Volvo EX30 Cross Country Becomes First Full EV to Ascend Sani Pass

A Volvo EX30 Cross Country has become the first full EV to ascend Sani Pass. The mountain road is a rite of passage for many South African off-road enthusiasts. In fact, people from around the world have learned about the treacherous terrain through the Drakensberg Mountains. As a result it has become something of a tourist attraction. The Volvo emulates a feat conducted earlier this year by a BYD Shark bakkie. Although the bakkie was driven up in EV mode, it does have an internal combustion engine for back-up. The Volvo is a pure battery electric vehicle, or BEV.

The ascent of Sani Pass by the EX30 Cross Country is a defining moment for electric mobility in 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 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
– Grant Locke, managing director, Volvo Cars SA

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Tricky Terrain

Sani Pass is the bridge between KwaZulu-Natal, on the South African side and Lesotho at the very peak. At its lowest point it’s an already heady 1 500 metres. The gravel track rises to almost 3 000 metres at its peak. It it characterised by loose surfaces, tight hairpins and sheer drop-offs. As a result, all-wheel-drive is highly recommended for a safe ascent.

The Volvo EX30 (which we reviewed here) serves as the base for the Cross Country version. The two derivatives are mechanically identical. As a result it has 315 kW delivered by two motors to all four wheels. The EX30 Cross Country was charged using a solar-powered EV charger, located just below Sani Pass at 1 566 metres. The unit is installed at Premier Resort Sani Pass, should you be thinking of heading that way.