Leaf battery trouble dents trade - Sales of the Nissan Leaf have taken - EVs & Beyond
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
NZ’S NEWS SOURCE FOR ELECTRIC, INTELLIGENT AND AUTONOMOUS TRANSPORTATION
MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF EVTALK.CO.NZ – VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 8 | APRIL 2018
Leaf battery New Zealand’s
cheapest new
trouble dents trade plug-in
T
oyota New Zealand has
launched the cheapest new
S
ales of the Nissan Leaf have taken A joint statement from the Ministry of plug-in vehicle available on
a hit after allegations of 30kWh Transport, the New Zealand Automobile the market - its Prius Prime model.
battery degradation were revealed Association and others on the Govern- A single version is available at
in a Flip the Fleet report and subsequent ment’s EV programme leadership group $48,490 drive-away, $5500 less than
publicity. is expected any day. the retail price of a Hyundai Ioniq
The report and related media stories But they are expected to leave the plug-in hybrid.
have contributed to a drop in interest issue mainly to Nissan, which is doing Toyota claims a 63km range
from potential Leaf 30kWh customers – its own internal investigation. and a speed of up to 135kmh. The
even Leafs in general, some dealers say. EV leadership group chairman and RightCar listing for the vehicle
Those contacted by EVtalk were MOT chief executive Peter Mersi says gives it a fuel consumption of 1
reluctant to use their names. But litre/100km and a CO2 rating of just
some say the 30kWh issue has 22gm/km, against the fleet average
come as part of a triple hit to the for New Zealand.
industry. Toyota staff indicated testing
That includes the discovery of around Palmerston North showed
stink bugs on some car import ships that exceeding a range of 50km in
and the Lyttleton Port strike - more normal use is possible.
action is expected from April 20-25 The battery is an 8.8kWh lithium
– which have delayed the arrival of ion unit, twice the size of the existing
many imported vehicles such as the used import Prius plug-in.
Leaf. The charging lead is type two
Even though the Leaf 24kWh and the ministry is aware of the situation and, on a standard socket, it will take
40kWh models are unaffected by the with the 30kWh Leaf and the work Flip 4.5 hours to charge at a RightCar-
battery allegations, dealers we’ve spo- the Fleet did. rated cost of 91 cents. Toyota also
ken to say Leaf enquiries have declined. “We received notification from them offers BYO cable public charging for
Industry statements on the battery prior to them releasing their report.” around $600 and, at 16 amps, the
matter are expected soon and deal- Mersi says it’s primarily an issue for car will fully charge in one hour and
ers say anything that resolves the issue Nissan to address. 50 minutes.
would be welcome. Continued on page 16 The battery features a warming
system for optimum efficiency.
INSIDE There are a range of drive modes,
Mevo on the move 4 with the main electric setting being
Chelsea Sexton’s tour 5 “EV City” which works for maximum
Seeing Auckland via e-bike 9 electric-only driving.
The transport revolution 18 5 18 Continued on page 16
Drive your business forward with
Call Steve Owens now on 021 947 752
NEWSTALK
EVtalk acknowledges the support of our foundation sponsors:
EVtalk Magazine is published
by Auto Media Group
8/152 Quay Street, Limited.
P.O. Box 10 50 10,
Auckland City, 1030.
Ph. 09 309 2444.
EDITOR
Geoff Dobson
geoff@automediagroup.com.au
021 881 823
GROUP EDITOR
AUTO TRADE TITLES
Scott Morgan
021 240 2402
scott@automediagroup.co.nz
BUSINESS MANAGER
Rachel Hadfield
021 778 745
rachel@automediagroup.co.nz
Vehicle Inspection NZ
PUBLISHER
Vern Whitehead
021 831 153
vern@automediagroup.co.nz
MANAGING EDITOR
Richard Edwards
021 556 655
richard@automediagroup.co.nz
GENERAL MANAGER
Deborah Baxter
027 530 5016
deborah@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
identicar.co.nz
2 | EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz
NEWSTALK
WEL, WEL! Fast-charging
the Waikato
W
hen the first of WEL Net-
Charging up in
works’ bright blue slim-line Caro St, Hamilton.
electric vehicle fast-charger
boxes sprouted around the Waikato,
people said they boosted the region’s
reputation as a centre of growth, op-
portunity and innovation.
They’re right.
But the free charging stations are
more than that.
They are also the start of a WEL
Networks’ regionwide rollout remedy
for “range anxiety”, a recognised con-
dition that afflicts EV drivers.
Its symptoms aren’t so different
from the sweaty palms and accelerated
heart rate of a petrol or diesel vehicle
driver when the fuel gauge needle
hovers just above “empty”. But there
the comparison ends.
Petrol stations are everywhere. If
the worst happens, there’s always the
gas can and that universally recognised country. By mid-2017 there were 5000. looking at.”
SOS, the hitchhiker’s thumb. By 2030 you won’t be able to buy a Providing for mass EV use is high
“Fast-chargers give electric vehicle new Audi, BMW or Mercedes car that on the list of new technology-driven
drivers comfort,” WEL Networks assets has a petrol or diesel engine. In the UK challenges facing Waikato community-
management manager Paul Blue says. in 2040 you won’t be allowed to buy a owned WEL Networks, whose sole
“The Waikato is one of the fastest petrol or diesel vehicle from anyone. shareholder is the WEL Energy Trust.
growing regions in New Zealand and “The arrival of the electric vehicle is As the region’s only electricity lines
we need to provide our communities not an ‘if’, it’s a ‘when’.” provider, WEL Networks is front-
with innovative energy solutions that As Blue says, in the New Zealand footing the challenges laid down by
will support this growth.” context EVs are not just a great use of fast-moving changes in household
The distinctive fast-chargers have renewable energy, they marry up per- technology use and demand. It is also
been installed across the region from fectly with this country’s 80% energy meeting the demands of a growth ex-
Raglan to the Hamilton city centre and source – renewable electricity. plosion in the Waikato business sector.
Te Kauwhata. “Electricity and electric vehicles Blue anticipates the galloping pace
Blue (no, the charger colour isn’t is a really good news story for New of change will result in WEL Networks
in his honour) says their numbers will Zealand. It means we are no longer building a much closer, and more ac-
increase as EV popularity grows in the dependent to the same level we were tive, connection with its nearly 90,000
Waikato. on oil-producing countries. We are customers.
The WEL chargers can be found on independent of them. In the past, because of the structure
the international electric network app “This is good for the stability of of the power industry, Waikato peo-
Plug Share, a free device for EV owners the country. It’s good because prof- ple’s contact with the electricity indus-
which provides real-time information its made in New Zealand stay in New try had mostly been through electricity
on where to find chargers throughout Zealand. Electricity companies are retailers.
the world. predominantly owned by New Zea- But with the uptake of the electric
Blue is in no doubt EVs will domi- landers.“ car, the community’s increasing adop-
nate on Waikato roads sooner rather Range anxiety will disappear as car tion of electrically charged batteries (in
than later. manufacturers improve the capability cars and homes) and growing depend-
“It may not look like they are com- of cars, Blue says. ence on electricity provision 24/7
ing fast but they are,” he says. “It’s very fast-moving technology ensures WEL Networks will become
“In 2015, there were 900 EVs in the which every manufacturer of cars is “WEL” known, he says.
EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 3
NEWSTALK
Mevo is on the move
W
ellington-based electric Mevo’s Erik Zydervelt, left,
car-sharing start-up Mevo is and Finn Lawrence.
expanding.
It’s not only increasing the number
of EVs in its Audi A3 e-tron fleet but has
set its sights on moving into five cities
across New Zealand and Australia within
five years.
Founding director and chief ex-
ecutive officer Erik Zydervelt plans to
grow Mevo’s fleet to 50 EVs by the end
of the year and 2000 within the five-
year time frame.
“We’re on track,” he says.
“In our first full year, we grew the
fleet five-fold, starting with three cars “One member told us he drive a new luxury electric car without
and growing to 15.” spends less on a Mevo having to worry about parking, getting
Conversations with stakeholders in a warrant and registration, depreciation
Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane are
than he used to spend on and the other costs involved in owning
continuing apace and Mevo hopes to parking alone.” a car. And they don’t have to clean it.
soon establish in both Lower Hutt and Private car ownership involves having
Auckland. 11 private vehicles off the road, he says. a car sit around for much of the time,
Mevo – a play on the word “move” “We believe that business should he says.
– was founded in December 2016 by be regenerative and also buy carbon Eventually, Zydervelt hopes to see
Nelson-raised friends Zydervelt and credits from Ekos’s project in the South the fleet move into self-driving EVs
Finn Lawrence. Island.” when appropriate.
Zydervelt trained as an “urbanist” – a Mevo has received backing from
specialist in researching city systems. several quarters. Wellington City So how does Mevo work?
He worked in urban research and Council, for instance, has allowed Membership starts at $50 a year.
systems before moving into corporate Mevo to use central business district Using a smartphone app, members can
strategy. carparks (mostly now allocated) and in book, lock and unlock a Mevo EV and
Lawrence studied mechatronics, the suburbs, many of which are com- drive the car from designated pods,
which combines electronics and me- bined with EV charging. usually with a charging station.
chanical engineering, and had worked Z Energy has invested $250,000 in Three tiers of membership are avail-
in start-ups and business. Mevo and the Energy Efficiency and able, for those intending to use a Mevo
Swapping travel stories one day the Conservation Authority (EECA) has pro- car a few times a year to those who use
friends found themselves on the topic vided two matched grants through its it weekly. Hourly rates vary between
of car sharing, which they had both low emission vehicles contestable fund. $11 and $23, depending on the mem-
seen work well abroad. One EECA grant of up to $500,000 bership plan.
They saw an opportunity for electric provides for a fleet of 50 electric cars Electricity, any fuel needed for longer
car sharing to create a more sustaina- and 64 kerbside chargers to go with trips, maintenance, insurance and mile-
ble, environmentally friendly transport Mevo “pods” or customer pick-up age (up to 200km a day) are all included
network for Wellington, and offer an points. in the price.
alternative to personal car ownership That support helps show mobility- Most trips require the driver to bring
for both urban residents and busi- as-a-service (MaaS) is quickly gaining the car back to the pod it was taken
nesses. So they combined their talents support in cities worldwide, Zydervelt from.
to start Mevo. says. But Mevo is trialling a one-way
“Cars are a huge cost for businesses “Car-sharing services are growing service between central Wellington and
and individuals,” Zydervelt says. in popularity because they are cheaper the airport, for example. As the service
Carbon reduction is also a benefit. than owning a vehicle and electrics grows, other A to B points are likely to
Mevo offsets its “lifecycle”: carbon offer the other benefit of a green, low- be introduced.
emissions from the vehicle manufactur- emissions choice. And with car-sharing gaining popu-
ing process, energy generation and the “One member told us he spends less larity here and overseas, it looks as if
small amount of fuel used in its plug- on a Mevo than he used to spend on Mevo is in the driver’s seat.
hybrids by 120%. parking alone.” Visit www.mevo.co.nz for more
Every car-share takes about seven to Zydervelt says members can also information.
4 | EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz
NEWSTALK
EVs marching on, Sexton says
C
alifornian EVangelist stringent emissions targets.
Chelsea Sexton has US president Donald
noticed big advances Trump’s protectionist views
in New Zealand’s EV world are well known, and in his bid
since her last Leading the to shore up US businesses
Charge tour in 2016. there’s the likelihood of a
“The sheer volume of trade stoush between the US
vehicles (from just over 1000 and China.
then to 7233 EVs and hybrids That could impact on
now), and the proliferation of EV makers like Tesla. The
charging stations” are among California electric automaker
them, she says. doubled its sales to more
Sexton was along for the than US$2 billion in China
entire nearly 6000km Lead- last year, but talk of China
ing the Charge EV road trip applying extra tariffs on US
Chelsea Sexton
organised by the Better NZ goods could prove a major
Trust. setback.
It began in Bluff on March 2006 documentary Who different EVs anyway.” Tesla is negotiating to
14 and finished in Cape Killed the Electric Car? As she heads back to the assemble cars in China, an-
Reinga on April 3, taking in Fittingly, she was able to United States, Sexton is ex- other project at possible risk.
most parts of the country. address a gathering for the pecting a fight between the Sexton says all that could
About eight EVs made the follow-up Revenge of the Californian state government impact on EV availability in
full trip, joined along sec- Electric Car during the road and the federal Environmen- other countries such as Nor-
tions of the journey by many trip’s Whanganui stop. tal Protection Agency over way and England.
others. A consulting producer for its possible adoption of less Continued on page 8
EV advocate Mark Nixon
of Christchurch drove one
from Bluff to Hamilton, for
instance.
“It was a great adven-
Moana Blue
ture,” Sexton says after being
chauffeured most of the way
are turning a little
by the Better NZ Trust trustee
Sean Dick in his Tesla Model
green!
S.
Sexton says she finds New
Zealanders more accepting
of EVs this time around.
“They’re no longer the
novelty that they were a
couple of years ago. Peo-
ple are not so cautious and
many did try out EVs at the Chelsea Sexton checks out the
stopovers.” French students’ electric campervan.
She heard from people that film, Sexton hosted a
who came to previous EV question-and-answer ses-
events she was involved with sion with filmgoers. Proceeds
who have since obtained from the event went to Moana Blue’s world class
EVs. Whanganui Green Bikes. vehicle inspection services now offer
“Some have electric bikes A third film dubbed Gen- EV Battery Checks for total peace of mind.
too.” eration EV is on the cards.
