Electrified vehicles are a hot topic in New Zealand, thanks to rising fuel prices, increasing climate change awareness and a Government Clean Car Importer Standard that still requires importers to bring in lots of hybrid and electric vehicles.
DRIVEN Car Guide is here to help, with a complete guide to every electrified vehicle on sale in NZ. We've covered hybrids and plug-in hybrids elsewhere, but here we deliver the need-to-know information on every Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) currently available, arranged from lowest to highest price.
BYD ATTO 1
Some call it a Seagull, some call it a Dolphin Surf, but here in NZ we call it the Atto 1, BYD's city car and the cheapest pure-electric vehicle ($29,990 is the full retail price) on the market.
That Essential-model entry price gets you a relatively small battery and range (fine for a city car though); step up to the more expensive Premium and the powertrain makes substantial gains.
Price $29,990-$35,990 Powertrain 30kWh or 43kW battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 65kW/175Nm or 115kW/220Nm Range 220-310km (WLTP).
DONGFENG BOX
The Dongfeng Box is a city car that also marked the launch of a whole new brand for NZ. It was also the first full-EV for less than $30k, albeit as a special introductory price.
Despite the favourable sticker, Box comes fully loaded with the likes of automatic parking, lie-flat front seats and 32-colour ambient lighting.
Price $29,990 (full retail $32,990 from May) Powertrain 43.89kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 70kW/160Nm Range 317km (WLTP).
GWM ORA
Ora is a compact five-door family car with quirky retro-futuristic styling; you might know it from overseas markets/media as the Ora Good Cat, but for NZ it's just "GWM Ora".
Ora comes in four different guises, with a choice of two battery sizes. There's even a sporty GT version, that's dress-up with different bumpers and wheels; no more power, but the electric motor is recalibrated to make it feel much more lively.
Price $36,990-$39,990 Powertrain 48kWh or 63kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 126kW/250Nm Range 345km (WLTP).
OMODA E5
The Omoda brand comes from Chinese carmaking giant Chery. It launched with a compact SUV called C5 in its petrol forms and, as featured here, E5 with an all-electric powertrain.
The E5 comes in two specifications, the entry BX and top EX. Plenty of tech, but sharp pricing is Omoda's calling card.
Price $36,990-$40,990 Powertrain 64kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 150kW/340Nm Range 430km.
DONGFENG VIGO
Dongfeng pitches Vigo as "the best value EV-SUV in NZ". It's certainly the least expensive, as well as being one of the country's cheapest pure-electric vehicles of any kind.
The maker claims the clever interior is a major selling point, including a split tailgate that can support 150kg. Tech includes a camping mode that can maintain 25deg inside while providing continuous power, even when the car is locked.
Price $37,990 (full retail $39,990 from May) Powertrain 51kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 120kW/230Nm Range 310km (WLTP).
FIAT/ABARTH 500e
It looks familiar, but the pure-electric Fiat 500e is an all-new generation of Fiat's small car, sharing nothing with the previous petrol models (which are still on sale).
The 500e is 61mm longer and 56mm wider than the petrol model, meaning slightly more interior space - although it's still ultra-compact.
The maker would no doubt argue the Abarth version is a whole separate model (it's not branded a Fiat at all), but it's built upon the same base.
Price $37,990-$41,990 Powertrain 42kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 87kW/220Nm or 113kW/235 Range 253-320km (WLTP).
BYD ATTO 2
BYD NZ is filling out its Atto portfolio nicely. Following on from the Atto 1 city car and sitting underneath the Atto 3, the new Atto 2 is a compact-SUV.
It comes in two versions, Dynamic and Premium, but the same powertrain setup applies to both.
Price $39,990-$45,990 Powertrain 51kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 130kW/290Nm Range 335-430km.
MG4
The MG4 represents a whole new generation of BEV technology for the brand, including the new Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) and rear-drive.
The Excite specification is available with 51kWh or 64kWh batteries, while the higher-specification Essence versions come with a choice of 64kWh or 77kWh. The long(est)-range 77kWh offers an impressive 530km between charges, while the range is topped by the incredibly fast XPower model: 0-100km/h in 3.8sec!
