Arcfox heralds first NZ model
Arcfox is making its debut in New Zealand this month with the arrival of its T1, a premium compact electric crossover.
The brand says the T1, which has a launch price of $34,990 plus on-road costs, has been developed for consumers seeking an affordable EV without compromising on comfort, quality or equipment.
The model introduces New Zealanders to Arcfox, which was established by China’s BAIC Group in 2017 as its dedicated premium EV marque.
Auto Distribution Holdings Limited (ADHL), part of Armstrong Motor Group and the New Zealand distributor for BAIC models, says Arcfox is “modern, refined and stylish, with products designed to fit seamlessly into today’s lifestyle”.
Simon Rutherford, ADHL chief executive officer, adds: “Kiwis have shifted to recognising that EVs are the right direction for the future and Arcfox is a future-focused brand which can help them on this journey.
“The Arcfox T1 delivers great looks, an excellent driving experience and provides escape and relaxation in a refined environment.
“Arcfox is very progressive and is positioned around ‘smart, elegant and pure’. The T1 is a spacious and practical crossover – neither a car nor an SUV but offering the driving dynamics of a car with the practicality of an SUV.”
Rutherford says the T1’s space and technology offers widespread appeal and it will also be suitable for environmentally conscious consumers and as a company fleet vehicle.
The car comes equipped with a three-pin home charger, vehicle-to-load capability and DC charging capability of 30 to 80 per cent in 25 minutes when using the appropriate infrastructure.
Crash protection and crash-avoidance features including six airbags, electronic brake assist, electronic stability programme and electronic brake force distribution contribute to a five-star Vehicle Safety Risk Rating score.
The T1 has a panoramic glass roof and inside there is a 15.6-inch infotainment screen and a digital driver display.
Ride comfort is enhanced thanks to a class-leading 2770mm wheelbase, which in turn delivers extra interior space, especially for the passengers seated in the rear of the vehicle.
Shiguang Guo, general manager, BAIC and Arcfox New Zealand, says: “The Arcfox T1 represents a significant step forward for affordable electric mobility in New Zealand, and proves customers no longer need to choose between premium quality and affordability.
“This new vehicle delivers sophisticated design, impressive technology and a high level of standard equipment at a price that opens electric vehicle ownership to even more Kiwis.
“Arcfox is a brand built around innovation, premium craftsmanship and intelligent mobility. The T1 is the ideal introduction to the marque, offering customers a genuinely premium electric vehicle experience backed by exceptional value.”
Features such as front and rear parking radar, 360-degree surround view and transparent chassis, automatic parking and safety systems including automatic emergency braking, on-off adaptive intelligent cruise control system and traffic congestion assistance are all included as standard.
The T1 boasts a voice-control user interface that responds to a range of commands, from opening and closing the windows to adjusting the air conditioning temperature or activating key vehicle functions.
It is now arriving in dealerships for the first customer deliveries planned this month and additional Arcfox models are scheduled to launch over the coming months.
“We will reveal new arrivals in due course but suffice to say there will be more impressive Arcfox products headed to our shores,” notes Guo.
“It’s a hugely exciting time to be involved with not only a new brand, but one which offers so much variety as well as affordable luxury.”
