower pressure than my 100 PSI flashing white light on the handlebars and cycle models and related equipment.
16 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nzITS New Zealand leads the Future Transport conversation, promoting
research, development and adoption of solutions for safer, more
efficient and sustainable transport.
What’s Happening:
Terrific T-Tech Event: Wellington Micromobility
Conference takes shape April 10, Beca, Level 7 Aorangi House.
Simon McManus
Learn about news modes of transport
BY SIMON MCMANUS, EXECUTIVE OFFICER,
INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS NEW
up with ITS Australia to create a significant like e-scooters which are changing the
ZEALAND INC presence promoting New Zealand. way we move in urban areas.
The challenges we face today have
I
f you’ve got an eye on the future of taken on new urgency, with climate Register at www.ITSNZ.org
transport and it affects your business, change driving an urgent need to address
then mark your calendar for T-Tech greenhouse gases from transport. Urban
2019 in May, and head to the ITSNZ web- intensification is happening across the
site to register for Earlybird tickets. world, including here in New Zealand. It
T-Tech 2019 will feature one of New Zea-
land’s best presenters, Michelle Dickinson
limits the potential for infrastructure to
solve congestion and accelerates demand
events
(aka Nanogirl), leading an exciting line-up of for new solutions in public transport, last
international and local speakers covering mile solutions and micromobility. may 6 - 7 2019
everything from micromobility, to AVs, EVs, The T-Tech Future Transport Confer-
mobility as a service and even drones. ence is hosted by ITSNZ (Intelligent
The two-day programme will be filled Transport Systems New Zealand) and so,
with more than 30 speakers, a mix of gov- as always, the focus is on solutions which
ernment, experts, academia and innovators. will aim to make transport more sustaina-
Attendees will come away with insights ble, more efficient and safer for everyone. T-Tech is New Zealand’s Future
on disruptive new mobility solutions, busi- For those that don’t already know about Transport Conference, the leading
ness models and an update on govern- T-Tech, in 2018 ITS New Zealand launched event which explores the latest transport
ment policies, projects and direction. a new brand for our annual summit. T-Tech technology trends, research and
If you are interested in “last-mile” solu- 2018 was a massive success, a full two days technology business models.
tions that will help unlock public of informative presentations encom-
transport then you’ll be excited passing a range of technologies and
to hear that Horace Dediu, the technology-enabled transport and october 21-25 2019
world’s leading expert analyst mobility solutions that will make up
on micromobility will be at T- the transport ecosystem of the future.
Tech. Dediu is the brains behind This year, for the first time, the
the hugely successful annual conference will be in Christchurch in
micromobility conferences in Nanogirl its newly reopened town hall. We’re
San Francisco, USA and also in excited to work with Christchurch,
Europe and is frequently interviewed by who’re committed to their Smart Cities pro- ITS World Congress
the world’s leading business and technol- gramme and support the development and
ogy publications. testing of innovative transport solutions. The 2019 Congress theme of
Expect updates on emerging technol- More exciting announcements are in “Smart Mobility, Empowering Cities”
ogy, urban design and policy from Europe, the pipeline, so do connect with us online reflects Singapore’s commitment to
USA and Australia, as well as information and we look forward to seeing you there create the most liveable smart city in
about the upcoming World Congress in Sin- in May. support of higher quest for an ever
gapore later this year where we’ve teamed connected community.
gold members
contact us
ITS NZ INC
www.itsnz.org
simon.mcmanus@itsnz.org
silver members JOIN THE FUTURE +64 (0)21 709 386
TRANSPORT CONVERSATION
EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 17INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT
Connected Vehicles
Micro mobility gains traction
T
he disruption of micro mobility ism member Jessica
within urban and rural transport Rose, Micro Mobil-
was covered during an Intelligent ity podcaster Oliver
Transport Systems New Zealand (ITS NZ) Bruce, and Big Street
presentation and panel discussion on Bikes founder Cleve
February 19 in Auckland. Cameron.