Sexton was in New Sexton says she still
Zealand in July and August hasn’t got an EV herself back
last year to address various in California.
events, and has also been “I don’t drive very much
www.moana-blue.com
here to promote films she’s as I can walk or take public
had a hand in, such as the transport. Also, I drive a lot of
EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 5
NEWSTALK
The old and
the new.
Dave Boot
welcomes
EV City is open. guests.
Christchurch gets its own EV City
C
anterbury’s electric be done through nearby EVs
and hybrid vehicle Enhanced.
specialist store EV City EVworld creators Con-
officially opened on April 6. ferenz sponsorship general
Former Christchurch manager Dominic Duncan
mayor and current council- spoke at the opening about
lor Vicki Buck declared EV bringing the EVworld show to
City’s showroom open at 158 Christchurch on November
Wordsworth St in Sydenham, 23 and 24.
Christchurch. That’s because of South Is-
“This is fantastic – I love it,” land demand for a dedicated
Nissan Leaf owner Buck says. show bringing together the
“Everyone I know who full spectrum of electric mo-
hasn’t got an EV says their bility, cars, e-bikes, e-buses
next one will be electric.” and more, he says.
Owner and EV specialist Christchurch has some
Dave Boot.
David Boot welcomed 210 very innovative developments
people and thanked all who lays because of the stink bug free for customers to use. going on, with Yoogo car
had supported the project. issue and industrial action at “These will also be avail- share launched with 100 EVs,
Special guests also includ- the Lyttelton Port. able Friday and Saturday the Zephyr electric air-taxi
ed National Party education His range includes Nissan nights for anyone buying a project, autonomous vehicle
spokeswoman Nikki Kaye Leafs and e-NV200 vans, Nissan Leaf or Toyota Prius trials and others, Duncan
and French students Heloise hybrid Mazdas, Nissan Note plug-in hybrid for taxi or Uber says.
de Bokay and Solene Trin- e-Power hybrids and plug-in purposes,” Boot says. Auckland will also host
quet who are touring New Toyota Prius hybrids. A waiting/lounge area EVworld on August 10 and 11.
Zealand in a Jucy prototype Boot says the vehicles is also available for use by So why establish EV City?
electric campervan. will be sold “ready to go”. customers. “The Government has
Kaye sees EVs as the Customer’s wants will be To add some humour, called for 64,000 EVs by
future, particularly as many taken into consideration and EV City has produced a few 2020 but in Christchurch
young people she has come the vehicles come with all the t-shirts with slogans and little has happened with pri-
across are “passionate about appropriate documentation, graphics. One says, “I love vate industry not answering
the environment”. as well as guarantees and (heart graphic) range anxiety”, the call,” Boot says.
A variety of all-electric warranties. another has a reference to “So let’s do it!”
and hybrid cars were dis- A charging comparator AC/DC charging and a third Boot says many people tell
played – the 580 square shows the different styles of has an image of a leaf holding him EVs are the future.
metre showroom is able to fit charging. binoculars in relation to Leaf “But this is now – not the
28 comfortably. And a 1903 Electric bikes from Watt Spy. future.”
electric car was on show for Wheels will also be available. Boot will be manning the Search for EV City on
the opening. Two 22kW Rolec charg- showroom pretty much by Facebook and Instagram or
Boot says many of the EVs ers with two types of outlets himself for the first year and contact David Boot on 0275
arrived just in time after de- outside the showroom are servicing or other work will 768 007.
6 | EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz
NEWSTALK
First truck conversion
workshop opens
W
aste Management sensitivity.
NZ has opened the The first conversion took
country’s first work- around a month but the work
shop dedicated to convert- time is expected to reduce as
ing diesel trucks into electric more vehicles go through the
vehicles. process.
The company plans to Waste Management man-
convert 20 trucks in its aging director Tom Nickels
national fleet in the next two says he's delighted to open
years. the workshop in what is a
The first conversion is al- major step forward for the
most complete and the truck company and electric ve-
will be used to collect waste From left: Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority chief executive hicles in New Zealand.
from Auckland Hospital. Andrew Caseley, Maungakiekie MP Denise Lee and Waste Management “Our investment in the
managing director Tom Nickels.
The workshop, based at EV workshop will create a
the company’s head office in large fleet operators and training programme with knowledge centre for EV
Mt Wellington, is also open to Waste Management is now in Dutch bus and truck electric conversion in New Zea-
other companies looking to discussions with several. mobility company EMOSS. land and will help us move
transform their vehicles into The workshop is being run The cost of conversion towards our long-term goal
EVs. by a small team of EV and depends on a number of of a fleet of fully electric
There has been a lot of mechanical engineers. variables and is not avail- vehicles.
interest and enquiry from The team completed a able because of commercial Continued on page 25
EVs marching on, Sexton says The students are help-
ing establish links between
New Zealand and French
Continued from page 5 changing, she says. Sexton enjoyed catch- schools.
Meanwhile, she’s urging Talk of national and ing up with two French Sexton noticed this year
New Zealand to “keep go- regional fuel taxes could students, Heloise de Bokay that considerable inter-
ing” towards its EV goals, favour EVs and she also and Solene Trinquet, who est was shown by local
particularly as most of our believes EVs here could are doing a seven-month schools in the Leading the
electricity comes from become more affordable, EV tour of New Zealand in Charge tour. Still more
renewable sources. especially with Govern- a Jucy prototype electric schools could be involved,
“One of the biggest ment support. campervan. something she is keen to
challenges is inconsist- The highlights of her lat- The trio met in Nel- see on her next Leading the
ency,” she says. est stay have been many. son during a Leading the Charge visit.
Even during her latest “A month has gone by Charge stopover in Rich- “I hope to be back as
visit, policies seem to keep very quickly.” mond. soon as I can.”
8 | EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz
Auckland
NZbyEV
Taupo
Connecting the eco-conscious
Napier
Palmerston North
tourists with EV friendly tourism Nelson
Wellington
Christchurch
Queenstown
Dunedin
More power to the pedal
A
uckland visitors and residents can the move. The pace of each tour group is set
check out the city’s highlights on Tours make considerable use of by the riders. Jack says fitness is not a
an electric bike guided tour. Auckland’s award-winning cycleway key factor as e-bikes provide a meas-
Power to the Pedal is rated number network and, after extensive research, ure of equilibrium and enable all riders
one on TripAdvisor for bike tours and Power to the Pedal uses a leading Unit- to maintain a reasonable speed, even
outdoor activities in central Auckland. ed States e-bike brand called Pedego. for those with longstanding injuries or
Eddie Jack, an Auckland resident Power to the Pedal’s longest guided minor health issues.
who moved to the city from Scotland in tour covers about 30km of central Riders’ ages can vary from around
2002, started the e-bike tour business Auckland. It takes in highlights such 14 years to the over 80s.
just over a year ago. as Mt Eden’s summit, the Auckland Briefings are provided before each
He noticed the city had very few Domain, the waterfront, the Viaduct, tour.
cycle tours, a more common feature in Westhaven Marina and more, using Depending on the group’s prefer-
overseas cities.
