- Forthing will become the latest new brand to hit our shores when the Chinese carmaker sets up shop later this month.
- The Forthing brand is being distributed in New Zealand by BYD distributor Ateco Group.
- The brand will launch with the Taikon, a mid-size SUV available either as a BEV or PHEV.
The expansion of the Chinese automotive sector into New Zealand continues with the announcement that Forthing will officially launch in the local market later this month.
The debut is being led by the Forthing Taikon, a medium-sized SUV measuring 4.6 metres in length that will be available in two distinct powertrain configurations - a battery-electric model and a "Super Hybrid" - offered across two specification levels; Luxury and Exclusive.
Distributed locally by BYD New Zealand distributor Ateco, Forthing (called Fengxing in China) is a marque from the state-owned Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor Co., which is a division of the Dongfeng Motor Group that, as you may have guessed by now, sells cars under that name in New Zealand, but distributed by Armstrong's here.
Forthing says the Taikon range is built on a flexible electric architecture designed to "support different levels of electrification".
The pure electric variant uses a front-mounted 150kW/240Nm electric motor powered by a 64.4kWh battery that the company says will deliver a driving range of more than 400km under WLTP standards, with fast-charging capabilities that allow the battery to go from 30 to 80 per cent in approximately 30 minutes.
The Super Hybrid variant combines a 155kW 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 120kW/240Nm electric motor and a smaller 31.9kWh battery, also driving the front wheels. It is capable of operating as a dedicated electric vehicle for up to 183km, while its total combined driving range is claimed to exceed 1000km.
Todd Groves, General Sales Manager for Forthing New Zealand, said that the brand sees significant potential for the Taikon locally.
"Our role is to bring New Zealanders competitive new choices that make sense for their lifestyle. The Forthing Taikon, with its compelling blend of design and outstanding value, does exactly that. By launching with both
Luxury and Exclusive variants, we’re setting a great value for money option for Kiwi buyers - delivering premium design, pioneering technology, and exceptional value to create serious excitement in the market."
To support the Taikon's arrival, Groves said that Forthing is establishing a nationwide dealer network to provide comprehensive sales and aftersales services, bolstered by a seven-year or 200,000km factory warranty across the entire Taikon range.
While initial vehicles will be available for immediate delivery starting from the 17th of April, the brand expects to release further technical specifications and pricing details closer to the official launch date. Prospective buyers can currently register their interest through the brand's local website.
