EV QUEST

Dale is a Tauranga homeowner, not an installer. Thirteen months ago he put 16 solar panels and a home battery on his roof, and in this episode he opens up about the instal process and how it’s all looking now.

He walks through the whole thing: how he chose an installer, why he replaced his roof before anything went on it, and what the system is actually saving him. It hasn't all been smooth sailing!

If you're getting quotes on solar, or just in the thinking about it stage, this is the conversation to have a...

A big week for EVs and clean transport, with a safety issue affecting KGM Musso EVs, an unusually honest admission from Leapmotor NZ, a new electric wagon heading our way and Tesla landing its biggest Semi order yet.

This week Adrian Maidment and Riz Akhtar discuss:

• KGM Musso EV: More than 300 vehicles are reportedly missing two airbags featured in the vehicle's marketing material.

• Leapmotor NZ: The distributor gives an unusually candid assessment of the brand's early sales performance and what needs to change.

• Zeekr 7GT: The 500kW electric wagon has been confir...

The BYD ATTO 3 EVO has arrived, bringing faster charging, more range, improved performance and a refreshed design. But, can it still compete in an increasingly crowded EV market?

Adrian and Riz also look at Mitsubishi's new ASX VR-e, based on the Foxtron Bria. Adrian has driven the Taiwan-market version that the Mitsubishi is based on.

Plus:

In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian catches up with Riz Akhtar, founder of Carloop, to break down the latest Australian EV sales figures and what they tell us about the market.

We look at why the new Model Y L is proving so popular.

Also discussed:

I've spent the night with the new 2026 GWM ORA 5 Ultra to find out what it's really like to live with, and whether this new electric SUV should be on your shortlist.

In this EV Quest review, I take the GWM ORA 5 Ultra out on city streets, and open roads to look at the driving experience. I'm checking out the  technology, interior space, boot space, charging and overall value for money.

I'm driving the ORA 5 Ultra, priced from $39,990 RRP plus on-road costs.

The ORA 5 uses a 58.3kWh LFP battery and is front-wheel drive. It h...

EV sales continue to impress across New Zealand, who is number 1? In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian Maidment is joined by Carloop founder Riz Akhtar to unpack the latest EV news from New Zealand, Australia and around the world.

 
⚡ IN THIS EPISODE:

• July NZ EV sales 
• Zeekr 7X climbs to #2
• Nissan Leaf used imports remain remarkably strong
• Adrian's first impressions of the new GWM ORA 5
• Riz drives the MINI Aceman JCW
• Ford and Geely join forces to build vehicles in Europe
• BYD takes on Japan's kei-car market
...

The electric vehicle market in Australia and New Zealand is changing faster than ever.

In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment is joined by Carloop founder and EV industry analyst Riz Akhtar to explore the biggest trends reshaping the automotive industry. They discuss BYD's rapid growth, why Chinese manufacturers are dominating the EV market, whether Toyota and other legacy brands can fight back, and what falling prices mean for buyers.

They also cover:

The GAC AION V has arrived in New Zealand promising plenty of features for the money. With a 510km WLTP range, a built-in fridge/freezer, massage seats and fast charging capability, can it stand out in New Zealand's increasingly crowded midsize electric SUV market?

In this review, I take the AION V Lux for a full day of driving to find out how it performs on New Zealand roads and whether it offers enough to tempt buyers away from rivals.

GAC is a relatively new brand in NZ, however, it is well a established company...

In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian catches up with Rowan from Lightforce Solar at Fieldays 2026 to explore the latest developments in residential solar, battery storage, and EV charging.

Rowan takes us through the popular Sigenergy solar and battery system, explains how battery storage is becoming more affordable, discusses New Zealand's unique two-phase power setup, and shares what EV owners need to know about future vehicle-to-home (V2H) charging.

We also cover:

In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian talks with Auckland-based car reviewer Jerry Pan from Jerry Pan and Cars to uncover what really goes on behind the scenes of YouTube car reviews. Jerry shares his process of sourcing cars, filming, editing, and publishing detailed reviews. 

Jerry also discusses some of the recent  standout vehicles he has reviewed. If you have ever wondered what it takes to build a car review channel,  this episode is packed with insights.

Jerry Pan and Cars - https://www.youtube.com/@JerryPanandCars

Thinking about buying an affordable electric car in New Zealand? In this video, I test drive and compare the BYD Atto 1 and Atto 2 to help you decide which one is right for you.

From pricing and range to real-world driving feel, I break down the key differences between these two EVs — including which one I’d personally choose.

If you're considering your first EV or upgrading to something more practical, this is a must-watch.

👉 Try the EV Finder Tool (Beta): EVFIT.NZ
 Find the right EV for your lifestyle

👇 Already own an Atto...

Thinking about going electric with solar, EVs, or home batteries?
In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment talks with Neerav Bhatt ('Electrifying Everything') — who’s done it all.

From sealing his home to running a fully electric, solar-powered lifestyle, Neerav shares what actually works, and what  people often get wrong.

If you’re considering:
Solar panels
Electric vehicles
Home batteries
Reducing power bills

🔌 Follow Neerav
Search: Electrifying Everything on YouTube
Website:  https://www.bhatt.id.au/blog/about-neerav-bhatt/

📲 EV FIT - New Zealand's free EV matchi...

Fuel prices are rising, and so is interest in electric vehicles. In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment talks with Hayden Johnson, General Manager of EV specialist dealership GVI, to unpack what’s really happening in New Zealand’s EV market.

Are EVs actually selling out? Is this surge driven purely by petrol prices, or are we seeing a genuine tipping point in consumer behaviour?

They cover:

In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian Maidment is joined by Riz Akhtar from Carloop to break down the latest EV registration data from March. 

We explore:

Plus, Riz shares insights from recent test drives and previews upcoming events like the Melbourne Motor Show and Beijing Auto Show.

Carloop: https://carloop.com.au/
EVDB: https://evdb.nz/

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/ezgo

The episode covers:

 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 ceremony

We 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: ⭐️

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 mg

Thanks to Farmer MG for the loan of the IM6 - https://farmermg.co.nz/

🔔 Subscribe to EV Quest for NZ-focused EV reviews, news, and hon...

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.

W...

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:

If 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. 

Con...

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 MG4
Nissan'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:

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.

👉 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 #evnews

Mentioned:
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.

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 kids

Whether you’re in Australia, New Zealand, or anywhere else, this conversation will give you prac...

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:

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.