New electric personal transport options Micro mobility
under the micro mobility label include conference founder
e-scooters, e-bikes, electric skateboards, and host of the Micro
Segways, electric mopeds and more. Mobility Podcast Hor-
The rapid adoption, surpassing 500 ace Dediu began pro-
million users globally, brought on by the ceedings with a video
fleets, and increasing private ownership, keynote presentation.
means decision-makers are under pres- Dediu says the
sure to react quickly to understand the migration of people to
implications for public safety, regulation cities since the 1950s Oliver Bruce, Jessica Rose, Cleve Cameron, Matt Ensor, and Patrick Reynolds
and infrastructure to achieve the full po- lead to blossoming at the Micro Mobility Conference
tential of benefits and mitigate problems. urbanisation and he
The event discussed how and why predicts that by 2050 6.7 billion people will micro mobility will have a significant im-
new mobility options will be a major dis- be living in cities. Many will prefer a mode pact on short trips and a huge impact on
ruptor and driver of behavioural change. of personal transport but there won’t be the climate change provided that the modes
Beca transportation advisory director resources to cope with cars, he says. are not regulated off the roads. She be-
Matt Ensor was the master of ceremonies Interestingly, Dediu believes that car lieves that only with political support from
for the session. share services such as Uber and Lyft the top down will micro mobility thrive
The micro mobility panel of guest have already reached the point of peak and succeed.
speakers included Greater Auckland use, but shared micro mobility options Reynolds says proactive creation of
contributor, urbanist Patrick Reynolds, have barely scratched the surface yet. cycle lanes has seen people encouraged
Albert-Eden board and Women in Urban- During the panel discussion Rose says to use them, and the addition of micro
mobility provides another reason to cre-
ate such a third space, such as a foot-
path, road, and lane for cyclists and micro
mobility users.
Bruce says building cities around cars
is no longer feasible and micro mobility
allows the democratisation of mobility,
because society will benefit from lower
cost mobility services.
“We see micro mobility as a vehicle
for social change, and our intention is to
understand what could happen when it
gathers scale,” Cameron says.
“We need to make e-mobility a part of
life, and to do that successfully it needs to
be affordable, accessible, loveable, and
desirable - we need to shift the desire
Electric scooters are a popular form of micro mobility curve and make it likeable and fun.”
www.hmi.co.nz
At the forefront of the transport technology revolution
18 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nzAUTONOMOUS VEHICLES
Trailblazing AV electric bus
project launched
T
he world’s first 12-metre being used in Singapore and One of the autonomous global installed base of 10,500
fully electric, autono- across Asia Pacific. electric buses will be used at ABB DC fast chargers installed
mous 40-seater bus un- Using a pantograph mount- the Centre of Excellence for across 73 countries.
veiled on March 5 at Nanyang ed on the charging infrastruc- Testing and Research of Au- ABB’s installed base
Technological University (NTU) ture for end-point charging, tonomous Vehicles (CETRAN) includes its Terra high power
in Singapore will be powered set up at a bus stop or depot, – Singapore’s advanced new chargers, capable of adding
by two ABB heavy vehicle it allows buses to be charged test facility at the NTU campus 200km of range to an electric
chargers (HVC). at the end of the line, with- – where researchers will test vehicle in just eight minutes.
new functions and study Fortune Magazine recently
how the bus interacts with ranked ABB eighth on its list
other road-users. of companies that are “chang-
The second bus will be ing the world” for the advanc-
used for tests in a bus depot, es it has made in e-mobility
in partnership with SMRT. and electric vehicle charging.
ABB was one of the In its role as title partner
founders of both the Chad- of the ABB FIA Formula E
emo and CCS alliance charg- championship and as Official
ing standards, launched Charging Partner for the new
the first DC fast charger in Jaguar I-Pace eTrophy series,
2010, the first nationwide DC ABB extends its commitment
charging networks in 2012 to support and expand the fu-
and the first eBus charging ture of smart and sustainable
networks in Europe in 2016. transport.
