Volvo Car South Africa has cemented itself as a leader in the local electric vehicle segment, with combined sales totalling 467 between January and September 2024. With a three-car-strong range of cutting-edge battery-electric vehicles, Volvo is currently leading the premium electric segment, outpacing rivals in the luxury arena.
The automaker has not only held the lead but also consistently exceeded competitor sales month after month, even while offering fewer model options. In the months leading up to October, 348 units of the EX30 were sold, with the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge following at 96 and 23 units respectively.
“We have reached new sales heights in the first nine months of the year, driven by strong demand for the EX30,” says Markus Cromwell, Commercial Director at Volvo Car South Africa. “With a starting price of R791 900, the EX30 delivers exceptional value in the premium electric car segment. As we move closer to our goal of becoming an all-electric automaker – and prepare to introduce the exciting EX90 flagship locally – we anticipate that our EV sales figures will set new records.”
With its appealing base price, tech-laden interior, and a 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.6 seconds (for the Twin Motor Performance), it’s no surprise the EX30 is the best-selling premium EV in South Africa. The EV has won several awards since it debuted globally, the most recent being New Energy Vehicle of the Year | Battery Electric Models at the 2024 naamsa Accelerator Awards. The EX30 is also a finalist in the Cars.co.za 2025 CarsAwards.
During this period, the XC40 Recharge was Volvo SA’s second-best-selling electric vehicle, with 96 units delivered to satisfied customers. These results again underscore Volvo’s advantage over competitors, with XC40 Recharge sales outpacing two of its closest European luxury rivals by an impressive 92% and 300% respectively.
“Our overall numbers reflect Volvo’s strong value proposition for our new and existing clientele. As we continue to make inroads into the South African EV market, we see significant potential for growth,” Markus adds.
By 2030, Volvo aims for 90-100% of its global sales to comprise electrified vehicles, including both battery-electric and plug-in hybrid models.
BYD and Tesla, two giants of the electric vehicle industry, are navigating diverging challenges. BYD faces mounting competition in China and questions over its pricing strategy, while Tesla grapples with fading incentives and unsold inventory in the United States.
Nissan South Africa has agreed to sell its Rosslyn production facility after 60 years of operation. The plant, which produced models such as the 1400 ‘Champ’ bakkie, NP200 and Navara, was acquired by Chery SA. The Chinese automaker has sold over 80,000 vehicles locally since 2021 and is now strengthening its African presence.
Volvo has commenced on-road testing of heavy trucks powered by hydrogen combustion engines. This pioneering solution places Volvo at the forefront of the industry, with commercial launch planned before 2030.
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You can't buy happiness but you can buy cars and that's kind of the same thing.
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BYD and Tesla, two giants of the electric vehicle industry, are navigating diverging challenges. BYD faces mounting competition in China and questions over its pricing strategy, while Tesla grapples with fading incentives and unsold inventory in the United States.
Volvo has commenced on-road testing of heavy trucks powered by hydrogen combustion engines. This pioneering solution places Volvo at the forefront of the industry, with commercial launch planned before 2030.
While rising fuel prices often trigger spikes in interest around electric vehicles, Volvo Car South Africa believes the real reasons South Africans are starting to consider EVs go far beyond the petrol pump.
