NEW Zealand’s biggest vehicle retail group Armstrong’s will distribute Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) commercial vehicles after signing a partnership in Nanchang, China this week.

The distribution, through Armstrong’s Auto Distribution Holdings Ltd (ADHL) business, covers JMC utes, buses and vans and makes NZ the 111th export market for JMC.

ADH also represents other Chinese manufacturers in NZ, including Dong Feng, Smart, BAIC and Leapmotor.

JMC Armstrong’s Distributor Agreement signing ceremony

The distribution is not related to the Australian distribution of JMC by JMC Motor Australia which started in January and is headed by Danny Lenartic. Mr Lenartic said dealers were being vetted now to form a national network and that sales would focus on JMC utes.

Armstrong’s founder and executive director Rick Armstrong said in a statement that: “JMC has strong appeal to Armstrong’s as we have identified a clear opportunity in the market for affordable, durable and capable commercial vehicles suited to the evolving needs of New Zealand drivers and businesses”.

“Together, we see an exciting opportunity to introduce a fresh new range of commercial vehicles to the New Zealand market, including utes, vans and buses tailored to the evolving needs of Kiwi businesses and drivers.

Armstrong’s founder and executive director Rick Armstrong

“This partnership reflects Armstrong’s continued commitment to growing a portfolio of world-class automotive brands while delivering accessible, practical and innovative mobility solutions for New Zealand customers.

“We’re proud to be working alongside JMC and look forward to sharing more details on the New Zealand lineup and launch plans in the coming months.”

Mr Armstrong said JMC’s portfolio would complement existing brands managed by ADHL and strengthen its dealer operations.

JMC started vehicle manufacturing in 1968 and has since established partnerships with Ford and Isuzu. Ford engines are used in JMC utes and Isuzu diesels are fitted to the JMC trucks.

It also works with suppliers including Bosch, Continental, Denso and ZF.

New Zealand has become JMC’s 111th export market, joining recently added markets including South Africa and Australia.

The president of JMIE (JMC’s export agency), Sun Xiaoquan, said New Zealand was recognised as a highly competitive market.

“We are confident our all-new models will resonate with drivers who demand capable products that can support both commercial and lifestyle needs,” he said.

ADHL executive Simon Rutherford

ADHL executive Simon Rutherford, a former Ford NZ managing director, said research into JMC revealed a brand building a trusted global reputation and that it represented a “compelling proposition” to motorists.

“JMC vehicles combine strong real-world capability with highly competitive pricing, creating a compelling proposition for New Zealand customers,” Mr Rutherford said in a statement.

“The vehicles feature robust construction which makes them incredibly durable and feedback from users in existing markets is that drivers appreciate the peace of mind knowing their vehicle can handle more than a bit of the rough stuff if required.”

The first models are planned for launch in New Zealand in the third quarter of 2026 with the Vigus dual-cab ute expected to be the first model available.

This model, which has a Ford 3.3-litre turbo-diesel engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, has already attained Australian Design Rules (ADR) compliance.