By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Volvo has landed a new achievement in South Africa, becoming the first carmaker to send an electric vehicle (EV) to the top of Sani Pass.
Located in the Drakensburg Mountain range on the border between South Africa and Lesotho, Sani Pass is considered one of the nation’s most challenging mountain routes, and no EV has ever made it to the top, until now.
The first Volvo to conquer the route did so all the way back in 1969, and the automaker decided to repeat history 56 years later with an all-electric model.
The stated objective was to demonstrate that EVs are just as capable as their combustion engine counterparts, navigating steep gradients, hairpin bends, and rocky terrain.
Adding to the significance of this milestone is the installation of South Africa’s highest solar-powered EV charger, located just below Sani Pass at 1,566 metres. Installed for Volvo at Premier Resort Sani Pass by CHARGE, the unit enabled a fully solar-to-solar journey for the EX30 Cross Country. This initiative proves that exploring remote natural landscapes can be done sustainably, with clean energy supporting mobility in some of the country’s most iconic locations.
“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 VCSA. “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.”
Locke added that this historic journey also marks a moment to reflect on the evolution of exploration and innovation. “From the Willys Jeep ascents of the mid-20th century to endurance tests and modern performance trials, Sani Pass has always been a stage for determination and ingenuity. The EX30 Cross Country now joins this line of milestones, demonstrating that electric power can deliver both capability and sustainability, bridging decades of motoring history while paving the way for a cleaner, more adventurous future.
Looking ahead, “CHARGE is proud to have partnered with Volvo and the Premier Hotels & Resorts for this momentous occasion, driving sustainability as we migrate to NEVs. The solar-powered charger at Premier Resort Sani Pass will be upgraded in Q2 of 2026 with battery backup capabilities to allow for overnight charging, and therefore enhancing its capabilities even further,” commented Joubert Roux, Founder of CHARGE.
Volvo’s ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and expanding the possibilities of adventure continues to open new horizons for drivers, proving that owning an EV does not limit exploration—it redefines it.
Exclusively available in a range-topping Ultra specification, the Cross Country is the flagship of the EX30 series, clocking in at R1,165 000.