Chinese premium brand Arcfox to launch in NZ

The first model from Arcfox coming to NZ is the T1 electric crossover Photos: Arcfox

The New Zealand automotive industry is about to welcome a new car brand, so let's say Kia ora to Arcfox.

The Chinese brand is the premium EV arm of BAIC, one of China’s largest and most established automakers, and Arcfox is set to make its debut in New Zealand later next month.

Arcfox’s introduction follows the recent introduction of parent brand BAIC into New Zealand and complements the BAIC-branded vehicles with a BEV-focused offering.    

“Arcfox, as BAIC’s premium, technology-driven EV brand and we know it will have distinctive appeal for our customers, offering stylish exterior designs alongside comfortable and spacious interiors and advanced operating systems that deliver a premium experience in the heart of the electric vehicle market” said Simon Rutherford, CEO Auto Distribution Holdings Limited.

The Arcfox T1has a limited-time launch price of $34,990.

“We are working very closely with Arcfox to expedite launch stock to New Zealand so we can do our part to help Kiwis manage through this unprecedented period of petrol pump pain, whilst reducing the amount of tailpipe emissions from the country’s new vehicle fleet.”

The first of the brand’s new arrivals is the Arcfox T1, a small to mid-size crossover SUV-style vehicle with an urban focus and equipped with a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery capable of more than 300km (WLTP).  It offers features and attributes usually expected of a much more expensive car and will also be introduced with a special launch offer.

“The Arcfox T1 could be considered as a Crossover, sitting in the sweet spot between car and SUV, complemented by a raised ride height.  The package is considered and thoughtful, delivering space and comfort for all occupants,” said Shiguang Guo, General Manager for Arcfox New Zealand.

The Arcfox T1 is capable of more than 300km (WLTP).

“It also represents a strong value proposition, with a limited-time launch price of $34,990 which is $2,000 below the recommended retail price.

“Dealers are able to take orders now, meaning there’s every possibility the first boatload of arrivals into the country will be sold out given the interest in full EV models, so there is urgency to secure your new car today if you want to make the switch to electric.”

The Arcfox T1 is equipped with a strong suite of safety features, including Front, side and curtain airbags, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Front Collision Warning (FCW), Pedestrian Collision Warning (PCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW), amongst others.

The Arcfox T1 comes with a six-year/ 200,000km warranty.