We should consider this new HEV SUV as the dawn of a new era. Not only has GWM recently introduced several strong contenders for the SUV and bakkie vehicle market, but the GWM Tank 300 HEV is in it for the win.
If the automotive industry was a boxing ring, then GWM just won the fight with their knockout blow by introducing a vehicle that is jam-packed with comfort and safety features, and now with HEV technology, this SUV offers the fuel efficiency of a tiny hatch freewheeling downhill with the wind in its proverbial sails.
Although the Tank has an aggressively robust appearance and all-terrain ability, this vehicle also offers rapid acceleration, comfort and impressive fuel efficiency, features that a tank artillery vehicle is not familiar with.
I have said it before, and I will say it again: GWM is rapidly becoming a market leader. I support this statement by referring to price point versus features as a value-for-money measurable metric, comparing the GWM TANK with its other South African SUV counterparts.
Over the course of a week, I test drove the head-turning flagship model, the GWM Tank 300 Super Luxury HEV 2,0-litre turbo-petrol. The best part of that time was the ridiculously low fuel consumption during my bumper-to-bumper commute. When you consider the impact that rocketing fuel prices have on any South African vehicle owner's pocket, the relief of the electric vehicle mode was magical!
Apart from the fuel consumption, the safety features made for a favourable and memorable drive.
This vehicle offers lane assist, a collision prevention programme along with a dashboard illustration of the visible and less visible vehicles surrounding the Tank.
SAFETY FIRST
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Understanding eye conditions in horses: causes and first aid
A horse can get a swollen eye from bumping it against a tree, shaking its head to keep flies away, or even snake venom
IPM requires a completely different mindset
You need to investigate any beneficial insects that may appear on your plants, or you can purchase them
Does parrot farming protect wild species?
Those in favour of commercial captive breeding argue that breeding parrots to sell can relieve pressure on wild populations. Researchers Neil D'Cruze and Rowan Martin review the evidence.
Bacterial and fungal diseases of garlic
Garlic can be prone to bacterial and fungal diseases, and it's important that farmers are proactive in preventing infection and practise appropriate management. Magda du Toit reports.
Responsible wastewater management: a crucial part of farming
The inadequate management of waste water is a challenge that the agriculture sector needs to deal with. Magda du Toit spoke to experts in waste and water management about a cost-effective treatment system.
Technology that can help protect South Africa's farms
Farm attacks, murders, livestock and crop theft, and other rural crimes are a growing concern in South Africa. As a result, more and more farmers are turning to advanced security technology to protect their lives, properties, and livelihoods. Sinenhlanhla Mncwango spoke to experts about the security strategies that producers can adopt to combat these threats.
The impact of theft on farms in South Africa
A high number of livestock are being stolen every year in South Africa. Insurance is expensive and farmers are battling to find solutions to the problem, says Dr Lindie von Maltitz, agricultural economics lecturer in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State.
Staying afloat amid the cost-price squeeze
John Hudson, head of agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the importance of environmental and social sustainability for a prosperous agriculture sector.
Free State has no reason to mark Transport Month
Free State Agriculture (FSA) is very concerned about the extremely poor state of rural paved and gravel roads in the province and has very little, if anything, to celebrate during Transport Month, which takes place every October.
SA's food system ‘vulnerable to climate change'
The Just Transition Agenda for Food System Policymaking in SA webinar, hosted by the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) in October, highlighted the role that South Africa’s food system plays in contributing to climate change and how vulnerable it is to the impact thereof.