Jack had enjoyed bike tours in Paris,
Sydney and several other major cities
where e-bikes were available.
He found it a great way to see the
sights “without breaking a sweat”.
“I love cycling and getting out and
about,” Jack says.
In his previous job as a lawyer, he
also preferred a quick and easy trans-
port to work. Checking out Auckland highlights on a Power to
Getting around Auckland on a con- the Pedal tour.
ventional bike requires a fair degree of ence, the guided tours can take in some
fitness, especially to get up the likes of E-bikes are a great way to get around. selected stops, perhaps including a
Mt Eden, he says. coffee break.
“So e-bikes were a no-brainer for cycleways most of the time. “Our guides are 100% local and love
Auckland.” An afternoon tour covering about to explain what makes Auckland such a
He’s watched e-bikes grow in popu- 16km focuses on historical aspects fantastic place to live,” Jack says.
larity around town. of the city and takes a loop around Photos are sent to remind riders of
“You can have a bit of fun and enjoy Grafton Gully, Karangahape Rd, Pon- their tour highlights.
a casual ride with friends.” sonby, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Westhav- Power to the Pedal rents out e-bikes
Power to the Pedal believes bike en and the Viaduct. too, whether for a few hours or a full
tours are best experienced in small “It’s a bit more off the beaten track,” day.
groups, so tours are limited to six riders Jack says. “We’re also finding that locals are
plus a guide. Power to the Pedal also offers a taking our e-bikes out on rentals with a
“We like the idea of engagement and unique evening tour of the city lights, view to doing something of an extend-
providing a more personal experience mainly along the waterfront, includ- ed test ride - to work out whether they
so that number is about ideal to han- ing a view of the now LED lit Auckland want to buy one,” Jack says.
dle,” Jack says. Harbour Bridge, with its lights powered “Safe to say, the usual post-ride
It also avoids issues around taking by solar and battery technology. feedback is that they do.
larger groups together through traffic About 90% of the evening tour is on “We can give our riders plenty of route
lights and junctions. cycleways and is all on well-lit paths, suggestions and insider tips, to make the
Cycle-specific headsets are used including Auckland’s famous Lightpath, most of their time in the saddle.”
so riders can receive commentary and also known as the Pink Path. Lights and Visit www.powertothepedal.com for
safety instructions from their guide on high visibility gear are provided. more information.
Power to the Pedal YOUR LISTING HERE!
Email: info@powertothepedal.com Promote your business with our ‘NZbyEV’ monthly feature.
Phone: +64 21 082 94218 Connect eco-conscious tourists with EV friendly tourism operators.
www.powertothepedal.com/ For more info talk to Rachel Hadfield
The best way to see Auckland?
Phone: +64 21 778 745 or Email: rachel@automediagroup.co.nz
- by electric bike! #1 rated guided tours and rentals.
EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 9
NEWSTALK
It’s a matter of courtesy
E
lectric courtesy cars have begun The cars are mainly Nissan Leafs, plicants will be notified once decisions
arriving at the first of 25 auto- EVincible’s Mark Nixon says. have been made.
motive workshops around the The project will give workshop cus- Round five is expected to open in
country. tomers a chance to test drive an EV. August.
Sonter Automotive in Christchurch is It will also enable the workshops to The Government established the
among the early recipients, along with increase their familiarity with EVs and fund to support a reduction in carbon
Papamoa Automotive Service Centre in develop EV servicing skills through emissions by encouraging innovation
Tauranga and Goodhue Automotive in training modules developed by co-ap- and investment that accelerates the
Hamilton. plicant AECS Ltd for upskilling automo- uptake of electric and other low emis-
EVincible was given $263,450 for tive workshop technicians. sion vehicles.
the courtesy cars in the Energy Ef- AECS held the first EV training semi- It provides up to $6 million a year
ficiency and Conservation Authority nar in Auckland on April 9. Ten more are to co-fund - up to 50% - projects with
(EECA) low emission vehicles contest- planned around the country in 2018, private and public sector partners in
able fund third round. some in conjunction with the MTA. areas where commercial returns aren’t
The EV consulting and project man- Meanwhile, fourth-round EECA fund yet strong enough to justify full private
ager services company is co-ordinating applications closed on April 11. investment.
the roll-out of battery electric courtesy Proposals will be evaluated by an Visit www.eeca.govt.nz and www.
cars and associated charging stations. independent panel and successful ap- aecs.net.
POWER DEALS FOR EV USERS
Cost to
Company Energy Deals Where
charge LEAF*
Plug-in Vehicle Fuel Package Auckland $5.75
20% discount on your energy bill from 9pm – 7am, available on multiple properties,
Wellington $5.82
guaranteed discount for 2 years from signing up to offer, 10% PPD is included in
these calculations. Christchurch $5.63
Electric Car Plan
Super-low night rates that start at the earlier time of 9pm, until 7am daily. Available Auckland $4.91
for your entire home’s electricity needs. Rates are fixed for 3 years and includes Wellington $4.15
20% PPD. And, join before 31 August 2018 and get a year’s worth of free EV charg- Christchurch $2.80
ing on us! (bill credit of up to $300)
Auckland $5.86
Contact Freedom plan: Excellent night rates, no fixed term, 20% PPD has been included,
Wellington $4.89
Energy check if the matching daytime kWh rate will affect your overall bill.
Christchurch $3.41
Auckland $6.17
Ecotricity Low Solar: Low Usage plan for EVs & can buy back solar energy, no fixed term Wellington $4.50
Christchurch $4.53
One Plan with Hour of Power: Free hour of off-peak power daily – included Auckland $6.46
Electric Kiwi and calculated to be 2 kWh for charging at 8 amps. Note: this could be different Wellington $6.48
depending on your designated Hour of Power. Christchurch $6.71
Auckland $5.79 #
Wholesale rates plus their Flick Fee: No fixed term, EV rate in Wellington.
Flick Electric Wellington $3.58 #
Calculated using an average spot price of 5.7c per kWh.
Christchurch $4.36 #
Auckland $6.61
Classic plan: Excellent night rates, no fixed term, 10% PPD has been included,
Genesis Energy Wellington $4.10
check if the matching daytime kWh rate will affect your overall bill.
Christchurch $3.62
Paua to the Cheap As Plan with EV night rates: No fixed term. Calculated using an average
Wellington $3.25 #
People spot price of 5.7c per kWh
*Approximate cost for a full charge of a 24kWh LEAF in the 3 largest centres of NZ.
