New Zealanders are now scrambling to buy electric cars against the backdrop of the tense situation in the Middle East and the global economy being impacted by fuel prices. According to StatsNZ data, in the year ending June 30, emissions reduction vehicle imports increased 33%, which is more than double the rate of internal combustion engine vehicle imports. Data shows that hybrid vehicles currently account for nearly one-third of all passenger car imports, while China is a major exporter of all-electric vehicles.

New Zealanders are now scrambling to buy electric cars against the backdrop of the tense situation in the Middle East and the global economy being impacted by fuel prices. According to StatsNZ data, in the year ending June 30, emissions reduction vehicle imports increased 33%, which is more than double the rate of internal combustion engine vehicle imports. Data shows that hybrid vehicles currently account for nearly one-third of all passenger car imports, while China is a major exporter of all-electric vehicles.