Antonella Abbate • 13 January 2025

Xpeng Trueev Australia

In May 2024, a ground-breaking announcement was made as XPENG, a global leader in smart electric vehicles, declared its expansion into the Australian market. Partnering with TrueEV as its exclusive distributor, the move signaled a new chapter in the company's ambitious journey to redefine mobility and offer sustainable, cutting-edge solutions to drivers worldwide. Now, after the close of 2024, this partnership reaches an exciting milestone with the official launch of the XPENG brand in Australia and the grand opening of its Sydney flagship experience centre.

XPENG's Vision: A New Era for Electric Vehicles

XPENG, renowned for its innovation-driven approach and forward-thinking vision, has quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the global EV market. From advanced autonomous driving capabilities to state-of-the-art connectivity and eco-friendly designs, XPENG's vehicles are designed for the future. The decision to enter the Australian market was not just strategic but also a testament to the country’s growing appetite for electric vehicles and sustainable technologies.


The Role of TrueEV: A Trusted Partner

TrueEV, with its deep understanding of the Australian automotive landscape, was the natural choice for XPENG’s expansion. The company’s expertise in EV distribution, marketing, and customer service aligns seamlessly with XPENG’s commitment to quality and innovation. By appointing TrueEV as its exclusive partner, XPENG ensures that Australian customers will receive a premium experience that reflects the brand’s global standards.


The Sydney Flagship Experience Centre: A Gateway to the Future

The launch of XPENG’s Sydney flagship experience centre marks a pivotal moment in this partnership. Situated in a prime location, the centre is designed to provide customers with an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional car showrooms. Visitors can explore XPENG’s lineup of electric vehicles, interact with advanced technologies, and gain insights into the brand’s vision for the future of mobility.


The centre features interactive displays, virtual reality experiences, and personalized consultations, offering a hands-on opportunity to discover the unique features and benefits of XPENG vehicles. From the sleek P7 sedan to the versatile G9 SUV, customers can witness firsthand the cutting-edge design and engineering that set XPENG apart.


Addressing Australia’s EV Transition

Australia’s transition to electric vehicles has been steadily gaining momentum, driven by government initiatives, increasing consumer awareness, and advancements in EV infrastructure. The introduction of XPENG to the market adds a new dimension to this transition, offering Australian drivers access to high-performance, technologically advanced, and competitively priced electric vehicles.


XPENG’s entry is expected to stimulate further growth in the EV sector, encouraging competition and innovation. With TrueEV’s local expertise, the brand is well-positioned to address the unique challenges and opportunities of the Australian market, from navigating regulatory landscapes to meeting consumer expectations for sustainability and affordability.


Beyond Sydney: Expanding the Footprint

While the Sydney flagship experience centre is a significant milestone, it’s only the beginning of XPENG’s journey in Australia. Plans are already underway to expand the brand’s presence across major cities, ensuring that more Australians have access to its revolutionary vehicles and services. This includes the establishment of additional experience centres, partnerships with charging networks, and initiatives to promote EV education and adoption.


A Shared Commitment to Sustainability

At the heart of XPENG and TrueEV’s partnership is a shared commitment to sustainability. By introducing cutting-edge EV technology to Australia, the collaboration aims to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a greener future. This aligns with XPENG’s broader mission to accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation on a global scale.


Looking Ahead

The official launch of XPENG in Australia and the opening of the Sydney flagship experience centre represent more than just a business expansion; they symbolize the beginning of a new chapter in the country’s journey toward sustainable mobility. With TrueEV’s support and XPENG’s visionary leadership, Australian drivers can look forward to a future where innovation meets sustainability, and driving becomes a truly transformative experience.



As XPENG and TrueEV continue to pave the way for a smarter, greener future, the Australian automotive landscape is set to undergo a significant transformation. The road ahead is filled with possibilities, and the journey has only just begun.

