Dongfeng taps Armstrong’s to launch affordable EVs in NZ

Chinese auto giant Dongfeng Motor is entering the New Zealand market, appointing Armstrong’s Distribution Limited as exclusive distributor.

The local distribution is promising to “remove barriers” to zero and low-emission vehicle ownership with three fully electric models due from the fourth quarter of 2025.

“We are honoured to partner with Armstrong’s to bring Dongfeng products to New Zealand,” says Zhu Xun, general manager of Southeast Asia passenger vehicle sales and marketing, Dongfeng Motor.

“As one of the largest automotive groups in New Zealand, Armstrong’s was a natural choice for us and we look forward to long and successful co-operation. New Zealand is a very important market for us as we expand to more right-hand drive overseas markets.”

Armstrong’s founder and executive director Rick Armstrong his team was “incredibly excited” to bring Dongfeng to New Zealand.

“These vehicles combine world-class engineering with cutting-edge technology, all at a price point that makes premium quality more accessible than ever.

“We’re all about removing barriers and delivering vehicles which are a dream to drive.”

The initial line-up will comprise three battery-electric models — Box, Vigo and 007 — pitched as affordable options covering city runabouts to higher-performance variants. Retail stores will open first in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch this year, with additional sites to follow.

Dongfeng says it aims to broaden access to “innovative, affordable” vehicles as part of a global push on new-energy models. The company, one of China’s “Big Four” automakers, operates 42 factories worldwide (many with international joint-venture partners), sells in more than 100 countries, and recorded 2024 global sales above 2.5 million vehicles, according to the announcement. It plans to invest US$14 billion in research and development over the next three years.

Armstrong’s Distribution Limited chief executive Simon Rutherford says the goal is to “challenge and then exceed expectations”.

“We’re confident Dongfeng offers qualities and attributes that motorists demand. It’s a future focused and progressive marque which fulfils what Kiwis have been dreaming about driving – a range of attractive, attainable vehicles designed to revolutionise the way New Zealanders interact with and experience next-generation mobility.”

Further details on model specifications, safety features and aftersales support will be released in the coming weeks, the companies say.