Price $40,990-$59,990 Powertrain 51kWh, 64kWh or 77kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 125kW/250Nm, 150kW/250Nm or 300kW/600Nm Range 435-530km.
JAECOO J5
Where Chery's Omoda brand is all about urban style, its Jaecoo division focuses on a more off-roady SUV vibe. So think of the J5 as a chunkier alternative to the Omoda E5 (they're on the same platform).
J5 comes in a single specification and sorry, no actual off-roading for you: it's front-drive. But it does feature easy-to-clean, anti-bacterial "pet friendly" upholstery.
Price $42,990 Powertrain 59kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 155kW/288Nm Range 402km.
LEAPMOTOR B10
The new-for-2025 B10 might look like a scaled-down version of the now-familiar C10, but it's a bit more than that. It's based on a newer platform and pushes further forward in hardware and especially software.
As always, Leapmotor claims the B10 is a very European Chinese car, with chassis tuning by partner Stellantis carried out at the Balocco Proving Ground in Italy.
Price $44,990-$49,990 Powertrain 56.2kWh or 67.1kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, RWD Power/torque 160kW/240Nm Range 361-434km.
MG S5 EV
The S5 EV is the true replacement for the extremely popular ZS EV, which really helped establish EVs in the Kiwi mainstream when it was launched. But things move on, and the S5 EV has moved upmarket quite a bit.
It's now on the same platform as the MG4, so it's moved to rear-drive. It features an "elevated interior" with large infotainment display and some very premium-looking materials.
Price $44,990-$50,990 Powertrain 49kWh or 62kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, RWD Power/torque 125kW/250Nm Range 335-430km.
GAC AION
The Aion V is the most mainstream model from new entrant GAC; although it's the "GAC Aion V" for NZ, in fact Aion serves as a standalone EV brand in China.
Aion V comes in two models, Premium and Luxury. Same powertrain for both, but the Luxury adds some novel features including second-row table and in-car refrigerator.
Price $49,990-$51,990 Powertrain 75kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 150kW/210Nm Range 510km (WLTP).
MINI COOPER
The Cooper 3dr hatch was the first model to bring pure-electric power to the Mini lineup - and now there's an all-new model, which sits alongside the new-gen ICE range.
It's now a three-tier affair, with the entry Cooper E (135kW) and the higher-performance Cooper SE (160kW) joined by the 190kW JCW hot hatch.
Price $49,990-$72,990 Powertrain 41kWh or 54kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 135kW/290Nm or 160kW/330Nm Range 305-402km 0-100km/h 6.7-7.3 seconds.
GEELY EX5
Chinese giant Geely controls some big-name brands: Volvo, Polestar, Lotus. But the mainstream EX5 is the first new-generation Geely-branded vehicle to be sold in NZ - not counting a soft launch here around 15 years ago, which is several lifetimes in car terms.
The EX5 is a thoroughly modern medium-SUV packed with high-tech features, at a price that's on parity with many petrol rivals. It comes in two versions, Complete and Inspire.
Price $51,990-$55,990 Powertrain 60kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 160kW/320Nm Range 410-430km.
MINI ACEMAN
Aceman is notable for being the first Mini designed from the ground up as a pure-electric vehicle. It's a supermini-sized 5-door hatch that fits in between the Cooper 3dr and Countryman SUV.
The entry Aceman E is aimed at "city dwellers" says Mini, with a smaller battery and less power. The top SE "packs a big punch" with a larger power pack and an extra 25kW.
Price $51,990-$69,990 Powertrain 43kWh or 54kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 135kW/290Nm, 160kW/330Nm or 336kW/639Nm Range 406km.
DONGFENG 007
Dongfeng describes the 007 as a "fastback coupe", but to the rest of us it's clearly a low-slung rival for he Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal.
The pricing is sharp and so is the performance. The top dual-motor model costs just $5k more than standard, but can rocket to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds.
Price $54,900-$59,990 Powertrain 70kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, FWD or AWD Power/torque 200kW/320Nm or 400kW/640Nm Range 389-520km (WLTP).
