Volvo says the study reveals a growing interest in PHEVs and EVs, with hybrids increasingly viewed as a practical next step for diesel drivers.

Volvo PHEVs deliver strong performance, efficiency and reliability, the XC60 Recharge offers 340kW, 709Nm of torque and up to 81km of electric range.

Long-distance EV travel is now practical: the EX90 offers a range of over 600km, while the upcoming ES90 will reach 700km, with an additional 100km added in just 10 minutes at a 350kW fast charger.

Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) is seeing growing interest in electrified motoring as diesel drivers explore practical alternatives. A recent survey of more than 6 700 South African car owners, including 725 diesel owners, shows plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs) are steadily gaining ground, offering the performance and flexibility diesel drivers expect, with added efficiency and lower running costs.

While diesel remains trusted for torque and long-distance capability, hybrids are increasingly seen as the logical next step, reflecting a broader shift in South African motoring preferences.

Some 60% of diesel owners say they’re likely to consider a hybrid in the next 3-5 years. They see hybrids as delivering the best of both worlds: strong performance, advanced technology and practical, everyday usability. Volvo PHEVs, for example, combine responsive torque and long-range fuel savings with low maintenance and proven battery reliability.

The XC60 Recharge is a case in point, delivering impressive outputs of 340kW and 709Nm of torque, yet has a combined fuel consumption rating of 1.6 L/100 km and low emissions of 37 g/km.

This power comes courtesy of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor, which gains power from a 19kWh battery pack. As a result, the XC60 Recharge can travel up to 82km on battery power alone, significantly reducing fuel consumption without sacrificing the power associated with high-performance SUVs.

“Diesel drivers are discerning. They want flexibility, power and cost efficiency. That’s exactly what hybrids deliver, without the compromises,” comments Grant Locke, Managing Director of Volvo Car South Africa.

More than a third (38%) of diesel owners are currently considering an EV, which shows growing curiosity, particularly among those who value environmental benefits and advanced driving experiences. The Volvo EX90 already offers a range of over 600km, making long-distance travel practical, and in 2026, the ES90 will provide up to 700km (WLTP), with 300km of range added in just 10 minutes at 350kW fast-charging stations.

With charging infrastructure often part of the conversation around EVs, Volvo is helping to ease the shift with practical ownership support, from public charging access to home wallbox installations, making everyday use more straightforward and cost-effective.