Please note that rates vary around New Zealand – the above costs were from Mt Wellington in Auckland, Northland in Wellington and
Linwood in Christchurch. They can also depend on your meter type & the company you use. Prices vary at the different times of the day eg
charging during the day may have higher costs. Flick Electric in Christchurch has higher daytime rates in Winter due to variable pricing from
the lines company. The rates we have used above are calculated each month using a low user cost, overnight rates, includes 10% charging
loss, prompt payment discounts (PPD) if available and GST, excludes daily charge. Please note that prices were correct at time of publishing
and are subject to change. Please contact us if you would like any clarification.
# Spot prices can go up and down as they are affected by demand in energy and weather conditions. We have calculated these prices using
the average spot price of 5.7c per kWh at night over the last 7 years, however this is no guarantee of current or future prices.
10 | EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nzNEWSTALK
Find your new EVs here!
EV FRANCHISE DEALER LIST NEW EV CAR TYPES
NAME PRICING APPROX
MAKE MODEL TYPE
AUDI / HYUNDAI / VOLKSWAGEN RRP est. RANGE KMS
Farmer Auto Village BMW i3 BEV $76,900 200 km
07 578 6017 i3s BEV $84,300 200 km
Mt Maunganui
info@farmerautovillage.co.nz
Hyundai Ioniq BEV $59,990 220 km
116 Hewletts Road, Mt Maunganui
Ioniq Elite BEV $65,990 220 km
HYUNDAI
Renault Zoe 40 kWh BEV $68,990 300 km
Energy Motors
06 759 8070 | hyundai@energymotors.co.nz New Plymouth Kangoo van BEV $74,990 160 km
Cnr Gill & Eliot Streets, New Plymouth Model S 75/100
Tesla BEV $121,395 350 - 540 km
kWh
BMW Model X 75/100
BEV $129,145 380 - 475 km
Auckland City BMW Auckland kWh
Winger BMW Wellington Volkswagen e-Golf BEV $61,990 220 km
A3 Sportback
Christchurch BMW Christchurch Audi PHEV $69,900 45 km + 600 km
e-tron
MITSUBISHI Q7 e-tron PHEV $158,400 54 km + 800 km
Archibald Motors Kaitaia BMW i3 - Range Extender PHEV $84,500 200 km + 130 km
Pacific Motor Group Whangarei i3s - REX PHEV $91,900 200 km + 130 km
Simon Lucas North Shore Auckland i8 PHEV $281,200 37 km + 400 km
Andrew Simms Mitsubishi Auckland 225xe PHEV $69,800 41 km + 550 km
Auckland Motors Mitsubishi Auckland 330e PHEV $91,600 40 km + 550 km
Roger Gill Mitsubishi Pukekohe
530e PHEV $136,400 50 km + 600 km
Saunders Mitsubishi Thames
740e PHEV $202,700 48 km + 550 km
Ingham Mitsubishi Hamilton
X5 xDrive40e PHEV $152,700 30 km + 800 km
Bay City Mitsubishi Tauranga
Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in PHEV $53,990 63 km + 1040 km
Piako Mitsubishi Rotorua
Ioniq Plug-in Elite PHEV $59,990 63 km + 1040 km
Wings & Wheels Taupo
Kia Niro PHEV $55,990 55 km + 850 km
W R Phillips, New Plymouth New Plymouth
Mini Countryman PHEV $59,900 30km + 500 km
Wayne Kirk Mitsubishi Napier
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV $60,990 50 km + 500 km
Wanganui Mitsubishi Whanganui
Mercedes Benz C350 e Sedan PHEV $96,400 31 km + 700 km
McVerry Crawford Mitsubishi Fielding
C350 e Estate PHEV $99,400 31 km + 700 km
McVerry Crawford Mitsubishi Palmerston Nth
E350 e Sedan PHEV $143,500 30 km + 600 km
Wairarapa Mitsubishi Masterton
GLE500 e PHEV $149,900 30 km + 700 km
Brendan Foot Mitsubishi Lower Hutt
S500 e PHEV $255,000 30 km + 700 km
Wellington Mitsubishi Wellington
Porsche Cayenne S e-hybrid PHEV $177,800 20 km + 750 km
Houston Mitsubishi Nelson
Panamera Turbo S
Houston Motors Blenheim PHEV $428,400 30 km + 750 km
e-hybrid
Christchurch Mitsubishi Christchurch Toyota Prius Prime PHEV $48,490 50 km + 1000 km
Caroline Mitsubishi Timaru Volvo XC90 T8 PHEV $134,900 44 km + 600 km
Stephen Duff Motors Dunedin XC60 T8 PHEV $94,900 40 km + 600 km
Balclutha Mitsubishi Balclutha BEV - Battery Electric Vehicle
Southern Mitsubishi Invercargill PHEV - Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle
116
116 Hewletts
HewlettsRoad
Road
Mount
MountMaunganui,
Maunganui,Tauranga City
Tauranga City
Tel: 07 578 6017
Tel: 07 578 6017
www.farmerautovillage.co.nz
www.farmerautovillage.co.nz
AUTOVILLAGE ®
Follow us on Facebook
ELECTRIC VEHICLES AND PLUG-IN HYBRIDS AT THE ELECTRIC AUTOVILLAGE
EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 11
MARCH
EVTALKFind your
USED EV CAR TYPES
MAKE MODEL TYPE PRICING RRP EST. APPROX RANGE KMS
BMW i3 BEV $38k - $70k 200 km
Hyundai Ioniq BEV $52k - $57k 220 km
Ioniq Elite BEV $55k - $60k 220 km
Kia Soul EV BEV $38k 150 km
Mercedes Benz B250 e BEV $48k - $51k 140 km
Mitsubishi i-Miev BEV $11k - $17k 100 km
USED DEALERS LIST
NAME CITY
B-Miev Van BEV $12k 100 km
Cash Back Cars Whangarei
Nissan LEAF Generation 1 BEV $9.5k - $18k 120 km
Autolink Cars | 09 378 9090
Auckland
LEAF Gen 2 - 24 kWh battery BEV $14k - $28k 135 km autolinkcarsltd@gmail.com
GVI Electric
LEAF Gen 2 - 30 kWh battery BEV $24K - $43k 180 km Auckland
09 216 7106 | ev@gvi.kiwi
LEAF ZE1 - 40 kWh battery BEV $53k - $64k 250 km Wholesale Autos | 0800 405 065
Auckland
info@wholesaleautos.co.nz
e-NV200 van BEV $20k - $26k 140 km
Harwood Cars | 027 492 2218
Auckland
Renault Zoe 22 kWh BEV $30k 220 km www.harwoodcars.com
Zoe 40 kWh BEV $43k - $48k 300 km Volt Vehicles
0800 748 658 / 022 4800 722 Auckland
Smart Fortwo BEV $20k 100 km david@voltvehicles.co.nz
Tesla S 75 BEV $118k 350 km PlugN Drive NZ Auckland
S P85 BEV $97.5k 350 km Farmer Auto Village
07 578 6017 Tauranga
S 90D BEV $149k 420 km info@farmerautovillage.co.nz
X 75D BEV $120k 340 km EV Central | 021 184 2157
Taupo
inquiries@evcentral.co.nz
X 90D BEV $170k 410 km
Drive EV
Volkswagon e-Golf - 24kWh battery BEV $40k 130 km 027 521 0429 | 07 378 0082 Taupo
steve@driveev.co.nz
e-Golf - 36kWh battery BEV $61k - $63k 200 km
The Car Man New Plymouth
