EV numbers slow in November, but pick-up expected

This story first appeared in the December issue of EVtalk – CLICK HERE to download the magazine FREE

Electric vehicle numbers may have slowed in November, but dealerships say December’s off to a good start.

That would indicate November’s increase of 400 EVs on October – compared with a 640 jump from September to October – is an aberration.

Still, electric and hybrid light vehicle registrations did reach 11,255, which is 3255 more than the initial 8000 EV target for the end of this year.

Predictions are that the 12,000 mark should be hit by the end of January.

The EV numbers were “a little interesting” for November, Genuine Vehicle Group general manager Hayden Johnston says.

“November for us was solid numbers wise, but we did struggle with lack of supply towards the end of the month.

“December is off to a strong start with good enquiries and enthusiastic purchasers.”

Johnston says more competition in the market is evident with an increasing number of dealers “trying to jump on the EV bandwagon”.

“This could cause a surge in uncertainty for EV buyers if they arrive at a yard that has EVs at a price point but no idea what they are selling,” he says.
“This is a huge concern for us with many reports of bad EV experiences at yards already.”

Autolink Cars managing director Henry Schmidt agrees with Johnston, adding the November slow down has hit the internal combustion engine (ICE) market as well.

“I think the market in general is quiet,” Schmidt says. He’s uncertain about the reasons other than people concentrating on Christmas.

“Phone enquiries have been very quiet, and haven’t really picked up much in December,” he adds.

However, Schmidt expects interest in EVs to resume at pace once people get back from holiday in early January.
“We just need another fuel price rise and interest will pick up too.”

Schmidt believes government incentives may also been needed early next year to further encourage New Zealand’s EV market.