GWM
On the offensive
If you didn't take GWM seriously before, perhaps now is the
time to review that decision. The Chinese are looking to introduce seven new
models over the next year. On the stand at JIMS were five of those, including
the company's first four-door sedans launched locally in the C30 and C50. In
addition to that, showgoers saw the next-generation Steed bakkie, pitched as a
lifestyle double cab option that will be sold alongside the current Steed 5.
Down the line, we'll get the H6 SUV replacing the H5, and the striking M4 fwd
crossover, due early next year, at a price well under $19,000.
Much was made of the compact C30 sedan's massive boot (510
liters); alongside was the bigger C50 sedan, powered by a 1,5-liter
turbocharged petrol engine.
If you didn't take
GWM seriously before, perhaps now is the time to review that decision
Nissan Leaf
Charged up
Now into its second generation, the Leaf has finally made it
on the South African market after a drawn-out wait in expectation of electric
vehicle infrastructure. On sale at selected dealers starting in the Highveld,
South Africa's first full EV costs around $42,775. The home charger supplied as
standard recharges the car in about seven hours; charging can also be done at
one of the free quick-charging points at some Gauteng-based Nissan dealers.
Cape Town and Durban infrastructure will follow in 2014.
The 5-seat LEAF, a standard-sized compact hatchback, has
sold more than 80 000 globally. According to Nissan, although significantly
more expensive than similar-size cars, it has an overall cost of ownership
that's competitive. How's that? Apparently, electricity's price advantage over
liquid fuel, plus the LEAF's ability to optimize and regenerate power, savings
of close to 90 per cent over petrol, diesel or hybrid are possible at the Reef,
driving an average of 2,500 km a month. Over six years, the Nissan is said to
provide a cost-effective alternative to petrol, diesel or hybrid competitors.
Of course, the car comes fully loaded with all the bells and whistles -
including a rather important Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) system to warn
people of the almost inaudible approach of the LEAF. Incidentally, up to 99 per
cent of the Nissan LEAF is recyclable, and more than 60 per cent of plastics
used in its interior are made from recycled materials.
Nissan Leaf
Our electric future
Besides being highlighted on the Nissan stand for the second
consecutive JIMS, the LEAF also raised its profile by acting as shuttles within
the showgrounds.
Addressing the infrastructure issue and the importance of
greener cars, trade and industry minister Rob Davies said at the official
opening of JIMS that the Department of the Environment and Water Affairs was
embarking on a program to build charging stations for electric vehicles to
encourage their increased use.
At the same time, standards regulating vehicles such as EVs
were being compiled. Initiatives include a research program at the University
of Port Elizabeth and a commitment that the government would buy electric
vehicles where appropriate.
"In the medium term South Africa must become a
manufacturing base for energy efficient, green vehicles,” Davies said.
"Global trends indicate that this is where growth will be in the future.”
Our electric
future
