Dongfeng Motor to help remove barriers to zero and low emission vehicle ownership for Kiwis
A bold new player has entered New Zealand’s automotive landscape promising to challenge convention and leverage its global scale and technologies to help Kiwis into advanced zero and low emissions vehicles at a more affordable price.
Dongfeng has appointed Armstrong’s as their exclusive distributor for New Zealand, under Armstrong’s Distribution Limited.
“We are honoured to partner with Armstrong’s to bring Dongfeng products to New Zealand,” said Zhu Xun, Southeast Asia Region of Passenger Vehicle Sales and Marketing Department, DFMIEC.
“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, said “We’re 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.”
Dongfeng Motor aims to break barriers to enable a larger number of New Zealanders to adopt sustainable motoring by improving access to innovative, affordable vehicles.
While new to New Zealand, Dongfeng Motor is one of the ‘Big Four’ Chinese automakers with 42 factories around the world – many of which are joint ventures with International OEM brands – and global sales in 2024 in excess of 2.5-million vehicles throughout more than 100 countries.
Established 56-years ago, the marque prides itself on advancements in technology and innovation and will invest more than USD$14-billion in research and development within the next three years. The company has a focus on new energy vehicles which will form a cornerstone of brand expansion.
With a strong global track record, the brand’s models have been praised internationally for their innovative styling, intelligent features and outstanding value. Set to launch in Q4 2025, Dongfeng will redefine what Kiwi drivers can expect from a new vehicle.
The initial line-up will include a range of three affordable EVs, consisting of Box, Vigo and 007. The new models are tailored to meet the diverse needs of Kiwi drivers, combining urban versatility, everyday practicality and strong performance, with driving ranges that fit your lifestyle whether you are in the city or on the open road.
With advanced safety systems, strong aftersales support and a commitment to customer care, Dongfeng will strive to build long-term trust with New Zealanders.
“Our goal is to challenge and then exceed expectations,” said Simon Rutherford, CEO, Armstrong’s Distribution Limited.
“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.”
More information about Dongfeng and the new model portfolio will be released in coming weeks.
The first three retail stores will be located in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch with additional stores to be added throughout the country.
To stay informed, please register your interest here.