NZ’s cheapest EV now even cheaper: Dongfeng Box discounted

The Dongfeng Box, one of New Zealand’s most affordably priced fully electric cars can now be had for less than a Kia Stonic. 

When it launched locally last November, the Dongfeng Box — the Chinese carmaker’s first model introduced to our market — was revealed with an MSRP of $32,990 and an introductory price of $29,990. 

The latter ensured that the Box would, at least temporarily, share the same base price as New Zealand’s other cheapest fully electric car, the BYD Atto 1. 

Now, the Box has an even cheaper price. The model is subject to a model year 2025 clearance sale, dropping the model’s pricing all the way down to $26,990 plus on-road costs. The clearance starts this month, and runs until May.

The Dongfeng box comes with a 6-year/200,000km vehicle warranty and an 8-year/200,000km traction battery warranty, with six years of roadside assist. These compelling packages are offered across the Dongfeng line-up, as the brand looks to establish itself in New Zealand. 

The Box is powered by a front-mounted electric motor producing 70kW of power and 160Nm of torque, paired to a 43.89kWh battery pack. Range is rated at 317km on the WLTP cycle, with the battery capable of charging speeds up to 60kW. 

Standard features include a 12-inch touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats, a power operated driver’s seat, wireless phone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, a 360-degree camera, ambient lighting, and adaptive cruise control. 

The Box even comes with automatic parking, multiple interior upholstery colour combinations, and front seats that can fold flush into the back seats — creating a lounge-like cabin space.

The Box’s safety has been an ongoing topic of discussion since the model launched. The NZTA recently clarified that the nameplate’s crash safety rating is ‘unrated’, a rare move for the agency. Locally sold Box models come with just two airbags, less than those sold in Europe.