gjm

If it's the one I heard about, it truly was a terrible example.

I've been an IT (Information Technology, Information Systems, Information Management) Manager for longer than I really care to recall. Biggest issue is that we want to buy property, and need a mortgage for that. And that typically requires a permanent job, or at least a fairly extensive history of maintaining income.

Interesting discovery about the F20 116i. Little turbo engine - puts out 136hp. Replace the air filter, replace the exhaust, remap.. - Over 250hp. 😮 Allegedly.

It has been truly incredible to not have been to work - that place of work - recently. I'm sleeping better, starting to feel more positive, and generally on what I sincerely hope is an 'up'. I'm now running the gauntlet of the employment industry. Lack of reply, fob offs, preconceived ideas... But I have massively expanded my horizons via a dramatic reduction in salary requirement, which lends a greater focus to working more locally. More time for me and us. It's amazing the things you can do differently when throwing money at it isn't an option! Sure, fun projects and the like will have to take a back seat, but other ideas and plans come out of the new situation. Just need to find that new source of income...

Any fundamental change in embedded culture will cause waves. It'll upset the economic balance of those wo enjoy the culture, and repercussions will spread into areas where there'd typically be less interest. The NZ government is just along for the ride, and hopefully making the best of a situation they have no control over. The US government or the EU might hold some sway, but frankly the combined might of the fossil fuel companies (let's not kid ourselves - they'll own patents on most alternatives) and the motor manufacturers, especially in China, will decide what the future will bring. There'll be lip service to existing situations, but if it doesn't fit the roadmap, there's little chance of the course being changed.

Yup - looks like dealer asking prices are rising. Any benefit from the govt is likely to be swallowed by that.

It's incredibly unlikely that any legislation will retrospectively require fitment of additional, non-standard equipment. It could require that any stock kit is fitted - EGRs, DPFs, cats, etc. The majority of older cars on the road are just that - older cars. Not of any intrinsic, historic or interest value. Normal attrition will see them leave the roads in time. Older vehicles may become subject to a different licensing, WoF (CoF), or similar requirement, but not one that will require significant change.

It's growing on the cars...

I know where there is at least one more... I'll ask for some pics.

Alpina Z8.

Advert blurb copy'n'pasted from the Car and Driver review! No sense reinventing the wheel, I guess... Regardless of the suitability of such a lump in a so-called offroader (SUV tax, anyone? ) it is hugely impressive.

Total Body Shop in Hastings also sell this - looks the the same product. Probably slightly more expensive, but hopefully delivery times are shorter! They list on TradeMe. For example - https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/motors/car-parts-accessories/interior/other/listing/3149649252