LEAPMOTOR C10
Leapmotor is a Chinese startup (only a decade old) that's now in partnership with automotive giant Stellantis (Peugeot, Jeep) to take its cars to export markets.
C10 was the first, a handsome SUV that's somwehere between medium and large in size. The mainstream version has a single motor, but there's also now a super-fast (0-100km/h in 4.0 seconds) dual-motor AWD.
Price $54,990-$64,990 Powertrain 69.9kWh or 81.9kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 160kW/320Nm or 440kW/720Nm Range 420-437km (WLTP).
KIA EV3
The EV3 is Kia's new city EV-SUV - and a replacement for the Niro EV, which continues in hybrid and plug-in hybrid forms. Conveniently, EV3 pricings starts at a very similar level to the previous pure-electric Niro.
That's for the entry-level version with a modest 58kWh battery, but the rest of the range picks up a larger 81kWh that gives a very impressive 600km-plus on a full charge in the most efficient version.
Price $55,520-$75,220 Powertrain 58kWh or 81kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 150kW/283Nm Range 436-605km.
TOYOTA bZ4X
The bZ4X is the first pure-electric vehicle ever sold by Toyota NZ: the "bZ" stands for beyond zero, signifying a new generation of BEVs for the brand.
A facelift for 2026 brings a higher-capacity battery, changes to the electric motors that increase range, a revised interior... and the addition of the striking Touring wagon body shape.
Price $56,990-$69,990 Powertrain 74.7kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, FWD or AWD Power/torque 167kW, 255kW or 280kW (torque TBC) Range 517-591km.
BYD ATTO 3
The Atto 3 is a small-medium SUV that packs a substantial technology punch thanks to BYD's proprietary Blade battery technology, which is claims is the safest in the world, and features like a rotating infotainment screen, embedded SIM card for live updates/remote control and a V2L adaptor included with the car (which allows the user to charge external devices from the vehicle).
One of the most interesting/polarising features of the Atto 3 is its highly stylised interior, which has elements designed to look like a gym.
Price $57,990 Powertrain 60kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 150kW/310Nm Range 420km (WLTP).
SMART #1 & #3
New-gen Smart is a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz (owner of the "old" Smart) and Chinese maker Geely. Its first two models are the #1 SUV and #3 coupe-SUV: different styling, but exactly the same platform and tech (which is why we're dealing with them as the same thing).
So two different body styles, but also two different model lines for each hashtag: standard RWD and the outrageously fast Brabus versions, which can rip to 100km/h in less than 4 seconds.
Price $59,990-$79,990 Powertrain 66kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 200kW/343Nm or 315kW/543Nm Range 420-455km.
ZEEKR X
The X is Zeekr's entry-level model for NZ, a sporty compact-SUV that shares quite a lot underneath with the Volvo EX30 (both brands are part of the Geely group of companies).
It comes in either rear-drive or very fast AWD (0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds) versions, both with the same 66kWh battery.
Price $59,900-$69,900 Powertrain 66kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 200kW or 300kW Range 440-470km.
BYD SEAL
The Seal sedan is part of the Ocean Series and a bigger brother to the Dolphin hatchback. It's also a close relation to the new Sealion 7 crossover-SUV.
Seal opens with the RWD Dynamic, but the majority of the lineup is AWD and the hero model is... very heroic indeed: the Performance, with 0-100km/h in 3.8sec (which is written on the bootlid!).
Price $61,990-$81,990 Powertrain 61kWh or 82kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 150kW/310Nm, 230kW/360Nm or 390kW/670Nm Range 460-570km 0-100km/h 7.5-3.8 seconds.
Read DRIVEN Car Guide's review of the BYD Seal Performance
TESLA MODEL 3
The Model 3 has become a hero car for Tesla in NZ - and a hero car for the BEV cause globally. It's the world's biggest-selling pure-electric vehicle.
As a company, Tesla likes to do things differently. It doesn't like to talk about battery capacities and power outputs, but it loves to highlight range and acceleration figures. Unsurprisingly, these are two areas where the Model 3 is a standout.
