Few attempts...but sometimes I struggle with focus after it gets dark especially on cars. I just got a D700 and Sigma 24-70 F2.8 but before that it was a Canon 70D and Sigma 2.8.
I try and find the brightest part or a good contrast edge to focus at night. In my camera (D3300), only the centre focus point is usable in low light, so I compose with that in mind.
While it won't work in every situation, I would suggest you carry a powerful flashlight with you so you can illuminate your subject just long enough to get a focus-lock. Once you have focus, obviously you don't need the flash light any more. Turn off auto-focus and take your shot. ....