Tesla tight lipped on NZ dealer details despite Musk announcements

Tesla boss Elon Musk has announced New Zealand is one of the countries that can reserve the new Model 3 online – following its unveiling this afternoon.

He has also indicated the NZ can order the full Tesla range and will get a network of Superchargers.

But for now the company is refusing to comment on when we will be getting a dealership or service facility – although there has been a very slight change of tone compared to previous Tesla comments regarding NZ.

Musk tweeted New Zealand was one of a number of countries now able to put down a deposit on the car.

Adding several more countries to Model 3 order page tonight. Check for details, but will include India, Brazil, SA, SK, NZ, Sing & Ireland.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 31, 2016

The car will be unveiled on the Tesla website around 4.30pm today NZ time. It is unclear what deposit will be required, but in Australia it is AUD$1500.

In further responses to tweets musk indicated the whole model range would be available, and we will also see Superchargers.

@lukealization yes, will cover whole country

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 31, 2016

@roddrury X and S will also be available

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 31, 2016

In questions from EVtalk.co.nz today Heath Walker, Tesla’s Melbourne based spokesperson refused to elaborate on if New Zealand would get a Tesla dealership. Currently Teslas in need of service need to be shipped offshore.

“It will be online orders for NZ only at the moment,” Walker says. “The strategy for NZ will be developed and communicated in time.”

That answer could, however, be seen as a significant step forward.

In October 2014, Walker gave our sister publication a firm no on New Zealand dealer plans.

“There are no plans for Tesla to either sell any models online or open any stores in NZ,” Walker said.