A revised Model 3 has just been launched, showcasing new exterior and interior design. Just in RWD and AWD long range versions for now - with the super-fast Performance yet to be announced.
Price $63,900-$84,900 Powertrain 50kWh or 75kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 150kW/350Nm, 258kW/527Nm or 336kW/639Nm Range 513-629km.
KIA EV4
Kia's EVs seem to get wackier looking with every new model. The EV4 is arguably the most striking-looking of a striking bunch, not to mention the novelty value of being a sedan among an SUV-heavy brand lineup.
EV4 comes in two models but just one powertrain, with the single motor driving the front wheels.
Price $63,990-$75,990 Powertrain 81.4kWh battery, single motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 150kW/283Nm Range 612-633km (WLTP).
VOLVO EX30
It's small, but the EX30 is a big deal for Volvo. It's the most eco-friendly car the brand has ever made (the company says this car's lifetime carbon footprint is half that of an XC40), but it's also the fastest: the top dual-motor Cross Country version can sprint to 100km/h in just 3.6sec.
It looks quite sporty too, but Volvo has also done a great job of working overtly recycled materials into the cabin design.
Price $63,990-$69,990 Powertrain 69kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 200kW/343Nm or 315kW/543Nm Range 450km-476km (WLTP).
BYD SEALION 7
From the outside, the Sealion 7 is simply a sportier SUV-coupe-style alternative to the Sealion 6 family model. But dig a little deeper and it's closer to a high-riding version of the Seal sedan - because it's pure-electric, unlike the plug-in hybrid Sealion 6.
Confusing? No need to think about it. Instead focus on the 7's aggressive pricing and the performance potential of the top dual-motor model.
Price $67,990-$79,990 Powertrain 83kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD Power/torque 230kW/380Nm or 390kW/690Nm Range 456-482km.
KIA EV5
Kia has "EV"-branded models everywhere, but the EV5 is particularly important: it's the Korean maker's entry into the Kiwi heartland of medium SUVs.
The lineup covers a lot of ground, from FWD to AWD, Light, Earth and GT-Line specifications. But all get the same big 88.1kWh battery.
Price $67,990-$85,450 Powertrain 88.1kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 160kW/310Nm or 230kW/480Nm Range 470-555km.
TESLA MODEL Y
The new Model Y is now available, with Tesla's crossover-cum-people mover catching up to its Model 3 sibling on design and technology.
The new model still opens with RWD, or for an extra $10k you can have the long-range AWD. There's no range-topping Performance model... yet.
Price $67,990-$77,990 Powertrain Single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Range 466-551km (WLTP).
SKODA ELROQ
Elroq is Skoda's first entry into the compact-EV segment and showcases its latest SUV design, including the "Tech Deck Face" and "Modern Solid" shapes.
It's based on the VW Group's familiar MEB platform and comes in two models, 60 and Sportline 85 (the numbers refer to the battery sizes).
Price $69,000-$79,000 Powertrain 60kWh or 85kWh battery, Single electric motor, single-speed transmission, RWD Power/torque 150kW/310Nm or 210kW/545Nm Range 400-530km (WLTP).
ZEEKR 7X
It's not the most expensive model in the lineup, but you could safely say the 7X medium-SUV is Zeekr's hero model: the newest and most high-tech machine it offers in NZ.
The RWD model features the so-called "Golden Battery", but all versions boast very high charging speeds. The top Perofrmance has some headline numbers, including 475kW amd 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds... plus Rolls-Royce style power doors.
Price $69,990-$94,990 Powertrain 75kWh or 100kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, FWD or AWD Power/torque 310kW/440Nm or 475kW/710Nm Range 480km-615km (WLTP).
FORD MUSTANG MACH-E
Refreshed for 2026, Ford says the main changes to the Mach-E are focused on "real-world gains". Things like a heat pump, faster charging and Predicative Speed Assist for the adpative cruise control.
