EV QUEST

☀️ Solar + Battery After One Year: Dale’s Real-World Experience

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 listen to. If you found this useful, subscribe to EV Quest wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes cover EVs, solar and home electrification in New Zealand, More from EV Quest Website: https://evquest.co.nz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EVQuest

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KGM Musso Missing Airbags, Honest EV Confessions & Tesla’s Big Truck Order

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 confirmed for Australia and New Zealand, with a 0 to 100km/h time of just 3.5 seconds. • Vessev: The New Zealand electric hydrofoil company raises more than $30 million and expands into the US. • Kia PV5: Riz has been driving Kia's electric van and explains why it is attracting so much attention from traditional van drivers. • Tesla Semi: Tesla secures an order for 500 electric trucks as production ramps up. 🎾 Plus, Mercedes-Benz becomes the new automotive sponsor of the ASB Tennis Classic. 🎾 Next week, Adrian talks to a solar and battery owner about the real world experience of living with home solar and battery storage. Listen to EV Quest for the latest EV news, reviews and interviews from New Zealand, Australia and around the world. 🎧 https://evquest.co.nz/

BYD ATTO 3 EVO Arrives: Big Upgrade, Bigger Price?

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: Riz visits New Zealand and gets to drive several current and upcoming Zeekr models on snow and ice in the South Island. Riz's week driving the Kia PV5 electric van. Tesla introduces vehicle-to-load capability on new Model Y models in the US. Listen to the latest EV Quest Podcast for the latest electric vehicle news and developments from New Zealand, Australia and around the world. Foxtron Bria video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEC9LHgKPaU EV Quest site: https://evquest.co.nz/

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Australia EV Sales: July Winners & Losers | EV Quest Podcast

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: 🇦🇺 Australia's latest EV sales figures ⚡ EVs accounted for 21.7% of vehicle sales, with plug-in hybrids adding around another 10% 🔌 Around 35% of Australian vehicle sales were fully electric or plug-in 🚗 Australia's top-selling EV models The new Geely EX2 and the increasingly competitive $25,000–$35,000 segment Adrian's experience with the GWM Ora 5 New BYD models coming to Australia Zeekr's upcoming models for Australia and New Zealand Growing demand for EV charging infrastructure 🔗 LINKS & MORE Carloop: Australian EV data, insights & analysis - https://carloop.com.au/ EV Quest on YouTube: Subscribe for EV reviews & news - https://www.youtube.com/@EVQuest

2026 GWM ORA 5: Is This NZ's Best-Value EV?

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 has 120kW DC charging and Vehicle-to-Load capability. So, is the GWM ORA 5 worth considering? Thanks to Farmer GWM Tauranga for the load of the Ora 5. 🔋 https://farmerautovillage.co.nz/deal/all-new-ora-5-suv-coming-soon/ #GWM #ORA5 #GWMORA5 #EV #ElectricVehicle #EVReview #NZEV #ElectricCarNZ #GWMNZ #EVQuest

July EV Sales Impress, GWM Ora 5 Driven, Ford's Geely Deal

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 • Honda Super One arrives in New Zealand • NZ's proposed move towards electronic Road User Charges Carloop: https://carloop.com.au/ NZ EV sales data: https://evdb.nz/ Subscribe to EV Quest for independent EV reviews, industry interviews, news and discussion from New Zealand and around the world. #EVQuest #ElectricVehicles #EVNews #TeslaModelY #GWMORA5 #EVSales #Tesla #Zeekr #HondaSuperOne #BYD #Carloop #NewZealandEV #AustraliaEV #ElectricCars

Has China Already Won the EV Race? | The Big Shift in Australia & New Zealand

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: Fiat pausing EV sales in Australia and New Zealand Tesla Cybercab spotted testing in New Zealand New EV launches from Xpeng, Geely, BMW and Mercedes-Benz The future of charging infrastructure Links mentioned in this episode Carloop: https://carloop.com.au ABC article: How China Won the Car Wars with Cheap EVs Loaded with Technology https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-07-24/china-dominates-ev-market/106951586 AFR article: Too Late: Toyota Scrambles to Repel BYD's Local Surge https://www.afr.com/companies/transport/too-late-toyota-scrambles-to-repel-byd-s-local-surge-20260714-p60fab

GAC AION V Review: Big Range, Affordable, and with a Fridge!

