Kia’s Tasman bakkie arrives in South Africa
Kia has taken a bold step into one of South Africa’s most competitive automotive segments with the launch of the Tasman, its first-ever double cab bakkie.
- Product News
- 9 April 2026
Ascend Elements, a US-based engineered materials and lithium-ion battery recycling company, recently released consumer survey results on electric vehicles (EVs) and EV-battery recycling.
Some of the most surprising finds were that nearly half of US consumers mistakenly believe EV batteries aren’t recyclable. Another widely held misconception by more than 37% of Americans is that they do not know that recycled lithium-ion battery materials can be used to make new EV batteries.
From the survey, it has also transpired that American consumers have increasingly become more positive about EVs over the past three years. 46% say EVs will outsell gasoline-powered cars in their lifetime, 59% say EVs are better for the environment than fuel-powered cars and 59% say EVs will save them money over the lifetime of the vehicle.
Other interesting finds that were reported include:
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.