Overberg hills become a showcase for electric mobility as Hermanus residents experience the silent power of top EVs
EVnow recently hosted its first all-electric vehicle ‘tasting’ through the scenic Overberg region of the Western Cape, showcasing the capabilities and appeal of battery-electric vehicles to influential professionals and entrepreneurs.
The event, supported by Mercedes-Benz South Africa, Volvo Cars South Africa, and BMW & MINI Cape Town City, featured a diverse fleet of fully electric vehicles including the MINI Cooper, BMW i5, BMW iX, Volvo XC40 EV, and Volvo EX30. The Mercedes-Benz G580 EQ, also in attendance, displayed its amazing off-roading prowess and on Honingklip 4×4’s challenging track.
“What we witnessed on Sunday was exactly what we had hoped for,” says Justus Visagie, of EVnow. “Once people experience the silent, exhilarating power of being in an EV, a switch is usually thrown in their heads. Our guests – accomplished professionals and entrepreneurs – saw firsthand that electric vehicles aren’t just environmentally responsible choices; they offer superior driving experiences too.”
The excursion demonstrated the practical range capabilities of modern electric vehicles, with participants visiting multiple points of interest including Beaumont Family Wines and navigating challenging off-road terrain without requiring any charging during the event. “For once, the designated drivers had more fun!” Visagie says.
“Many still harbour misconceptions about electric vehicles’ capabilities and convenience,” Visagie added. “Getting ‘bums on seats’ is proving to be the most effective way to change perceptions. By the end of our journey, several participants were discussing their plans to switch to electric for their next vehicle purchase. I’m hoping they don’t get cold feet, but follow through,” he mused.
Following this debut event, EVnow held “EVs on Display,” at Hermanus High School, with free entry for the public and a prize-giving for Overberg school learners who had entered an EVnow competition.