Another new Chinese brand is set to hit the New Zealand market next month Forthing This confirms it will launch in April with a mid-size SUV range – and an Australian launch is planned.
Headlining the brand’s Kiwi debut is the Forthing Taikona coupe-style SUV offered with both plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains, positioned as a value-focused alternative in an increasingly crowded segment.
The Taikon will be available in two trim levels – Luxury and Exclusive – for both powertrains. Pricing and full specifications are yet to be announced.
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The EV version uses a 150 kW electric motor and a 64.4 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which is said to deliver a range of between 350 km and 400 km on the WLTP cycle.
The Super Hybrid, on the other hand, combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine with a 31.94 kWh LFP battery and can travel up to 183 km on the WLTP cycle in pure electric mode.
Forthing claims a total range of up to 1150 km when charged regularly.
The mid-sized SUV is roughly the size of the Toyota RAV4 and is 4600mm long, 1860mm wide and 1680mm high with a wheelbase of 2715mm. The Taikon Hybrid features an independent multi-link rear suspension, while the EV is equipped with a less demanding torsion beam rear.
Standard equipment across the New Zealand range includes a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, as well as a range of active safety and driver assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Forthing, part of Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor Co, a subsidiary of Dongfeng Motor Group, says the move marks the start of its foray into right-hand drive markets.
Forthing NZ general sales manager Todd Groves says the brand is targeting buyers looking for value without sacrificing features.
“Our job is to provide New Zealanders with competitive new choices that make sense for their lifestyles,” he said.
“The Forthing Taikon, with its compelling blend of design and outstanding value, does just that…delivering premium design, breakthrough technology and exceptional value to create real excitement in the market.”
The automaker, based in Liuzhou, China’s Guangxi province, has its roots in 1954 and is now shifting its focus to new energy vehicles as part of a broader global expansion strategy.
Forthing says the Taikon range will be supported by a nationwide dealer network in New Zealand, but details of locations and customer service are yet to be confirmed.
The company has not yet announced pricing for New Zealand, but has signaled it will position the Taikon as a competitive offering aimed at undercutting established rivals.
Full specifications, pricing and dealer details are expected closer to the April 17 on-sale date, when the first vehicles will also be available for immediate delivery.
Forthing’s confirmation of a New Zealand launch comes shortly after the Dongfeng brand’s debut across the ditch.
This also comes after Forthing received type approval in Australia last October for the Taikon, which is expected to carry the Friday nameplate. Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor Co. registered the trademark “Friday” last November.
Both electric and extended range electric versions of the Taikon/Friday are listed on the Australian Government type approval documents.
It is still unclear who will be responsible for distributing the brand in Australia.
