Having generated plenty of interest here late last year, JAC Motors New Zealand recently marked a significant milestone by officially introducing the renowned JAC truck brand into the New Zealand market with two dealership launches – confirming that JAC Motors’ range of light-duty trucks will be fully supported by dedicated dealerships in Auckland (Southern Autos Manukau) and Christchurch (Avon City), complemented by a national fleet team.
With its beginnings dating back to 1964 and fortified by successful commercial partnerships, including the Volkswagen group, JAC Motors has emerged as one of China’s leading commercial vehicle brands, and the brand’s innovative passenger and commercial vehicles have garnered popularity across more than 100 countries worldwide.
Closer to home, JAC Motors has diligently worked behind the scenes to tailor its vehicles to the specific needs of New Zealand businesses. Meticulous testing has been conducted on New Zealand roads, covering thousands of kilometres in electric vehicles (EV) designed for city driving and last mile delivery. Remarkably, these EVs have easily achieved over 200km on a single charge while fully loaded.
Andrew Craw, the General Manager of JAC Motors New Zealand, emphasised the brand’s departure from the conventional truck sales approach. By offering a more traditional dealership experience, JAC Motors provides Kiwis with comprehensive support, catering to the needs of smaller businesses that may require only one or two trucks. Additionally, as the transition to EV trucks gains momentum, JAC Motors’ teams are readily equipped to assist businesses with their specific requirements. The brand prides itself on boasting a nationwide network of JAC Service Centres, with 13 locations currently operational and plans for expansion.
The dealership launches (complete with a longwu – dragon dance) served as an auspicious occasion to celebrate the partnership between local New Zealand teams and the esteemed Chinese brand. JAC Motors executives, including Mr. Xiang Xingchu, the Global Chairman, graced the event with their presence, underscoring the brand’s commitment to New Zealand and its partnership with locally owned distributors, supported by the reputable Colonial Motor Company and its century-long automotive history in the country.
The range of JAC vehicles available in New Zealand comprises three models of 100 percent Electric Trucks and two models of Cummins Diesel Trucks. These trucks offer various wheelbase and Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) options ranging from 6.0T to 9.0T, providing multiple configurations to cater to diverse business requirements.
Furthermore, the official launch of the JAC brand confirmed the electric truck specifications, highlighting the impressive 107kWh EV battery that enables a loaded EV truck to cover over 200km on a single charge.
Key specifications of the EV JAC Truck include: CATL EV 107kWh Battery: Lithium-iron Phosphate. Over 200km Fully Loaded EV Range tested around New Zealand-city roads.
Three modes of Electric Range Regeneration. Fast Charge in 48 minutes, SOC from 20 percent to 80 percent. Two EV Drivetrain options offering 130kw/1200Nm, and 171kw/1050Nm with a two-stage gearbox for improved incline driving.
Eight inch Touchscreen with Reverse Camera and Infotainment System. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including Lane Departure Warning System and Autonomous Emergency Braking ePTO (electric power take off) allows for a wide range of uses and bodies for the trucks.
Three (3365mm, 3845mm, 4475mm) EV Wheelbase options. Electric Park Brake and Easy Gear Selector. Five-year / 200,000km EV & Truck Warranty.