Audi A3 Sportback E-Tron PHEV $55k 45 km + 600 km
Coventry Cars Hybrid & Electric
Q7 e-tron PHEV $135k 54 km + 800 km 04 384 4536 Wellington
BMW i3 REX PHEV $40k - $65k 200 km + 150 km salesteam@coventrycars.co.nz
225xe PHEV $55k 41 km + 550 km
Gazley Wellington
Cooper Auto Company Wellington
330e PHEV $50k - $77k 37 km + 550 km
The Car Company Nelson Nelson
X5 xDrive40e PHEV $140k 30 km + 800 km HVS Motors Timaru
Hopmans QEII Quality Cars
i8 PHEV $125k - $235k 37 km + 400 km 0800 HOPMAN (467 626) Christchurch
Mercedes Benz C350 e Sedan PHEV $64k - $90k 31 km + 700 km
sales@hopmans.co.nz
EV City | 03 972 5505
GLE500 PHEV $150k 30 km + 700 km Christchurch
contact@evcity.kiwi
E350 e PHEV $120k 30 km + 600 km Metro Christchurch
S500 e PHEV $101k 30 km + 700 km 03 348 5855 Christchurch
chrisn@metrochch.co.nz
Mini Countryman Cooper SE PHEV $67k 30km + 500 km
Stadium Cars Christchurch
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV $29k - $68k 50 km + 500 km
Auto Court | 03 455 3000
Porsche Cayenne S e-hybrid PHEV $135k 20 km + 750 km Dunedin
info@autocourt.net.nz
Toyota Plug-in Prius PHEV $19.5k - $36k 26 km + 800 km HVS Motors Dunedin
Volvo XC90 T8 PHEV $130k 44 km + 600 km Gilmour Automotive Dunedin
BEV - Battery Electric Vehicle DK Motors Dunedin
PHEV - Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle HVS Motors Gore
12 | EVTALK MARCH 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nzQuality used EVs here!
Electric & Hybrid
EVCENTRAL
Vehicles
• 3 YEAR BATTERY WARRANTY AVAILABLE ON ALL MODELS
• FLEET SALES SPECIALISTS
• THE WIDEST RANGE OF EV MODELS IN NEW ZEALAND
• FREE NATIONWIDE DELIVERY
158 Wordsworth Street, Sydenham, Christchurch
PHONE: 021 184 2157 03 972 5505 / 027 576 8007
EMAIL: inquiries@evcentral.co.nz contact@evcity.kiwi
ADDRESS: 87 Tuwharetoa Street Taupo 3330 www.evcity.kiwi
ELECTRIC VEHICLES SPECIALISTS
Contact us for Gen1 and Gen2 Nissan Leafs
and Nissan NV200 vans
Ope n
n SOUTH ISLANDS LARGEST NISSAN
e v e EV AND HYBRID DEALER
S s
Day
Over 50 Leaf – e-NV200 – Prius – E-Note
Outlander – Ignis – Camry – Harrier
In stock and on the water
Check out our full stock hopmans.co.nz/ev-electric
Wholesale Autos ǀ www.wholesaleautos.co.nz All electric vehicles include NZ certified charging cord, English
dash instrument cluster conversion and all on road costs.
info@wholesaleautos.co.nz ǀ P: 0800 40 50 65
272 Great South Road, Takanini, Auckland Cnr Travis Rd & Bower Ave 0800 HOPMAN (467 626)
sales@hopmans.co.nz www.hopmans.co.nz
Full range of Support & Service | NZ’s largest range of EVs | We ship nationwide
Contact our EV Expert Andrew on 021 454 287 | www.gvielectric.kiwi | 575 Great South Road, Penrose
EVTALK MARCH 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 13MICRO EVS
Electric bike just the ticket
Y
ou’ve just gotta get an elec- ing 40km to 50km. After 23km
tric bike. the battery is barely down to half
Test one for free or hire strength, and that’s even after a
one to try it out – few can resist. few steep sections.
I grabbed a Big Street Bikers’ Disc brakes ensure plenty of
(BSB) urban commuter e-bike stopping power, required when a
from BSB’s Rechargery to try pedestrian steps out on the road
over Easter. It has teamed up in front of me near the Viaduct.
with Mercury to provide a solar- I don’t even have time to sound
powered electric bike recharging the bell or yell a warning. Not sure
station in Auckland. who got the biggest fright.
Just the short kilometre hop The Shimano seven-speed
back to the office was a treat. I gears are easy to use – I generally
can understand why e-bike rid- stay in top gear unless starting.
ers have mile-wide smiles, espe- The BSB e-bike also has an
cially when the sun’s out and the intelligent LCD controller, giving
scenery breathtaking. you all the information you need at
I was back in no time though, a glance, including battery power,
thanks to the cycle paths and speed, distance, pedal assist level
short waterfront stretches around and more.
the Viaduct Harbour. A bright LED headlight and bat-
The journey home was a tery powered rear light ensure the
different story – a puncture at rider is visible, although I also have
Newton caused by glass at the flashing rear lights on my Livall
intersection cut the ride short. smart helmet and put an extra
I always carry a spare tube EVtalk editor Geoff Dobson with the BSB urban e-bike. flashing light on the handlebars
and gas cylinder for my “bullet- with daylight saving ended.
proof” road bike’s high-pressure tyres get plenty of exercise using lower pedal I prefer wearing bright and high vis-
but these were no good for the fatter assist. ibility gear too – anything to ensure you
e-bike ones. The 36V 300W brushless motor are better seen, especially in dimmer
Call home, get a lift in peak traffic, packs plenty of punch. winter light.
try to fix with puncture repair kit but the The only time I use the thumb throt- The cycleways make riding a dream
patch doesn’t stick properly – or else tle is for a bit of extra oomph up a steep – I now only have to dice with traffic on
I’ve missed more glass cuts. section while carrying a heavy backpack the home stretch or in a short section
Rory Hunter from the Rechargery (the laptop, bike charger, lunch, clothes between the Nelson St and Quay St
kindly gives me a new tube and I’m on and other gear) on the 23km stretch cyclepaths.
my way again. from home to work. E-bike riders should also remember
I’m told the Rechargery is investigat- I like the Mercury yellow livery on to warn people on the shared pathways
ing getting puncture proof tyres – a the e-bike too – stands out. Customers that they are about to pass from behind.
good idea from what I’ve seen. can, however, get a custom paint job Sound a bell or call out if necessary.