But fear not: there's also more power. The Kiwi lineup is down to just two models now, but the entry Select has broken through the 200kW barrier, while the high-performance GT now serves up well in excess of 400kW.
Price $74,990-$116,990 Powertrain 73kWh or 91kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, FWD or AWD Power/torque 212kW/525Nm or 434kW/955Nm Range 440-550km.
MINI COUNTRYMAN
Previously available as a plug-in hybrid, the all-new Countryman EV has shifted to pure-electric power (conventional ICE models also continue).
It comes in two models, both with the same 64kWh battery: the front-drive single-motor E and the dual-motor SE All4, which ups the performance significantly.
Price $74,990-$80,990 Powertrain 64kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, FWD or AWD Power/torque 150kW/250Nm or 230kW/338Nm Range 432-462km.
VOLKSWAGEN ID.4 & ID.5 GTX
Volkswagen's mainstream ID.4 and ID.5 models disappeared last year, but now they are back as performance-focused GTX models, albeit in a limited run of 70 units.
The ID.4 is the SUV version, the ID.5 more of a sleek pseudo-coupe - but they're very similar and sell for the same price. The 250kW AWD powertrain is similar to that used in the Cupra Tavascan VZ, Skoda Enyaq RS and even the VW ID.Buzz GTX.
Price $76,990 Powertrain 77kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 250kW/545Nm Range 400km.
CUPRA TAVASCAN
Tavascan is both the range-topping model for the entire Cupra lineup in NZ, and the latest (also sportiest) EV to be based on the ubiquitous VW Group MEB platform (VW ID.4, Skoda Enyaq, Audi Q4 e-tron, VW ID. Buzz).
It's all about pointy styling, lots of lights inside and out, and driving fun. The lineup opens with a rear-drive V model, which is arguably a more pleasureable machine to pilot - but most buyers go for the more powerful VZ version.
Price $84,900-$94,900 Powertrain 77kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 210kW/545Nm or 250kW/545Nm Range 499-534km.
SKODA ENYAQ
The Yaq is back: after a hiatus from the Kiwi market, the Skoda Enyaq is back in facelifted form with a lineup that's simplified in the mainstream but also expanded at the top.
There's now just one RWD model, the Sportline. But new to the range is the more performance-oriented RS, with dual motors for AWD.
Price $89,900-$99,000 Powertrain 77kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 210kW/545Nm or 250kW/545Nm Range 530km.
CADILLAC OPTIQ
Optiq was launched in tandem with the (much) larger Vistiq for 2026, taking Cadillac's Kiwi EV tally to three.
It's the entry point to the brand for NZ, although don't assume it's small (it's on the larger side of medium for SUVs) or cheap. It's still all about luxury.
Price $90,000 Powertrain 75kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 224kW/480Nm Range 425km (manfacturer claim).
BMW iX2
BMW iX1 too... square for you? The new-generation coupe-style X2 is also now available as a pure-electric model, with a 66.5kW battery and generous 440km range.
It's also a little cheaper than the iX1 (which is why you'll have to scroll on a little further to see that model), because it's offered only in eDrive20 guise, with a single rear-mounted motor.
Price $92,900 Powertrain 66.5kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, RWD Power/torque 150kW/247Nm Range 440km.
MERCEDES-BENZ EQA 250
The EQA is Mercedes-Benz's second BEV - an urban SUV that translates the look of the larger EQC into a more city-friendly size. It's equivalent to the petrol GLA in the maker's wider range.
Unlike the EQC (but very much in keeping with the urban SUV ethos), the EQA is front-drive. You still get a generous battery though, meaning a WLTP range of 400km-plus.
Price $93,900 Powertrain 67kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 140kW/375Nm Range 410km (WLTP).
BMW iX1
BMW's baby SUV, the X1, got a real lift in quality and technology with the new third-generation model launched in 2022, which featured a perky three-cylinder petrol engine and some very impressive driver-assistance and safety tech. In our review, we likened the design to the larger iX BEV.
That's even more valid now that BMW has added BEV power to its compact-SUV, to create the iX1. Sold in a single xDrive30 specification, it adds a lot to the X1 package with 230kW and all-wheel drive.
