According to a recent Ford survey, over 60 per cent of Kiwis are considering an electrified vehicle in the next five years (*see note below).
Ford spoke with Kiwi drivers and those wanting to buy a new car to understand how they viewed EVs.
“We know from the research and also from talking directly to customers and dealers that many Kiwis are considering an electrified vehicle but are holding back for a variety of reasons,” said Annaliese Atina, Ford New Zealand Managing Director.
“A lot of that hesitation can be overcome if people experience firsthand the benefits of an EV. We know from customers’ experiences in New Zealand and around the world, once you’re in it and drive the Mach-E, you’ll be pleasantly surprised just how good and stress-free the EV life is.”
To help undecided customers, Ford New Zealand is offering key customers extended test drives in the Mustang Mach-E. Customers who are thinking of making the switch should talk to their local participating Ford dealer to book a test drive.
• Most respondents are more likely to support businesses using EVs. Going electric can not only improve customer relations but also reduce their emissions and overall fuel costs.
• Kiwi Drivers are familiar with electrified vehicles, most classifying them as being ‘fun to drive’, ‘cool’, ‘sporty’ and even ‘easy to own’. Almost half said they’d been for a ride in an electric vehicle. Just over one-quarter claimed to have driven one.
• Kiwis would rather choose an EV for ride sharing and their daily commute.
• Not having to buy fuel was rated as a top benefit of owning an electric vehicle. However, many believe maintenance costs for electrified vehicles are higher overall.
• The most desirable electrified vehicles are hybrid vehicles, followed by electrics vehicles and then plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
• More than half of the respondents said they would be ‘more likely’ to date someone who drove an electric vehicle.
• Most respondents were only aware of a ‘few’ charging stations within 20km of their home. Many said that supermarkets and shopping centres would be best locations for public chargers or service stations.
• Nearly half of respondents believe charging an EV at home is as expensive as refuelling an ICE vehicle. Studies have shown that EV charging costs are the equivalent of petrol costing around 40c/litre.
• Almost half surveyed said they would be ‘more likely’ to purchase a BEV with ‘greater’ towing capacity. Nearly one-third wanted off-road capability. There are still concerns that an EV can’t carry as much luggage/payload as an ICE power vehicle.
“This research tells us people are keen to make the switch from pump to plug, but in some cases a lack of products offering towing, load carrying, and off-road capability are still holding them back,” said Atina.
It is one reason Ford New Zealand is adding the Ranger PHEV to its line-up in 2025.
Pairing a 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine with an electric motor and rechargeable battery system, the Ranger PHEV boasts all the features Kiwis expect from the Ranger, with significantly reduced emissions, improved fuel economy and Pro Power V2L Onboard.
“We are looking forward to introducing the Ranger PHEV in 2025, which will deliver all the benefits of Ranger, including towing, off-road capability, load carrying, and much more.”
* This survey was conducted in May 2024 covering 1470 people across Australia, Saudi Arabia, Philippines, New Zealand, South Africa, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and United Arab Emirates.