There’s a considerable amount of and logos added for little extra cost. Many people have difficulty judging an
glass on the cycle paths and at inter- Discounts are also offered to Mer- e-bike’s speed, so care is needed – es-
sections lately. I wonder who cleans it cury customers for selected e-bikes. pecially in traffic.
up? When I’m stopped, I usually try to BSB says its bikes have been tested I can see why e-bikes are popular
shift the worst of it. and tweaked to suit New Zealand con- though – I’ve noticed many more on
Back on the road and cycleways ditions. Sure seems that way to me. the cycleways this year.
again, the BSB bike zooms along. In It’s comfortable to ride, handling They’re quick, take steep sections
fact, I’m hardly out of three on the 0-5 bumps and potholes with ease – espe- in their stride and you can ride them in
speed pedal assist and still doing around cially with front fork suspension (which your work clothes (I’ve seen people in
30kmh-plus. you can turn off if you wish). suits on them).
It almost needs another gear be- A step-through, it’s easy to dis- A BSB urban e-bike is priced at
cause the bike can hit close to 40kmh mount or rest while waiting for lights to $2500, with Mercury customers getting
and my feet seem a blur. change, and these are a popular style. it for $2250.
I don’t have to work up a sweat ei- The 10AH removable battery holds Give one a try - the Big Street Bikers’
ther, although an e-bike will still let me a charge well, easily capable of do- team at the Rechargery can help.
14 | EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nzMICRO EVS
Solar-powered
e-bikes.”
He says the chance of a free test ride
is a big drawcard but many visitors also
pop in out of curiosity.
Rechargery runs hot
A variety of e-bikes - from the popu-
lar step-throughs to mountain e-bikes
and folding models - are offered at the
Rechargery.
Those wanting to buy an e-bike can
N
ew Zealand’s first public solar- up to our image of a 100% pure New order one there and the bike is brought
powered electric bike charging Zealand. in from BSB headquarters.
station is running hot. “We’re chuffed to have the support The fact that Mercury customers can
The Rechargery has been busy since of Mercury to get the concept off the get a $250 discount on their e-bike is
opening on February 15 with lots of ground. They have done a great job in also popular with buyers, Hunter says.
electric bikers popping in, Matt Weav- raising the profile of electric bikes so it The Rechargery at 18 Viaduct Har-
ers says. was a natural alignment for us.” bour Ave is open 7am-6pm Monday to
He’s the co-founder of Big Street Weavers says it’s a sustainable step Friday and 10am-3pm on Saturday and
Bikers (BSB) which runs the con- Sunday.
verted container facility next to Visit www.bigstreetbikers.co.nz for
Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, at the more information.
bottom of the Nelson St bike path.
“The moment people get on MICRO EVS
electric bike for the first time is a
Exercise. Enjoyment. Freedom.
wonderful thing to see and that’s Book your FREE test ride online at www.electrify.nz
happening every day,” Weavers Reptila
900
says.
New Zealand's
“We want it to become a home Electric Bike Specialists
for the electric bike culture of North Shore
Auckland City
Auckland and that’s slowly hap- Tauranga
pening - which is really cool.” The Rechargery, Auckland’s solar- Hamilton
powered electric bike facility. Dunedin
Many car users are also asking Showrooms AKL City : 09 8892019 North Shore: 09 211105070 Tauranga: 027 675 1521
questions about how it all works, Dunedin: 021 035 9820 Hamilton warehouse: 07 8080404
then taking an e-bike test ride, Weav- in the right direction to help solve the
ers says. city’s traffic issues.
eat
Check out our gr
BSB has joined with power company As a pilot scheme, the Rechargery
Mercury to use an array of solar panels will run at least to the end of April then le ct ion
supported by batteries to provide it might become a permanent fixture electric bike se
most of the power e-bikes need to get and the first stage of a point-to-point starting from
around. e-bike share system which runs on $2599
Aucklanders and visitors can test sunshine. For more info or to find a dealer near you contact us at:
ride an e-bike around the harbour area “We’re huge fans of electric trans- 0800 311 011 | www.wattwheels.co.nz | sales@wattwheels.co.nz
or even hire one for a full day. port in general and the Rechargery is
BSB also has ride-to-own subscrip- a wonderful opportunity for us to help Experience the
tion plans, designed to make e-bikes inspire more Kiwis to experience the Ride of Your Life!
more affordable and accessible for joy of riding e-bikes,” Mercury chief
commuters and students – with dis- marketing officer Julia Jack says.
counts available for Mercury custom- “The fact that we’re helping to pow-
ers. er the Rechargery with Mercury solar is
TACT
Rechargery visitors can bring their a great bonus and the perfect example CON DAY
O
US T
own e-bike to charge for free. of energy made wonderful.”
021 685 026 / info@stormrides.nz / www.stormrides.nz
“The solar-powered shop concept Rory Hunter is among several staff
has proven to be a hit with every- at the Rechargery helping customers.
one. Most people are enamoured of He says there’s miles of smiles from
the thought that we are providing a people who return from test riding an
transport solution that doesn’t rely on e-bike.
digging up old dinosaurs and wreck- Many go on to hire or buy one,
ing the planet,” Weavers says. he says. Age doesn’t seem to matter
“It’s the first of its kind in New either. Giving Kiwis a reason to ride
09 4799274
Zealand and lots of Kiwis that pop by “We have people in suits and from info@electricbikes.co.nz
are quite proud that it’s actually living the young to the elderly try out the
EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nz | 15NEWSTALK
Leaf battery trouble dents trade
Continued from page 1 has yet been publicised. alleged some two-year-old 30kWh
“I think the recent decision of Nis- VIA chief executive and EV leader- Leaf battery packs were reportedly
san Japan to undertake an exchange ship group member David Vinsen led degrading at about three times the rate
programme reflects that.” an industry delegation to Taiwan this of the 24kWh variant and the problem
He’s referring to a move to have month to check with battery makers appeared to be accelerating.
Nissan Leaf owners in Japan exchange about getting replacement batteries for Flip the Fleet says it alerted Nissan
their old batteries for refabricated EVs like the Leaf. and provided a draft report, estimat-
ones under a new, fee-based sys- The visit coincided with the Taipei ing about 600 30kWh Leafs are on the
tem. It will cover 24kWh, 30kWh and International Auto Parts and Accesso- road here with at least another 180
40kWh batteries. ries Show Trade Fair on April 11-14. due.
Nissan is using the battery refabrica- Meanwhile, potential Kiwi buyers of “We do not know for certain what
tion capabilities of 4R Energy Corp, a 30kWh Leafs are being cautious and the underlying causes of the observed
company established through a joint dealers say the issue is affecting sales. rapid decline are,” Flip the Fleet says.
venture with Sumitomo Corp, with a The 30kWh battery issue appears to It suggests a combination of el-
new factory in Namie, eastern Japan, have impacted on prices at auctions in evated temperatures while the battery
serving as a global centre for 4R. Japan too. is highly charged could be a factor.
