SAIC Motor takes over MG in New Zealand
Chinese manufacturing giant takes a factory-backed approach to its MG-branded models in NZ, which will also see the MG3 auto and ZS introduced to the market.
SAIC Motor has announced it will be taking over the distribution of its MG subsidiary in New Zealand from British Motor Distributors.
As part of the move, the company will introduce the MG3 automatic hatchback and ZS crossover to the New Zealand market later this year, joining the existing MG6 Plus, MG3 manual and GS SUV.
"In studying the market in depth, we see New Zealand as the perfect fit for MG; as a global brand, MG has evolved to today stand for great value, impressive design, and high-quality manufacture and we anticipate it will appeal to New Zealand customers," said Peter Cao, CEO for SAIC Motor Australia & New Zealand.
"The MG marque is going through a powerful transition – I would like to thank John Fairhall and British Motor Distributors for their professionalism and stewardship of the brand in recent years."
MG Motor will appoint Auckland-based Anthony MacLean to the role of business manager for New Zealand, who will work alongside marketing director, Danny Lenartic, and product planning manager, Pavel Meck, in the company's regional team.
"Anthony brings with him a wealth of experience, and will work to expand our dealer network. We have a strong focus on building trust, and creating jobs in the local market, engaging experienced, enthusiastic retail partners to represent MG in New Zealand," Cao said of MacLean's appointment.
SAIC Motor's expansion into New Zealand comes off the back of a successful year of growth in Australia, which saw sales increased by 401 per cent year-on-year in 2018.
Furthermore, there are now 29 dealerships across Australia, up from the 10-strong network it had in November 2017.
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