EV QUEST

EV Market: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/ev-boom-accelerates-with-second-week-of-record-sales/premium/KECLWAZJHRBEBOVY2ATN5DVB2I/EVDB: https://evdb.nz/

In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian Maidment and Riz Akhtar (Carloop) dive into the latest EV news from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. Riz shares his news of the Chinese EV market, including BYD's new fast charging. Plus - new large Tesla.Carloop - https://carloop.com.au/

I’m in Taiwan to take a closer look at the Foxtron Bria, a subcompact electric SUV crossover that could potentially make its way to New Zealand and Australia under a different badge.There’s strong speculation this vehicle could appear in our market as a Mitsubishi EV. If that happens, it could become a serious new competitor in the growing small-to-medium electric SUV segment.A big thanks to the team at Foxtron in Taichung, Taiwan for letting me film and drive the Bria.

In this episode of the EV Quest podcast, host Adrian Maidment sits down with Monica Chiu, from MSI, to talk about the EZgo Portable EV Charger launch into the Australian market.Find out more about EZgo: https://au.msi.com/Landing/ezgoThe episode covers:Who MSI is and why the company entered the EV charging spaceWhat the EZgo Portable Charger is and how it worksHow it differs from fixed home chargersVehicle compatibility and real-world use casesBuilt-in safety features and charging best practicesWhat’s happening in the wider EV charging marketWhere to buy the EZgo charger and what support MSI provides🔔 Enjoyed this episode? Make sure you follow and subscribe to EV Quest for more expert interviews, EV news, real-world reviews, and practical advice on electric vehicles and charging, from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.New episodes drop regularly, so hit follow to stay up to date.

Adrian Maidment is joined by Riz Akhtar from Carloop, talking EVs.Data link: https://evdb.nz/sales

The EV Quest Podcast Christmas Edition is here and we are wrapping up 2025 in style. In this end of year special, Adrian Maidment is joined by Riz Akhtar from Carloop for the awards ceremonyWe look back at the key trends that defined 2025 including an explosion of new models, falling prices, the rise of plug in hybrids. We then move into the main event, the highly prestigious EV Quest EV of the Year Awards.Categories include: ⭐️Biggest Buzz of the YearBest Value EV of the YearLarge Electric SUV of the YearBest EV Not Available in NZ or AustraliaHybrid / PHEV of the YearIndustry Player of the YearWhat’s Riz Been Driving – EV of the Year (Overall Winner)A special thanks to everyone who has supported the channel in 2025.

Everyone likes a little luxury, and MG’s parent company SAIC is aiming high with the IM6, their new premium electric SUV for New Zealand.In this EV Quest review, Adrian Maidment takes the IM6 for a real-world drive to see whether this tech-packed Chinese EV truly delivers. This review is based on the IM6 Platinum, the mid-spec model with a 100kWh battery and 800V architecture.farmer mgThanks to Farmer MG for the loan of the IM6 - https://farmermg.co.nz/🔔 Subscribe to EV Quest for NZ-focused EV reviews, news, and honest insights.

In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian sits down with a New Zealand solar broker Rowan Ellis from Equity Solar Brokers to unpack the process of going solar. We look at how brokers compare quotes, what homeowners should ask before committing, and potential mistakes people could make when purchasing solar and batteries.Whether you're considering solar for the first time or want to understand if it’s really worth the investment, this episode gives you a clear perspective from someone who is in the industry.Website: https://www.equitysolar.co.nzCalculator: https://www.equitysolar.co.nz/calculator#solar #renewableenergy #solarbroker

Adrian Maidment Riz Akhtar (Carloop) unpack the latest EV developments across New Zealand and Australia. Riz shares insights from his recent trip to China, a major source of new right-hand-drive EVs bound for NZ and Australia. Adrian breaks down New Zealand’s November EV sales data, including the continued dominance of the Tesla Model Y. If you’re curious about where EVs are heading in 2026, how pricing is shifting, and what new models are worth watching, this episode is packed with insights for EV fans and everyday drivers alike.EVDB data: https://evdb.nz/ev-stats

In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian sits down with Andre Kavanaugh from Harrisons Solar to unpack what Kiwis need to know about home solar power. ⚡️We break down:Why more New Zealanders are choosing solarHow solar systems actually workNZ pricing: small, medium, and large systemsPayback times and common misconceptionsEV ownership with solarThe future: battery tech, vehicle-to-grid, and low-interest green loansIf you're considering solar or wondering how solar can reduce your power bill and charge your EV at home, this episode gives you clear, practical answers from a real expert. Contact Andre: https://www.harrisonssolar.co.nz/owner/solar-coromandel-bay-of-plenty #EVQuest #SolarNZ #NewZealandSolar

Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest podcast – I’m Adrian Maidment. This episode is all about electrifying everything with guest Mike Casey, CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa, and a fully electric cherry orchardist from Central Otago.This episode explores how New Zealand can save billions by electrifying everyday machines, from hot water cylinders and cooktops to cars and farm equipment. Mike shares the six smart decisions every Kiwi should make over the next 15 years.Website: https://www.rewiring.nz/Events: https://www.rewiring.nz/tour

On Tuesday, 11 November, Dongfeng launched in New Zealand at an event in Auckland. In this interview, Adrian Maidment talks with Arek Zywot, the General Manager of Dongfeng New Zealand.They discuss the Dongfeng brand, the company’s plans for the New Zealand car market, and the new models announced.Now available to buy is the Dongfeng BOX model, priced from $29,990 + ORC.Dongfeng website: https://dongfeng.co.nz/To buy: https://www.armstrongs.co.nz/our-brands/dongfeng/

Adrian Maidment chats with Paul O’Connor from EV Power, who shares insights on the latest innovations in home EV charging, including their new NZ-designed portable charger. We talk affordability, the government’s impact on EV uptake, and how to when you buy from EV Power.$ PROMO CODE: "Freelunch" $EV Power 👉 https://evpower.co.nz/

Kia ora and welcome back to the EV Quest podcast. After a short recharge break, Adrian and Riz (Carloop) return with one of the biggest stories of the year: BYD’s jaw-dropping pricing announcement for the Atto 1 and Atto 2 in New Zealand, and what it could mean for Australian pricing. 🚖Also: News from the Japan desk, EV Shows in Australia, Sales data from October, and its beginning to feel like Christmas. 🎙️

Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest podcast, I’m Adrian Maidment. Self Driving is a big topic in New Zealand at the moment with the release of Tesla Full Self Driving (Supervised). But this episode I’m getting some user feedback on another self-driving option, my guest is Aiden Dean, who is just back from the States, and experienced the Waymo experience.

This week on the EV Quest podcast with Adrian Maidment and Riz Akhtar (Carloop):MG IM5 driven by Riz New MG4Nissan's ProPilot Technology Sydney International EV Motor Show Ticket deal!Looking Ahead: Future Test Drives and Models*** Riz's special ticket offer for the Sydney International EV Motor Show ***Buy one ticket, Get one ticket free: https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/sydney-international-ev-motor-show-tickets/artist/3550594?did=bogo2

In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian Maidment and Riz Akhtar dive into the latest EV news from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. Riz shares his first-hand experience with the brand-new Zeekr 7X SUV. We also cover:NZ pricing confirmed for the Zeekr 7X lineupThe arrival of BYD’s Atto 1 and why it’s set to be another global best-sellerLeapmotor B10 – a new mid-size EV SUV hitting NZ soonTesla’s new monthly subscription pricing for Full Self-Driving in NZ & AustraliaAustralia’s bold new 2035 emissions reduction targets and what they mean for Oceania’s EV adoptionOur picks for the Top 5 mid-size EV SUVs worth considering right nowA run-down of the upcoming EV shows and industry events across Australia

Kia ora and welcome to EV Quest podcast. In this episode, Adrian and Riz dive into the latest EV developments across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.XPeng confirms New Zealand launch (updated G6 SUV first)Heavy EVs remain exempt from NZ road user charges until 2027Australia announces new heavy vehicle charging hubRiz tests Tesla’s Full Self Driving – unsupervised modeTop 5 Japanese EVs available in NZ right now - kind of👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and share EV Quest to help us grow.

A week day episode of EV Quest - with Adrian and Riz.

In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment (Tauranga, NZ) and Riz Akhtar (Melbourne, AU) dive into the latest EV news from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. We unpack NZ’s EV sales slump, while Australia surges ahead. There's pricing on the Model Y Performance from Berlin and Elon Musk’s jaw-dropping $1 trillion pay package. Plus, we look at BMW’s bold new “Neue Klasse” platform, and Riz’s hands-on impressions of the Audi SQ6 e-tron, Nissan Ariya, and a quirky Chinese multi-truck.