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 China - with local partnerships with Honda and Toyota. Dealer network in NZ at time of recording is 8 dealerships. What do you think of the GAC AION V? Would you choose it over a BYD or MG? Let me know in the comments below. #EV #ElectricVehicle #GACAIONV #EVReview #NewZealandEV

Solar, Batteries & EVs | Lightforce Solar interview at Fieldays

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: How much a typical solar and battery system costs in New Zealand Whether you should install batteries now or add them later The best power company buy-back rates available today Using cheap overnight EV electricity plans to charge home batteries Green loan options from New Zealand banks Key tips when choosing a solar installer Common roofing considerations for solar installations If you're considering solar, battery storage, or want to reduce your power bills while charging your EV, this episode is packed with practical advice. 🌞 Learn more about Lightforce Solar: lightforce.co.nz #EVQuest #SolarNZ #ElectricVehicles #BatteryStorage #RenewableEnergy #LightforceSolar #Fieldays2026

What It Takes to Be a YouTube Car Reviewer - Jerry Pan Interview

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

BYD Atto 1 vs Atto 2 – Which One Should You Buy?

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 1 or Atto 2? Share your experience in the comments — it helps others make the right choice.

Solar, EV, Battery… What Should You Buy FIRST? (Most Get This Wrong)

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 matching tool https://evfit.nz/

Used EVs Are Selling Out: What One NZ Dealer Is Seeing Right Now

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: Why EV demand has suddenly accelerated The reality behind “no stock” headlines What first-time EV buyers need to know The truth about battery lifespan myths Examples of which vehicles offer the best value right now If you’re thinking about switching to an EV or just trying to make sense of the hype, this episode gives you real, on-the-ground insight from someone in the the know. LInk: GVI - https://www.gvi.kiwi/

EV Registrations Skyrocket in NZ

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: The top-selling EVs in New Zealand right now New models entering the market, including the electric Toyota Hilux Current EV deals and trends in Australia 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/

New EVs from Japan

EV Market: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/ev-boom-accelerates-with-second-week-of-record-sales/premium/KECLWAZJHRBEBOVY2ATN5DVB2I/ EVDB: https://evdb.nz/

Chinese EV News: What's Heading to NZ & AU Next?

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/

Foxtron Bria EV Review | A new Mitsubishi EV from Taiwan?

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.

EZgo Launch, MSI’s New Portable EV Charger

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: Who MSI is and why the company entered the EV charging space What the EZgo Portable Charger is and how it works How it differs from fixed home chargers Vehicle compatibility and real-world use cases Built-in safety features and charging best practices What’s happening in the wider EV charging market Where to buy the EZgo charger and what support MSI provides 🔔 Enjoyed this episode? Make sure you follow and subscribe to EV Quest for more expert interviews, EV news, real-world reviews, and practical advice on electric vehicles and charging, from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. New episodes drop regularly, so hit follow to stay up to date.

EVs at the Tennis, Sales Data, What's coming soon? | EV Quest Podcast

Adrian Maidment is joined by Riz Akhtar from Carloop, talking EVs. Data link: https://evdb.nz/sales

EV Quest’s 2025 EV of the Year Awards Podcast - Christmas Special

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: ⭐️ Biggest Buzz of the Year Best Value EV of the Year Large Electric SUV of the Year Best EV Not Available in NZ or Australia Hybrid / PHEV of the Year Industry Player of the Year What’s Riz Been Driving – EV of the Year (Overall Winner) A special thanks to everyone who has supported the channel in 2025.