Chinese Electric SUV Brand Nears Australian Launch After Successful Debut in New Zealand

New Chinese Brand Forthing Set to Launch SUV Range in New Zealand

A new Chinese automotive brand, Forthing, is preparing to make its entry into the New Zealand market next month, with plans to introduce a mid-size SUV range in April. The brand has also hinted at a potential launch in Australia in the near future.

The centerpiece of Forthing’s debut in New Zealand is the Forthing Taikon, a coupe-style SUV that will be available in both plug-in hybrid and full electric versions. Positioned as a value-oriented option in a competitive segment, the Taikon will come in two trim levels – Luxury and Exclusive, with pricing and detailed specifications yet to be disclosed.

Forthing’s electric version of the Taikon boasts a 150kW electric motor and a 64.4kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, offering a driving range of 350-400km on the WLTP cycle. On the other hand, the Super Hybrid variant combines a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a 31.94kWh LFP battery, capable of running in EV mode for up to 183km on the WLTP cycle. Forthing claims a total driving range of up to 1150km with regular charging.

Measuring 4600mm in length, 1860mm in width, and 1680mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2715mm, the Forthing Taikon is similar in size to the Toyota RAV4. The Taikon Hybrid features multi-link independent rear suspension, while the EV model utilizes a torsion beam rear suspension.

Standard features across the New Zealand lineup include a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, and a suite of advanced safety and driver assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Forthing, a subsidiary of Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor Co under Dongfeng Motor Group, sees its New Zealand launch as the beginning of its expansion into right-hand drive markets. Todd Groves, Forthing NZ’s general sales manager, emphasizes the brand’s commitment to offering value without compromising on features, stating that the Forthing Taikon delivers premium design, innovative technology, and exceptional value to cater to the needs of New Zealand consumers.

Based in Liuzhou, China, Forthing, with roots dating back to 1954, is pivoting towards new energy vehicles as part of its global growth strategy. The company plans to establish a comprehensive dealer network in New Zealand to support the Taikon range, although specific details regarding locations and aftersales services are yet to be finalized.

Pricing information for the New Zealand market has not been disclosed by Forthing, but the company aims to position the Taikon competitively against established rivals, offering a compelling value proposition. Full specifications, pricing details, and dealership information are expected to be revealed closer to the April 17 launch date, with immediate delivery of the first vehicles.

Forthing’s announcement of its New Zealand debut follows shortly after the brand’s introduction in Australia by Dongfeng. Furthermore, Forthing received type approval in Australia last October for the Taikon, likely to be marketed under the Friday nameplate. Both electric and extended-range electric versions of the Taikon/Friday have been mentioned in Australian Government type approval documents, although details regarding distribution in Australia remain unclear.