Meet the 3 finalists in the Electric Vehicle category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa. The winner of this #CarsAwards category will be announced on 29 February 2024.
The 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa is the 7th iteration of SA’s definitive consumer-driven automotive awards programme that aims to identify the best new vehicles on sale in Mzansi across 13 categories.
Judges first compiled a list of 65 semi-finalists – then trimmed it to 39 finalists. Following that, all #CarsAwards finalist vehicles were subjected to a rigorous 2-day test at Gerotek at the beginning of November 2023, after which they starred in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Roadshow at the Mall of Africa where, for the first time, the public could experience the cars – and meet the judges – in the flesh.
See the complete list: 2023/24 CarsAwards – The 39 finalists
Read more about the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards
The Electric Vehicle category
Electric vehicles (EVs) are considered as future mobility solutions in an evolving motoring landscape. While they are expensive in our market, due to high material costs and additional taxes levied by the Government, demand for these types of vehicles is increasing gradually. Plus, as brands increase the number of EVs in their line-ups, consumers have an ever-growing number of models to choose from.
We are looking for the best value EVs in this segment, with enough range to confidently complete the average daily commute, while providing a blend of modern design, interior practicality, adequate performance and up-to-date tech and connectivity features.
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price below R1 300 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023). Eligible vehicles must be all-electric (which is to say battery-electric vehicles) and offer a minimum range of 300 km when fully charged. This category excludes hybrids and plug-in EVs.
Pillars of success for this category include power and range, luxury and technology, value for money, design and quality appeal.
Best Electric Cars: CarsAwards Finalists
BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport
Like most legacy premium brands, BMW offers a blend of internal-combustion engine-based models, which are adapted to utilise all-electric drivetrains, and all-electric cars built on dedicated EV platforms.
The Munich-based brand has family-friendly SUVs and performance sedans in its electric vehicle line-up, but the iX1 appears to be the “Goldilocks model” for an all-electric raised-body city slicker. It’s competitively priced, boasts impressive levels of tech and its range is adequate for the daily commute. BMW SA has an extensive dealership footprint as well as a reputation for strong after-sales support.
Find a BMW X1 for sale on Cars.co.za
GWM Ora 300 Super Luxury
Chinese brand Ora (which, like Haval, is a sub-brand of Great Wall Motor) has the title of SA’s most affordable electric car with its cute-looking 300 (which is named the Cat in other markets). Photos don’t do it justice – it’s actually a larger vehicle than it looks, and can easily accommodate four adults.
The claimed range and performance figures are good, plus the standard specification and build quality are impressive for a vehicle at this price point. Who said electric cars all have to cost over R1 million?
Read an international launch review of the Ora 03
Volvo XC40 Twin Motor Ultimate
Volvo is forging ahead with its electric-car strategy (it plans to offer only EVs by 2030) and its line-up of battery-electric compact SUVs – including the C40- and XC40 Recharge derivatives are very impressive.
With the Twin Motor setup, the XC40 Recharge is one of the quickest offerings in Volvo’s line-up and its claimed range (500 km) is admirable, considering its punchy performance. Inside, you get that typically classy cabin that looks and feels premium, and let’s not forget Volvo’s stellar safety credentials either.
Read a review of the Volvo XC40 Recharge
Find a Volvo XC40 for sale on Cars.co.za
More about the #CarsAwards
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) will be named on 29 February 2024.
Follow the #CarsAwards on Cars.co.za, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.
