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History Made as Volvo EX30 Cross Country Conquers Sani Pass

Record-breaking mountain ascent as first electric car tackles SA’s legendary route

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Volvo EX30 Cross Country climbing Sani Pass

In a defining moment for electric mobility, Volvo Car South Africa has made history. The Volvo EX30 Cross Country has become the first fully electric vehicle (BEV) to conquer Sani Pass, South Africa’s most legendary and demanding mountain route.

Fifty-six years after the first Volvo made the climb in 1969, the all-electric EX30 Cross Country has rewritten the record books—proving that EVs are more than ready to meet the country’s toughest terrain.

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Electric vehicles can tackle the most challenging terrain, and clean, sustainable energy can power adventure in even the most remote and rugged locations.

Powering Progress: The First Solar-to-Solar Ascent

This achievement goes beyond just the vehicle. The climb was powered by South Africa’s highest solar-powered EV charger, installed by CHARGE at Premier Resort Sani Pass.

Located at 1,566 metres above sea level, the unit enabled a fully solar-to-solar journey, symbolising the fusion of clean energy and pioneering engineering.

“The ascent of Sani Pass by the EX30 Cross Country is a defining moment for electric mobility in South Africa,” said Grant Locke, Managing Director of Volvo Car South Africa. “It demonstrates that electric vehicles can tackle the most challenging terrain, and that clean, sustainable energy can power adventure in even the most remote and rugged locations.”

From 1969 to Today: A Legacy Reimagined

Sani Pass has always been a proving ground for endurance, ingenuity, and engineering excellence. Decades ago, it tested early 4x4s and marked the site of the first Volvo ascent. Today, the EX30 Cross Country—compact yet formidable—completes the same climb with zero emissions, bridging decades of automotive evolution.

With 315 kW of power, the EX30 Cross Country tackled steep gradients, rocky trails, and sharp switchbacks with unwavering control, underscoring that electric adventure is not only possible—it’s powerful.

Sustainable Exploration Redefined

The Sani Pass ascent also marks a shift in how we think about exploration. With the solar-powered charging point supporting Volvo’s journey, this event proves that eco-conscious travel and adventure can coexist.

“From the Willys Jeep ascents of the mid-20th century to modern performance trials, Sani Pass has always been a stage for determination and ingenuity,” Locke added. “The EX30 Cross Country now joins this legacy, showing that electric power can deliver both capability and sustainability.”

Charging Toward the Future

CHARGE, the company behind the historic charger installation, has confirmed plans to upgrade the unit with battery backup in 2026, enabling overnight charging and further expanding access to sustainable travel in remote regions.

“We’re proud to have partnered with Volvo and Premier Hotels & Resorts for this momentous occasion,” said Joubert Roux, Founder of CHARGE. “This is more than a milestone—it’s a movement toward a future where adventure and sustainability drive side by side.”

With this historic climb, Volvo has proven that electric mobility is not limited by boundaries—it redefines them. The EX30 Cross Country’s success on Sani Pass signals a bold new era for both explorers and environmentalists, where innovation meets endurance on the open road.

www.volvocars.com
@volvocarsa
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