Today, ABB is the world Representatives of ABB
The bus’s back end says it all leader in electric vehicle New Zealand attended the
infrastructure. Hong Kong ePrix on March
The project is part of out impacting the normal
an ongoing collaboration operation of the route.
between NTU, the Land “ABB is at the forefront
Transport Authority (LTA) and of developing smart and
Volvo Buses to develop au- sustainable transportation
tonomous bus technologies. solutions,” electrification
This phase, which includes products division president
self-driving bus trials, demon- Tarak Mehta says.
strates the ability to provide “We have pioneered
fixed route and scheduled ser- the creation of flexible
vices similar to existing public and high-quality electric
bus services in Singapore. charging systems that en-
ABB is a key industry able the development of
partner in the project, helping cleaner, more efficient and
Singapore to make another cost effective solutions.
major step towards sustain- “We are delighted to be ABB is putting the charge in the world’s first AV electric bus
able mobility. involved in this landmark
ABB’s HVC 300P fast project in Singapore and hope It offers a full range of 10, with Kiwi brothers Mitch
charging system delivers this will mark a positive step charging solutions for electric and Simon Evans racing in
300kW DC power and will toward greater electrification cars, electric and hybrid buses the Formula E Panasonic
recharge a battery in three to of public transport solutions as well as electrification solu- Jaguar Racing team and for
six minutes. across the region, where tions for ships and railways. Team Asia New Zealand in the
It is based on OppCharge, traffic emissions have been ABB entered the EV- Jaguar I-Pace eTrophy event
an open interface for DC elec- identified as a major concern charging market in 2010, and respectively.
tric bus charging, which is now in fast-developing cities.” today has an ever-growing
EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 19EVtalk checks out how some of the New Zealand companies are doing with their commitment to electrify at least 30% of
their vehicle fleets by 2019. Spark is among 30 of the country’s employers to agree on the deal.
Spark moving to PHEVs
D
igital services provider
Spark is introducing
Mini Countryman plug-
in hybrids (PHEVs) to its vehi-
cle fleets – probably the first in
Australasia to do so in bulk.
The first 30 are due
towards the end of March,
with a further 40 also
ordered, then another 60
or 80 leased PHEVs could
be added depending upon
demand.
It’s part of the company’s
EV strategy co-ordinated by Marc Solomon
Marc Solomon, Spark’s sourc-
ing business partner in charge of fleets. case, right down to the tyres.”
When the strategy was first conceived about Spark has about 470 vehicles throughout
three years ago, EV selection was minimal com- New Zealand and aims to have about 150
ABB Ltd. pared to today and first-up prices too high. switched.
Air New Zealand Spark also had to consider how its people Staff have been involved in helping test ve-
would use them. hicles and provided feedback, which explains
BMW
“We had a couple of more experimental EVs, why Spark is moving to PHEVs.
Contact Energy including some old Peugeots,” Solomon says. “PHEVs bridge the gap between ICE vehi-
Fonterra These were Ions – rebadged Mitsubishi i-MiEVs. cles and BEVs – you don’t want staff running
Foodstuffs North Island Coincidentally, an electric Peugeot e-208 out of battery in the middle of nowhere or a
supermini with nearly 340km range is likely problem could develop,” Solomon says.
Fuji Xerox to be out later this year - although Spark isn’t “Early adopters might say ‘BEV or nothing’,
Fujitsu considering this vehicle at this stage. and we accept that position.
Giltrap Group Solomon describes the EV strategy’s first “The vehicles we have been looking at
stage as like “dipping your toes in the water”. bridge the divide and look like a normal car.
Hyundai New Zealand That was followed by obtaining some We wanted something that people could drive
ISS Facility Services second-hand Nissan Leafs from the United without too much of a cultural change.
Kiwirail Kingdom, but some difficulties with servicing “We’ve done testing on EVs over the last
and other factors led Spark to rule them out. couple of years and range anxiety is alive
Leaseplan
“We looked at the total package in each and well,” Solomon says.
OCS PHEVs, BEVs “and even a Tesla” were
Opus tested over nearly nine months, including the
Powerco vehicle’s ergonomics, safety, the ride, costs
and more.
Renault New Zealand “We had a whole range of feedback,”
SG Fleet Solomon says.
Spark “Some didn’t have great viewing angles,
and in some instances the reach across to a
The Warehouse
touch screen brought up safety issues.”
Transpower It’s mostly Spark sales staff who use the
Turners Auctions vehicles, so stopping to charge EVs for
Unison lengthy periods is something both staff and
the company want to avoid.
Vodafone “Electrics are brilliant for around town,
Waste Management but once people drive beyond 50km they
Watercare call up and ask for something other than
an electric,” says Solomon, who explains
WEL networks
that some staff have to drive reasonable
Westpac distances.
Xero The Mini Countryman PHEV Continued on page 24
20 | EVTALK MARCH 2019 | www.evtalk.co.nzYou can also read