by Antonella Abbate 10 July 2026
Tickets are now on sale for Wire & Gas 2026, with VASA and The Automotive Technician (TaT) confirming a full three-day programme at The Westin Brisbane from 31 July to 2 August. The event, co-hosted for the first time by both organisations under the theme ‘Better Together’, brings together automotive air-conditioning technicians, auto electricians and thermal management specialists from across Australia and New Zealand for training, networking and industry updates. VASA and TaT members can register for $995 + GST, with non-member tickets priced at $1,195 + GST. A Social Pass covering the Friday cocktail party and trade show plus the Saturday Gala Awards Dinner is available for $349 + GST. Non-members have the option to purchase discounted VASA or TaT membership at registration to unlock member pricing and ongoing benefits. VASA President Brett Meads said the TaT partnership had raised the bar for what Wire & Gas could deliver. “TaT and VASA have a long history of collaboration and share a common goal: supporting automotive technicians and workshop owners to build their skills and grow their businesses,” Mr Meads said. “By combining our networks and expertise, we can deliver a bigger, better Wire & Gas with high-quality training, new topics and more opportunities for technicians to connect with their peers and industry partners. “This is what ‘Better Together’ is all about.” Programme at a glance Friday 31 July: Opening Night The event opens with a cocktail party and trade show, followed by a panel discussion marking the launch of the updated Australian Automotive Air Conditioning Code of Practice. Panellists include Kylie Farrelley (Refrigerant Reclaim Australia), Dr Greg Picker (Refrigerants Australia / Australian Refrigeration Council), Lesley Yates (AAAA) and Jeff Smit (TaT). Saturday 1 August: Technical Training The full-day technical programme features four in-depth 1.5-hour sessions, with a trade show running during morning tea and lunch: ● Clint Flower: Diagnosing modern automotive HVAC systems ● Clinton Brett: AdBlue (SCR) emissions-control technology for diesel vehicles ● Brendan Sorensen: 48V to BEV: Electrified Diagnostic Triage Framework ● Scott Thomas: Vehicle Security Systems: A Workshop Guide The Saturday evening Gala Awards Dinner will feature live acoustic music, the REDARC Young Technician of the Year Award, the VASA Grant Hand Industry Mentor Award, the VASA Pioneer Award and a race sim champion and trade show prize draw. More awards are to be announced. Sunday 2 August: Seminars The closing half-day covers business and industry topics, with sessions from Lesley Yates on best practices and industry cohesion, Jeff Smit on the EV and hybrid market from an aftermarket perspective, a refrigerant and regulation panel with Kylie Farrelley and Dr Greg Picker, and Geoff Mutton on enhancing workshop productivity. TaT co-founder Jeff Smit said the programme reflected the combined training strengths of both organisations. “Wire & Gas has established itself as the must-attend event for the auto electrical and air-conditioning trades, and we’re thrilled to be joining forces with VASA to take it to the next level,” Mr Smit said. “TaT will be bringing our training expertise, presenter network and broad membership base to the table, with a focus on delivering practical, hands-on sessions that attendees can take straight back to the workshop. “We’re looking forward to welcoming both VASA and TaT members, and the broader industry, to Brisbane in July.” Accommodation VASA has negotiated special room rates for Wire & Gas attendees at The Westin Brisbane at $325 per night (room only, super king or twin) and the adjoining Four Points by Sheraton at $225 per night (room only, king or twin). Optional extras include breakfast ($30 per person at The Westin; $25 at Four Points), a rollaway bed for $80 per night, and valet parking at $60 per vehicle per day. All accommodation prices include GST. Discounted rates are valid for three days before and after the event, subject to availability. Cool Mavericks book signing Authors Mark Mitchell and Ken Newton will be signing copies of Cool Mavericks, which traces the evolution of automotive air-conditioning and the pioneers who shaped it. Books will also be available for purchase or collection at the event. Sponsors and exhibitors With the combined reach of the VASA and TaT networks, sponsorship and exhibition opportunities are expected to fill quickly. Organisations wanting to connect with the calibre of automotive repair professionals Wire & Gas is known for attracting should contact Jill Johnson at jj@jkjmedia.com.au or on 0409 217 624. Tickets and accommodation can be booked at WireAndGas.com
by Antonella Abbate 8 July 2026
The Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers (IAME) wishes to advise members and industry partners that Mr Peter Blanshard is no longer employed by the IAME , effective 7 July 2026 . The Board wishes to extend its best wishes to him for the future. The Board has enacted transition arrangements to ensure continuity across all operational areas, including member services, supplier and industry partnerships, RTO operations, and government engagement. Redirecting Communications To ensure enquiries are directed appropriately and responded to promptly, members and stakeholders are asked to redirect any communication previously addressed to the CEO to the following contact: IAME Auburn Office (NSW) unit 5, 340 Chisholm Road Auburn NSW 2144 Phone: (02) 9782 1100 Email: inbox@iame.com.au The IAME Board appreciates the cooperation and understanding of our members during this period of transition. We remain committed to delivering strong industry leadership and high‑quality support across the automotive and training sectors. Kind regards, The IAME Board
by Antonella Abbate 8 July 2026
By Dean Rothapfel - Oceania Country Manager  Motul Asia Pacific