Arcfox enters NZ market with affordable T1 electric crossover

Chinese premium electric vehicle brand Arcfox has entered the New Zealand market with the launch of the T1 compact crossover.

Priced from $34,990 plus on-road costs as part of an introductory offer. The regular retail price is $36,990 plus on-road costs.

Arcfox was established by the BAIC Group in 2017 as its premium EV brand and is making its New Zealand debut with the T1, with additional models expected to follow in the coming months.

Auto Distribution Holdings chief executive Simon Rutherford says the T1 has been developed to make electric vehicle ownership more accessible without compromising on equipment or refinement.

“Kiwis have shifted to recognising that EV’s are the right direction for the future and Arcfox is a future-focused brand which can help them on this journey,” says Rutherford.

“The marque is modern, refined and stylish, with products designed to fit seamlessly into today’s lifestyle. The Arcfox T1 delivers great looks, an excellent driving experience and provides escape and relaxation in a refined environment.”

Rutherford describes the T1 as a crossover that combines the driving dynamics of a passenger car with the practicality of an SUV.

“With its space and technology, the T1 has widespread appeal, from urbanites to modern families and empty nesters. It will also find favour with the environmentally conscious and will be a good option as a company fleet vehicle.”

The T1 comes equipped with a three-pin home charger, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability and DC fast charging, with the battery able to charge from 30% to 80% in 25 minutes using suitable charging infrastructure.

The model also features a five-star Vehicle Safety Risk Rating and comes standard with six airbags, Electronic Stability Programme, Electronic Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution. Driver assistance features include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, traffic congestion assistance, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system and automatic parking.

Inside, the T1 features a 15.6-inch infotainment display, digital instrument cluster, panoramic glass roof, Apple CarPlay, voice control and a 66W wired phone charger. The vehicle also has a 2770mm wheelbase, which Arcfox says contributes to rear passenger space and ride comfort.

BAIC and Arcfox New Zealand general manager Shiguang Guo says the T1 offers buyers a premium EV at a more accessible price point.

“The Arcfox T1 represents a significant step forward for affordable electric mobility in New Zealand, and proves customers no longer need to choose between premium quality and affordability,” says Guo.

“This new vehicle delivers sophisticated design, impressive technology and a high level of standard equipment at a price that opens electric vehicle ownership to even more Kiwis.”

The T1 is backed by a six-year/200,000km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/200,000km battery warranty. Customer deliveries are scheduled to begin this month, with Arcfox confirming additional models will join the New Zealand range over the coming months.