Adrian and Riz discuss the latest developments in electric vehicles, focusing on Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) (Almost). There's the release of the Model Y performance and BYD's Atto 3 charging compatibility. Also, Riz tests out the Audi Q4 e-tron.#podcast #evquest #evnewsMentioned:BYD Atto 3: https://zecar.com/reviews/byd-australia-confirms-charging-harness-fix-for-atto-3-tesla-supercharger-compatibility-issues

In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment (Tauranga, NZ) and Riz Akhtar (Melbourne, AU) unpack a big week for the EV world, especially in New Zealand.🚗 Geely’s Supergroup in NZ – Polestar, Volvo, Lotus, Zeekr and more unite under the new “Nord East” brand🛻 Geely Radar RD6 Pro – a fully electric ute lands in NZ, taking on the BYD Shark and GWM Cannon Alpha 🔄 Tesla Stalk Comeback – The turn-signal stalk returns to the Model 3 in China (and could hit NZ/AU soon).🚙 Tesla Model YL – a new family-friendly variant causing waves in China, with global potential.🌐 Premium MG brand (IM6 SUV) – launching in NZ👉 Don’t forget to follow and like EV Quest for weekly EV news, reviews, and insights!

In this episode of the EV Quest podcast, Adrian and Riz discuss the latest developments in the electric vehicle market, including the impressive pre-orders for the Zeekr 7X, government taxation on EVs, and the new electric tanker for Fonterra. They also touch on Ford's plans for affordable EVs and the competitive landscape of the EV market in Australia and New Zealand.

Buying a family car is a big decision, and not just about price or style. In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment talks with automotive journalist and content creator Jade Credentino, founder of Baby in a Car and Drive in Oz.Jade shares: 🚗 The top mistakes families make when choosing a car 👶 The hidden traps in 7-seaters and car seat setups ⚡ EV vs petrol: which works better for family life 💡 How to future-proof your car purchase for growing kidsWhether you’re in Australia, New Zealand, or anywhere else, this conversation will give you practical tips, insider knowledge, and the confidence to choose the perfect vehicle for your family.LINKS MENTIONED:Baby and Car: https://www.babyandcar.com.au/

This week on EV Quest, Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne break down the latest EV news across New Zealand and Australia. We cover:BYD Sealion 7 outselling Tesla Model Y in AustraliaNew Zealand EV sales drop from 12.4% to 7.2% market shareZeekr 7X launch with surprisingly low pricingGovernment plans for nationwide road user chargesTesla Full Self-Driving tests on Auckland’s busy streets

In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment checks in with Riz Akhtar (Carloop) fresh from his recent trip to China. Riz shares insights from visiting charging giant Sinexcel and spotting next-gen EVs from Nio and Xpeng. Adrian covers the rise of New Zealand’s electric two-wheeler industry with updates from Velduro, FTN Motion, and the rescued UBCO brand. The duo also dive into MG’s new luxury line "IM," Xpeng’s big push into Australia, Tesla’s upcoming affordable Model Y, and the new Cupra Tavascan.

Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast - brining you EV news from from Aotearoa, Australia, and around the world. With your hosts - Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne. 🎙️This episode includes: 👉 Solar Power Growth in Europe BYD's Growth in Australia Kia EV4 Launch Details Review of Smart #3 Battery Health and Warranties

In this episode of the EV Quest podcast, Adrian Maidment and Riz Akhtar (from Carloop in Melbourne) go for a big-picture discussion on the current state and future of electric vehicles in Australia.They dive into two key questions:What are the top 3 barriers to EV growth in Australia over the next 1–2 years?What are the top 3 factors that could accelerate EV adoption in the same timeframe?The discussion includes - charging infrastructure, fleet adoption and workplace charging, to new model availability, affordability, and government incentives.In other news: new MGS5 in NZ, the Hyundai IONIQ 6N, and Model Y offers in New Zealand and Australia.

Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast - brining you EV news from from Aotearoa, Australia, and around the world.With your hosts - Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne. This episode includes: 🔹 EV Sales surge in NZ and OZ 🔹 Melbourne EV Show

In this EV Quest podcast interview, Adrian Maidment talks with Mark Lampard at the Melbourne EV Show.Mark shares insights on the current state and future of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, highlighting his recent experiences in China and Europe. Mark also shares his knowledge on the evolving technology and infrastructure needed to support the transition to electric vehicles, as well as exciting developments on the horizon for his company, go EV. 👉 Find out more: https://go-ev.com.au/

