- Arcfox is BAIC's premium brand.
- First deliveries of T1 crossover likely in July.
- BEV only, complementing BAIC hybrids.
Kiwi company Auto Distribution Holdings Limited (ADHL) has confirmed what it already kind of confirmed at the launch of the BAIC brand back in February: the Arcfox brand will join its New Zealand portfolio next month.
ADHL is an arm of Armstrong's Group, which already includes a number of Chinese brands: Dongfeng, Leapmotor, Smart... and of course BAIC. Arcfox is BAIC's premium sub-brand, which "complements the BAIC branded vehicles with a BEV-focused offering" says ADHL.
BAIC models currently sold in NZ are either non-plug-in hybrid (B30 SUV) or ICE (entry-level B30, X55).
Arcfox was launched in 2017 and is focused on technology.
“As BAIC’s premium, technology-driven EV brand and we know it will have distinctive appeal for our customers, offering stylish exterior designs alongside comfortable and spacious interiors and advanced operating systems that deliver a premium experience in the heart of the electric vehicle market” says Simon Rutherford, CEO of ADHL.
“We are working very closely with Arcfox to expedite launch stock to NZ so we can do our part to help Kiwis manage through this unprecedented period of petrol pump pain, whilst reducing the amount of tailpipe emissions from the country’s new vehicle fleet.”
The first of the brand’s new arrivals is the Arcfox T1, a small to mid-size crossover-style SUV with an urban focus. Range is around 300km.
“The T1 could be considered as a crossover, sitting in the sweet spot between car and SUV, complemented by a raised ride height," says Shiguang Guo, general manager for Arcfox NZ.
“It also represents a strong value proposition, with a limited-time launch price of $34,990, which is $2,000 below the recommended retail price." The offer is available until July 31.
The Arcfox T1 comes with a six-year/ 200,000km warranty and is available to order now via the brand's website. AHDL says other Arcfox models will follow soon.