Swede EMOTION

Packing SUV benefits into a svelte, all-electric package, Volvo's C40 Recharge is the embodiment of style and sustainability

- NONTANDO MPOSO

I AM A BIG FAN OF VOLVO'S CARS because of their Swedish minimalist design, safety features and technology. So, when I received an invitation to test drive the new Volvo C40 Recharge, their second pure electric car on our market, I accepted. The newcomer's exterior is sleek, compact and is available in a choice of 9 colours, such as Crystal white, Onyx Black (my favourite colour), Fusion Red and Fjord Blue.

Offering many SUV benefits but with a lower and sleeker design, the C40 Recharge is based on the CMA platform and is designed from the ground up as a pure electric vehicle. The low roofline and distinctive rear-end design contribute to the C40 Recharge's aerodynamic shape, allowing it to travel further with each charge. It also offers the high seating position most Volvo SUV drivers prefer. My drive began at the Cape Town International airport, and headed out to the picturesque and sustainability focused Ludus Magnus in Franschhoek. As it was my first time driving a pure electric car, I was pleasantly surprised by how refined and quiet the powerplant is. It's like driving inside a cloud or bubble...simply floating on the road.

Volvo Car South Africa managing director, Greg Maruszewski, believes the C40 Recharge will prove popular with local buyers who are increasingly considering fully electric vehicles.