Old batteries are planned for energy One report suggests Nissan Leaf Rapid charging alone cannot explain
storage systems and possibly for use in 30kWh prices in Japan are now around the observations, Flip the Fleet says.
vehicles such as electric forklifts. a million yen (NZ$12,845) when they Insufficient testing has been done
“As demand for electric vehicles are normally about Y1.3m to Y1.5m to determine whether the range is af-
grows, the number of used batteries (NZ$16,700 to NZ$19,267) as Kiwi in- fected, it says.
will increase significantly,” Nissan says. terest in obtaining them falters. “We advise all buyers of any EV mod-
“Nissan hopes that by reclaiming So how did the situation come el to always get a battery scan check
these batteries, it can help lower bat- about? before purchase, where possible.”
tery replacement costs and heighten Flip the Fleet, a national “citizen Consumer New Zealand says it
the used-car value of electric vehicles. science” coalition of more than 640 believes owners with cars exhibiting
“This will enhance the electric-car electric and plug-in vehicles owners the problem have a case for recourse
ownership experience, which in turn who share data on the performance under the Consumer Guarantees Act.
will help promote their use, ultimately of their vehicles in New Zealand, says Meanwhile, in some good news for
contributing to lower CO2 emissions.” it had fielded an increasing number of Nissan, its new Leaf has been named
Mersi says he will welcome the queries from concerned 30kWh Leaf the “2018 World Green Car” at the
results of Nissan’s review of the 30KWh owners in the months leading up to 2018 New York International Auto
battery issue when it is completed. the release of its report. Show (March 30-April 8).
Nissan New Zealand managing di- The owners had noted a fall in their Nissan says it remains on track to
rector John Manley has been reported battery state of health (SoH) or bars. deliver the new Leaf to the New Zea-
as saying a thorough internal investiga- Flip the Fleet enlisted help to get more land market next year.
tion is being held into the allegations battery scans. Its statistician, Dr Daniel More than 300,000 Leaf electric
of excessive degradation of the Leaf Myall, and others in the organisation cars have been sold worldwide.
30kWh batteries. analysed the data. Visit www.flipthefleet.org for more
No timeframe for the investigation The report released on March 16 information.
New Zealand’s cheapest new plug-in
Continued from page 1 erator to act as a second electric drive
Specification levels are solid, with motor, increasing available electric-
dual-zone air-conditioning, satel- only power and reducing engine
lite navigation, premium JBL stereo, start-up.
adaptive cruise control, autonomous “This is the $150 a year car,” Toyota
emergency braking, lane keeping sys- NZ general manager of product and
tem and road sign assist. There is one new vehicles sales Neeraj Lala says.
main option, a leather interior. “That’s the yearly running costs
It also features a gas-injection you’ll pay in New Zealand for the Prius
heat pump, which can heat the vehi- Prime according to Energywise.
cle with warmth captured from the the standard Prius, it features a new “We are quite confident with where
outside air. one-way gear within the transaxle this car is priced and its position in the
Although the drivetrain is similar to which allows the hybrid system gen- market.”
16 | EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nzDISTRIBUTED BY
DELTA AC MINI EV CHARGER
Modern and stylish design COMMERCIAL
Up to 32A @ 230V charging
FLEET
Max. output power: 7.36 kW
IEC 62196-2 Type 1 / Type 2 tethered plug and Type 2 socket
PARKING
User-friendly interface and RFID authentication
Easy installation and wiring RESIDENTIAL
Built-in network connectivity (OCPP)
IP55 protection and IK08 vandal-proof casing SERVICE STATION
www.powersystems.co.nzINTELLIGENT TRANSPORT
Connected Vehicles
The transport revolution
T
ransport is undergoing Lyft’s interpretation of
a revolution. how a city streetscape
could look.
City residents are
already using a variety of
ways to get around and the
present-day vehicle owner-
ship model is expected to all
but disappear.
With little need for
carparking, dwellings such
as Auckland’s new “Daisy”
apartment block are now
foregoing private park-
ing, especially with public
transport close by, and are
opting instead for a couple
of car-sharing spaces and
bicycle (including electric
bike) spaces.
There’s even talk about
how to use parking build-
ings and spaces when they
become vacant.
Thought-provoking ideas and what can be done with Twyford says New is seen as a world leader in
around transportation and it, cross-train staff and build ITS, pointing to the self-
city living were presented by opportunities, rethink com-
Zealand is seen piloted electric air taxi trial
keynote speaker Greg Lind- munity benefits and strate- as a world leader in Canterbury by Zephyr Air-
say and others to about 150 gies, explore demand and in ITS, pointing works as an example.
delegates at the Intelligent reshape people’s approach to the self-piloted Zephyr Airworks chief
Transport Systems (ITS) NZ to transport, create mobility executive Fred Reid talks up
“T-Tech” Confer- as a service roadmap,
electric air taxi trial New Zealand as a country
ence in Auckland launch a micro-transit in Canterbury by with a “can do” attitude and
on March 19 and pilot, transition from Zephyr Airworks as the right sort of regulations
20. transport operators to an example. to allow that.
The New Cities mobility managers and It was selected for the
Foundation senior embrace connected trial ahead of other coun-
fellow, Lindsay mobility. tries, mainly on the basis of
outlined a pos- He broadly labelled an 18-point checklist.
sible future where transport as taxis, ush- to how New Zealand can Dubbed Cora, the auton-
city residents Greg Lindsay ers, conveyors, buses, benefit from the $1.5 billion omous vertical take-off and
could use a variety rovers and shuttles. annual expected value to the landing aircraft is capable of
of transport options from Autonomous vehicles national economy from ITS. carrying two passengers on
ride-share and autonomous (AVs) can drop people off The value was high- short trips and has an experi-
shuttles to cycling or other and park themselves but lighted in a new report mental airworthiness certifi-
alternatives. operators need to work to- “Unlocking Commercial cate from the New Zealand
Cities will change as a gether to ensure “no zombie Opportunities of Intelligent Civil Aviation Authority.
result, Lindsay says. AVs” where empty shuttles Transport Systems” released The Business NZ report,
He suggests forming take up street space, he says. by Business NZ. which also considered
steering committees to en- He painted a picture of Transport minister Phil drones, smart logistics and
sure people get the transport many possibilities, includ- Twyford announced at T- AVs, says New Zealand has a
they want rather than just ing AV “shops” coming to Tech that a new Future Tech- good regulatory and busi-
waiting for companies like designated areas close to nology Leadership Group ness environment to benefit
Uber to provide them. residents, and says it’s up to could establish a 10-year from ITS.
He also urges people to people to decide. roadmap to do just that. An example of how tech-
know what data is needed Those possibilities extend Twyford says New Zealand Continued on page 19
18 | EVTALK APRIL 2018 | www.evtalk.co.nzYou can also read
