Words: Autocar
Published 27 February 2026
Armstrong Distribution Group CEO Simon Rutherford has confirmed EV brand ArcFox will be next to land in New Zealand
It is estimated to either launch near the end of 2026, or into Q1 next year.
Speaking at the BAIC launch in Auckland, Rutherford said ArcFox has already been built into dealer and distribution planning as a straightforward addition alongside the newly launched BAIC operation.
“We could go anywhere between the end of this year and early next year,” he said. “What we’re trying to do is establish BAIC first.”
ArcFox will arrive with pure electric and electric range-extender powertrains, contrasting with BAIC’s hybrid and ICE launch strategy.
Rutherford said the staggered approach reflects both market realities and the need to balance Armstrong’s growing roster of Chinese brands.
His preference is to launch ArcFox with two models simultaneously, which would push timing to Q2 next year. A single-model launch could see three nameplates in the BAIC-ArcFox stable by year’s end.
While Rutherford didn’t specify which ArcFox models are in the frame, the brand’s current lineup offers several candidates.
The Alpha T5 mid-size SUV, now available in both electric and range-extender form, looks the most likely starter given its alignment with New Zealand buying preferences.
The T5 measures 4,760 mm long on a 2,845 mm wheelbase, with BEV variants offering CATL-supplied battery options of 64.8, 74.4, and 79.2 kWh for CLTC ranges of 560, 660, and 705 km respectively.
The range-extender version pairs a 1.5-litre generator with a 27.4 kWh battery for 215 km of electric range and a combined total of 1,215 km.
All versions produce 200 kW and 360 Nm, with the REEV managing 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds. It sits on an 800V platform supporting fast charging from 30 to 80 percent in 15 minutes.
The Alpha S5 sedan, also built on an 800V architecture, could round out a two-model launch.
