It’s prompted backlash from those including trade and agriculture workers who rely on dirtier models, particularly utes.
Questioned on The AM Show on Monday whether this was a “tradie tax”, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern admitted there weren’t enough electric utes to meet demand.
“We absolutely acknowledge, with utes at the moment, the market is not meeting the needs there,” she told host Duncan Garner.
“This doesn’t affect any vehicles that are currently in the New Zealand market, it’s only those that are being newly imported – so the second-hand market isn’t affected.
“The second point I’d make is that within the next – we’re hoping the next 12 to 24 months – the likes of Toyota are talking about bringing in EV utes. My hope is then people might delay their purchase in order to start building the market.”
In confirming an electric version of its famous Hilux won’t be brought into New Zealand in the next 24 months, Toyota said it’s “irresponsible” to suggest customers should immediately stop buying non-electric vehicles.
“The range and volumes of EV’s needed to meet demand are simply not available, and many customers still need a vehicle to transport their family or operate their business,” said Toyota New Zealand chief executive Neeraj Lala.
“Battery electric technology is coming but is not quite there yet.”