NordEast expands dealer network as Geely EV sales surge

NordEast Vehicle Distributors has expanded its nationwide retail network with new dealerships in Palmerston North and Nelson as demand for the Geely, Zeekr and Farizon electric vehicle brands continues to grow.

A new Robertson Motor Group dealership opened in Palmerston North on June 2 representing Geely, Zeekr and Farizon, while Christchurch-based Cockram Motor Limited will open a Geely and Farizon dealership in Nelson on July 1.

The expansion comes amid strong growth for the Geely brand, which NordEast says is up 551% year-on-year, while the Zeekr 7X was New Zealand’s top-selling premium vehicle across all powertrains in April.

NordEast Vehicle Distributors group general manager Dane Fisher says the network expansion reflects the momentum the brands are building in the New Zealand market.

“The growth we’re seeing speaks for itself with Geely up 551% year-on-year and the Zeekr 7X topping the premium segment in April across all powertrains.

“As more New Zealanders embrace electrified mobility, our nationwide presence will expand to meet that demand, supported by our trusted partners,” Fisher says.

NordEast says demand is also building for the Farizon V7E electric van, with the first five shipments already pre-sold ahead of arrival.

The company says fleet operators are showing growing interest in electrified commercial vehicles as they look to reduce operating costs and lower emissions.

A Cockram Motor Limited spokesperson says strong demand for electric vehicles in the Nelson region supported the decision to add the Geely and Farizon brands.

“We are proud partners of the Giltrap Group across multiple brands, and adding Geely and Farizon to our portfolio was a natural next step given the strong demand we’re seeing in the region.

“We see significant growth potential for both brands in Nelson and the wider Tasman region,” the spokesperson says.

The additions increase the Geely and Farizon dealer networks to eight locations nationwide, while Zeekr is now represented at seven locations across New Zealand.

The new Robertson dealership is located at 582 Main Street, Palmerston North, while Cockram Motor Limited’s Nelson operation will open at 106 Rutherford Street.