Price $96,900 Powertrain 66kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 230kW/494Nm Range 432-466km.
CADILLAC LYRIQ
Cadillac is very serious about expanding into factory right-hand models. The luxury Lyriq was the first, but there are now also Optiq and Vistiq models (yes, it likes the letter "q").
Lyriq can be ordered in two different specifications, but both with the same powertrain: Luxury is more traditional, with shiny trim, while Sport goes more subtle, with blacked-out details. The 2025 models are in runout, hence the very sharp sub-$100k price.
Price $99,000 Powertrain 84kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 210kW/400, 250kW/430Nm or 400kW/795Nm Range 590-510km.
POLESTAR 2
This BEV specialist is a joint venture between Volvo and parent company Geely, and it uses plenty of the Swedish brand's styling cues.
The 2 is part sedan, part fastback and part SUV. Originally launched in FWD, an upgrade in 2023 made the switch to improved battery technology and RWD.
Price $99,990-$109,900 Powertrain 82kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 220kW/490Nm or 310kW/740Nm Range 596-659km (WLTP).
VOLVO EX40
Volvo's "tough little robot" compact-SUV has been with us for a while - since 2017. But it's come along on the journey to electrification. Previously available in PHEV format (now discontinued for NZ), the little 40 is now pure-electric.
Formerly called the XC40 Recharge, the EX40 now comes only in top-specification dual-motor form. It's very fast, with 0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds.
Price $99,990 Powertrain 82kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 300kW/670Nm Range 485km.
MERCEDES-BENZ EQB
Call it a larger alternative to the EQA with a seven-seat option, or a pure-electric version of the GLB SUV – technically speaking, either is correct for the EQB.
The initial EQB lineup was rationalised for NZ and there’s now just one model, the 250+ with front-drive.It comes as standard with a third row of seats
Price $102,500 Powertrain 70.5kWh battery, single electric motor, single-speed transmission, FWD Power/torque 140kW/385Nm Range 360km.
AUDI Q4 E-TRON
The Q4 e-tron is Audi's iteration of the VW Group MEB pure-electric platform, but it goes further upmarket - including a quattro AWD powertrain option.
The 40 Advanced is single-motor RWD, while the 50 quattro S line adds a second motor. The SUV body style is standard, but either model can be order as a Sportback pseudo-coupe for an extra $4k.
Price $103,990-$120,990 Powertrain 77kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 150kW/310Nm, 220kW/460Nm Range 511-542km.
LEXUS RZ 450e
The RZ450e is Lexus's second pure-electric model (after the compact UX300e) but definitely its first bespoke BEV. It's closely related to the Toyota bZ4X, but stands mainly as a pure-electric alternative to the Lexus; it looks similar, but it's shorter and lower, and shares no body panels.
There's a revised model for 2026, featuring an attention-grabbing technology: steer-by-wire (no physical connection between steering wheel and the front axles) and a space-age "yoke" steering wheel.
Price $109,900-$151,600 Powertrain 74kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 280kW or 300kW (torque TBC) Range 450-500km.
MG CYBERSTER
Yes, MG is making a 2-seat sports car again. Or perhaps that should be super-sports car, given the performance potential of the top AWD model: 0-100km/h in just 3.2 seconds.
But perhaps the single-motor rear-drive model is more brand-appropriate and it's hardly slow, with 0-100km/h in 5.2sec. Whatever you choose, you get the same stunning styling and scissor doors.
Price $109,990-$129,000 Powertrain 77kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 250kW/475Nm or 375kW/725Nm Range 443-507km.
CADILLAC VISTIQ
Vistiq represents the ultimate in space and luxury for the Cadillac brand in NZ, a properly large SUV with 6 seats in 3 rows, including captain's chairs in the middle.
There's plenty of tech underneath, too: Air Ride adaptive suspension, active rear steering and Brembo brakes are all standard.
Price $109,990-$129,000 Powertrain 77kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 250kW/475Nm or 375kW/725Nm Range 443-507km.