Here's my second podcast from the Melbourne EV Show. In this episode, I'm having a chat at the stands of: EV Towing Australia, Zeekr, Farizon & Paywise. A big thanks to everyone who talked to me (I'm Adrian Maidmdent 🎙️.First up for this EV Quest Podcast, I catch up with Riz Akhtar at the show to chat about what stood out. A big thanks to Future Drive AutoShows for organising the Melbourne EV Show. 🔗 futuredriveauto.au(3:43) EV Towing AustraliaAdrian then speaks with Nick from EV Towing Australia. They discuss the installation process for tow bars on electric vehicles, the importance of preserving factory warranties, and the towing capabilities of various EV models - with a particular focus on the EV5. Nick also explains how aerodynamics play a crucial role in towing efficiency. 🔗 To find out more, visit: www.evts.com.au(9:45) ZeekrNext, Adrian chats with Elfleada from Zeekr, a brand that has recently launched in Australia. The conversation explores Zeekr’s current lineup, including the Zeekr 009 - an electric luxury MPV - and the Zeekr X, an urban crossover SUV. They discuss features such as seating configurations, in-car entertainment systems, and battery range. 🔗 Learn more at: zeekrlife.com/en-au(13:51) FarizonIn another interview, Jon from Farizon shares insights into the newly launched range of fully electric light trucks and vans. Adrian and Jon talk about how these vehicles are designed to support the growing demand for clean and efficient commercial transport options in Australia. 🔗 Discover more at: farizonauto.au(16:49)PaywiseFinally, Sam from Paywise provides a helpful overview of how novated leasing works, with a focus on the advantages for electric vehicle owners. Paywise supports both public and private organisations across Australia, offering salary packaging solutions to private enterprises, not-for-profits, charities, and the health sector. 🔗 More information can be found at: paywise.com.au

There was a lot to see and do at the Melbourne EV Show, and plenty of people to talk to! Here are three interviews Adrian recorded at the event. A big thanks to Martin, Mark, and Paul for taking the time to chat. Find out more about Aurora (Solar Car Technology), the Tesla Owners Club of Australia, and the Australian Electric Vehicle Association. A big thanks to Future Drive AutoShows for organising the Melbourne EV Show. - https://www.futuredriveauto.au/(00:10) Learn about solar car technology, particularly focusing on the Aurora vehicle and its participation in the World Solar Challenge. Adrian talks with Martin from Aurora. Martin highlights the evolution of solar panels, battery technology, and the importance of aerodynamics in solar car design. Marin shares insights into the challenges of driving solar cars, the skills required for development, and the significance of engaging in STEM education. Find out more - https://www.aurorasolarcar.com/(07:33) Mark from the Tesla Owners Club of Australia discusses the benefits and activities of the Tesla Owners Club of Australia, including exclusive offers, social events, and common questions from potential Tesla owners. He also shares key tips for electric vehicle owners regarding charging practices and safety. Find out more - https://www.teslaowners.org.au/(12.34) Find out key facts about owning and EV. Adrian talks with Paul from the Australian Electric Vehicle Association. This chat explores the world of electric vehicles (EVs), addressing common misconceptions, the benefits of owning an EV, and the environmental impact of transitioning to electric mobility.. Find out more - https://www.aeva.asn.au/

In this week’s EV Quest Podcast, we’re gearing up for the Melbourne EV Show, happening 27–29 June at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. The event will feature EV brands, test drive experiences, talks from industry experts, and hands-on exhibits.Riz from Carloop is a Brand Ambassador and MC for the event, and Adrian will also be attending.Vehicle brands on display include: Polestar, Zeekr, Kia, Mercedes, Mazda, VW, XPeng, Audi, Smart, Leapmotor – plus a host of other exhibitors.🔗 The event is organised by 'Future Drive Australia'.Find out more about the Melbourne EV Show: https://www.futuredriveauto.au/melb/ev25Also in this episode: ✅ Deals of the Week 🌱 A look at the all-new Nissan Leaf

Included in this episode of the EV Quest Podcast- new models from BYD heading to Oz and NZ, highlights from the recent Fieldays event, Deals of the Week, Melbourne EV event and Riz on TV. Channel 7 link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lf8g4p7QR_oMelbourne International EV AutoShow - https://www.futuredriveauto.au/melb/ev25

Test driving the 2025 Kia EV3 Long Range Light, recently crowned World (I forgot to say 'World') Car of the Year by World (I forgot to say 'World' twice) Car of The Year. In this quick but detailed test drive, I cover:✅ Exterior design ✅ Interior space and tech ✅ Driving feel & regen paddles✅ Range✅ Pricing✅ Final thoughts on whether it lives up to the hypeThanks to Ebbett Kia Rotorua for providing the vehicle.https://www.ebbett.co.nz/dealership/ebbett-rotorua

Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast - brining you EV news from from Aotearoa, Australia, and around the world.With your hosts - Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne. This episode includes: 🔹 Test drive in NZ and OZ of Kia EV3 🔹 Fieldays 🔹 Melbourne EV ShowLink: Kia Rotorua: https://www.ebbett.co.nz/brand/kia

Adrian Maidment (Tauranga, NZ) and Riz Akhtar (Melbourne, AU) reunite for another high-voltage episode of the EV Quest podcast!Riz shares exclusive insights from his recent trip to China, diving deep into the scale and scope of BYD's electric ecosystem—from cars to buses, and SkyRail. Plus, they unpack major changes in BYD's distribution in Australia.Also in this episode:⭐ New Tesla Model 3 earns highest-ever ANCAP safety scores🇯🇵 First impressions of the Honda e:N1 in New ZealandDon’t miss the debut of their new segment: Deals of the Week on EVs!

If you’re considering a new Tesla Model Y, don’t decide just yet. In this EV Quest episode, I take the BYD Sealion 7 Premium for a test drive in Tauranga, New Zealand.In this review, I explore everything from the exterior styling and premium interior to its technology, and whether the Premium RWD model offers enough — or if you need to go all-in on the AWD Performance version.#byd #bydsealion7 #review Features include:✅ 15.6” rotating touchscreen✅ Dynaudio 12-speaker sound system✅ V2L, HUD, 360° camera, OTA updates, NFC key, and more.Not included in the video, but colours options are (with price): Aurora White $0, Cosmos Black, Shark Grey, Atlantis Grey - $990. All interiors are black.

"We won a gold award out of 600 entries."Join Adrian Maidment on the EV Quest Podcast as he chats with Dan Wallace, co-founder of Velduro. Fresh off their gold award win at the 33rd China International Bicycle Fair held in Shanghai , Dan shares the story behind Velduro’s cutting-edge designs, the game-changing DJI Avanox motor system, and future plans for Velduro.Plus, Dan shares an "EV QUEST Exclusive" on the rules of speed.Find out more on Velduro: https://www.velduro.com/

In this episode, I hit the roads of Taichung, Taiwan (with help from Kerry from Luxgen) for a test drive of the Luxgen N7, a feature-packed electric SUV. It's my first drive of a car on the right hand side of the road!The Luxgen N7 is by Foxtron—a joint venture between Luxgen’s parent company Yulon and Foxconn, the tech giant behind the iPhone.n7 Features Reviewed include:12.3" digital instrument panel & 15.6" touchscreenWireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto360° camera, lane keeping assist, parking sensorsOne-pedal driving, digital rearview mirrorLuxgen n7 website: https://www.luxgen-motor.com.tw/n7

Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast - brining you EV news from from Aotearoa, Australia, and around the world.With your hosts - Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne. This episode includes: 🔹 Tesla Model Y variations. Which is best? 🔹 Global EV sales 🔹 Z Energy sells Flick to Meridian 🔹 Tesla’s self-driving tech in Melbourne 🔹 New affordable EV impresses Riz.Mentioned: Hook Turn: https://thedriven.io/2025/05/17/tesla-self-driving-fsd-software-used-in-australia-for-first-time-does-hook-turn-in-melbourne/Global Sales: https://thedriven.io/2025/05/15/global-ev-sales-to-hit-20-million-in-2025-as-prices-hit-parity-in-key-markets/

Adrian and Riz dive into EV news from China to Tauranga: Riz shares takeaways from the Shanghai Auto Show, Adrian drives the Luxgen N7 in Taiwan, thoughts on the new Tesla Model Y, and an electric truck fire in Tauranga The "Japan EV Desk" includes news on the updated Subaru Solterra. NZ/AU sales data, and more!

A quick review of the Melbourne Motor Show and upcoming EV Related Events.Find out more about Riz at Carloop.

Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast, your source for electric vehicle news from Australia, New Zealand, and around the globe.In this episode, recorded on April 5, 2025, host Adrian Maidment in Tauranga, New Zealand, talks with Riz Akhtar, reporting live from the Melbourne Motor Show at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.Links:NZ EV Sales data: https://evdb.nz/most-popular-evs-nz

G’day and welcome to the “EV Quest Podcast”. Bringing you EV news from Australia, New Zealand, and from the rest of the world . Adrian Maidment in Tauranga, New Zealand. And in Melbourne, Australia - Riz Akhtar from Carloop.This episode:March EV sales in NZ. Tips for buying a new EV. Upcoming eventsWe are also on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EVQuest