
Dongfeng Box receives a safety upgrade with six airbags and maintains the NZ$29,990 price tag; see the impacts on inventory, MY26, and EV demand in NZ.
Safety in focus: Box receives six airbags
The Dongfeng Box, the country's most affordable urban electric vehicle, has received a safety update that increases the total number of airbags from 2 to 6. The configuration includes front airbags (driver and passenger), two front side airbags, and two front/rear curtain airbags.
Price, inventory, and availability
The launch, priced at NZ$29,990 on-road, starts today and runs until the end of May; after this period, the price will rise to NZ$32,990 on-road. The NZ$26,990 price, originally anticipated for the model, was not applied; demonstrators continue to be sold at a discount.
Market performance
In March, Armstrong Distribution Limited (ADL), operated by Rick Armstrong, registered 336 BEVs, with the Box accounting for 260 units, consolidating the Box as a key piece of EV growth in the country.
New MY26 and features
- Integrated Apple CarPlay
- Three driving profiles
- New Electric Green paint with white roof
The update has not yet granted the Box an ANCAP rating, and official testing may only occur if Dongfeng decides to export the vehicle to Australia.
Next steps and availability
ADL has signaled increased stock to accelerate deliveries and has already received the first pre-orders for the MY26 Box, with faster delivery for Kiwi drivers.
In addition to the Box, Dongfeng markets the medium SUV Vigo and the high-performance 007 coupe, with operations in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, and Christchurch.
Conclusion: the increase in airbags reinforces the Box's value proposition without altering the price, maintaining its urban appeal, technology, and range for EV buyers.
Participate: what do you think of this safety update? Do you think six airbags change the value perception of the Box? Leave your comment below.