BMW i4
The i4 takes BMW's familiar "Gran Coupe" styling theme and applies it to a pure-electric model: tradition with the latest BEV technology.
The eDrive40 is rear-drive only (the M50 AWD is no longer available), with an M Sport package a sstandard.
Price $124,900 Powertrain 102kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 388kW/610Nm Range 530km.
POLESTAR 4
One design detail helped make the Polestar 4 famous: it has no rear window, with rearward vision handling by a sophisticated camera system.
But that's just one aspect of an overtly idiosyncratic luxury model, which has the high(ish) ground clearance of an SUV, the sleek exterior styling of a coupe... and business class-style rear seats.
Price $124,990-$134,990 Powertrain 100kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 200kW or 400kW Range 590-620km.
AUDI Q6 E-TRON
Just as the model number suggests, the Q6 e-tron sits in between the Q4 and Q8. But really, it stands apart because it's a new-generation SUV based on a whole new platform (PPE, shared with the Porsche Macan).
The entry Advanced model is single-motor rear-drive, which is a novelty for an Audi. But the mid-range S line steps up to quattro AWD, with the performance-oriented SQ6 topping the range.
Price $134,990-$169,990 Powertrain 94.9kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 225kW, 285kW or 360kW, torque output front/rear -/485Nm or RWD, 275/580Nm for AWD Range 567-638km.
AUDI A6/S6 E-TRON
How low can you go? Audi has doubled down on its Avant wagon credentials with the pure-electric A6 and S6 range, built on the PPE platform of the Q6/SQ6 SUVs.
Intruigingly, use of that platform means that the entry single-motor versions are rear-drive - a real novely for a brand that's traditionally built its quattro models from a front-drive architecture.
Price $144,990-$202,990 Powertrain 94.9kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 270kW, 285kW or 360kW, torque output front/rear -/485Nm or RWD, 275/580Nm for AWD Range 623-650km.
POLESTAR 3
The 3 was the model that launched Polestar into the luxury big-time. While it's based on a shared platform with Volvo, the idea is that the 3 is "designed as a Polestar from the start" and it's certainly a unique luxury SUV: high ground clearance, but with a low roof.
The body shape is full of clever aero details (if you look closely) and the interior goes big on sustainable materials.
Price $149,990-$184,990 Powertrain 111kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 220kW/490Nm, 360kW/840Nm or 380kW/910Nm Range 561-628km.
ZEEKR 009
The 009 is a pure-electric people that you simply can't ignore: bold styling, a super-luxury interior and massive battery that gives a long range and enables rapid performance from the dual motors.
There are two versions. Even the 7-seater has two comfy captain's chairs in the second row, but if you opt for the more exensive 6-seater you get even more sumptuous chairs in the middle and more luxurious 3rd-row accommodation.
Price $149,900-$154,900 Powertrain 116kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 450kW/693Nm Range 582km.
MERCEDES-BENZ EQE SUV
Just like it says on the box, the "EQE SUV" is... an SUV version of the EQE sedan, with the same platform and battery technology.
The SUV is still a very different machine, however. While the sedan is sleek and super-low, the SUV has more ground clearance and a higher driving position. But with the weight low-down in the chassis (as is the case with most BEVs), the driving dynamics are still very sharp. A high-powered Mercedes-AMG version still tops the range.
Price $151,800-$210,800 Powertrain 89kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, FWD/AWD Power/torque 180kW/550Nm, 215kW/765Nm or 460kW/950 Range 500km-626km (WLTP) 0-100km/h 7.3-3.7 seconds.
PORSCHE MACAN ELECTRIC
Porsche has boldly gone pure-electric-only with its new-generation Macan - although the previous petrol model does also continue for now.
Macan is on an all-new platform called PPE and the range is broad, from an entry rear-drive model all the way through to the very fast Turbo. New for 2026 is a GTS.
Price $161,800-$224,900 Powertrain 100kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, FWD/AWD Power/torque 265kW/563Nm, 285kW/650Nm, 330kW/820Nm or 430kW/1130Nm Range 516km-641km (WLTP).
MERCEDES-BENZ EQS SUV
Underneath, the EQS SUV is a larger version of the EQE SUV: 262mm longer, with an extra 180mm in the wheelbase (most of which goes into second-row legroom). But on top, it aims to combine the top-level luxury of an S-Class with the practicality of a seven-seat SUV.
There's the EQS 450 4Matic, boasting an enormous 108kWh battery and range of up to 592km. Rear-axle steering is standard, to assist with city driving and parking. But if you want to go all-out on luxury, there's also a Maybach version.
Price $197,500-$304,500 Powertrain 108kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 265kW/800Nm or 484kW/955 Range 592km.
BMW iX
The iX is BMW's radical new-generation pure-electric SUV, showcasing its latest design cues, interior architecture and BEV technology.
Updated for 2026, it now comes solely in an xDrive45 model, with the M Sport package as standard.
Price $169,900 Powertrain 112kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 300kW/765Nm Range 532km.
LOTUS EMEYA
Lotus calls the Emeya 4-door a "hyper-GT". It's from the Chinese division of the company (owned by Geely) and based on the same platform as the Eletre SUV, but with substantial changes to make it lower and more sporty - including a thinner battery.
You can be as extreme as you like, with three different versions on offer: even the entry model has 450kW, while the top R boasts 675kW.
Price $220,000-$290,000 Powertrain 102kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 450kW/710Nm or 675kW/985Nm Range 435-610km.
PORSCHE TAYCAN
Porsche has offered plug-in cars for nearly a decade, but Taycan went down in history as its first full BEV. Now facelift, it's available in a dizzying range of body style, powertrain and power configurations.
There are low-slung "sport saloon" and SUV-style Cross Turismo models, with rear-drive (saloon only) and all-wheel drive, and standard or long-range batteries. And now, even a track-focused Turbo GT.
Price $230,000-$488,900 Powertrain 89kWh or 105kWh battery, single or dual electric motors, two-speed transmission, RWD or AWD Power/torque 300kW/345Nm, 380kW/710Nm, 520kW/890Nm, 570kW/1110Nm, 580kW/1240Nm Range 503-678km.
MERCEDES-BENZ G580
It might look a lot like a regular G-Wagen (even the "G580" name doesn't give a lot away), but the pure-electric version of Mercedes-Benz's iconic 4x4 is a huge engineering achievement in its own right.
There are four motors, one for each wheel, and the G580 boasts some extreme features such as G-Steer (esssentially an automated handbrake turn) and G-Turn (the car can spin through 720deg in its own length).
Price $231,400 Powertrain 116kWh battery, quad electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 432kW/1164Nm Range 567km (NEDC).
LOTUS ELETRE
Eletre was Lotus's first-ever SUV at launch in 2022, and the first new product from its China-based Lotus Technologies division (although the various components of the company are now united under one management).
In true luxury-SUV fashion, it's outlandish to look at, very fast and very expensive. It's also a close relation of the Emeya super-sedan.
Price $235,000-$315,000 Powertrain 102kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 450kW/710Nm or 675kW/985Nm Range 410-600km.
BMW i7
The transition of BMW's traditional flagship sedan to fully electric was a watershed moment (although it's also now available in plug-in hybrid).
The i7 is dripping with luxury, high technology and surprise-and-delight features, including a "Great Entrance Moments" welcoming protocol when you approach/unlock, "lounge atmosphere" cabin and a cinema-like 31.3in screen in the back.
Price $289,500 Powertrain 106kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 400kW/745Nm Range 590-625km 0-100km/h 4.7 seconds.
ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE
The most expensive BEV you can buy in NZ is a Rolls-Royce: who'd have thought? Actually it wouldn't have been a possibility in previous years, because the Spectre is indeed R-R's first-ever pure-electric car.
Spectre is a 2-door with the classic Rolls coach doors and the vehicle for a wealth of personalisation from the factory. So that $750k price is really only a starting point.
Price $750,000 (exclusive of personalisation) Powertrain 102kWh battery, dual electric motors, single-speed transmission, AWD Power/torque 430kW/900Nm Range 530km.