A historic climb proves electric vehicles can master the world’s toughest terrain. This landmark ascent was powered entirely by a solar-powered charger, setting a new standard for sustainable adventure.
In a landmark moment for electric mobility, the all-electric Volvo EX30 Cross Country has become the first battery-electric vehicle (BEV) to conquer South Africa’s legendary and brutal Sani Pass. This feat, achieved 56 years after the first Volvo completed the climb, shatters the myth that EVs lack the capability for extreme, rugged adventure.
The milestone is amplified by the use of South Africa’s highest solar-powered EV charger, installed by CHARGE at the Premier Resort Sani Pass. Located at 1,566 metres, this charger enabled a fully solar-to-solar journey, proving that exploration of the most remote locations can be powered entirely by clean energy.
Tackling a Legendary Challenge
Sani Pass is more than a road; it’s a rite of passage. This treacherous trail through the Drakensberg Mountains, once navigated by Basotho shepherds, separates ordinary vehicles from those built to endure. It demands relentless power, precise control, and unwavering resilience to navigate its steep gradients, hairpin bends, and rocky terrain.
The compact yet formidable EX30 Cross Country, with its 315 kW all-electric powertrain, tackled the ascent with precision and composure, demonstrating that electric power is more than capable of handling landscapes once reserved for combustion engines.
A Defining Moment for Electric Adventure
“The ascent of Sani Pass by the EX30 Cross Country is a defining moment for electric mobility in South Africa,” said Grant Locke, Managing Director of Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA). “It demonstrates that electric vehicles can tackle the most challenging terrain, and that clean, sustainable energy can power adventure in even the most remote and rugged locations.”
Locke added that this historic journey also marks a moment to reflect on the evolution of exploration and innovation. “From the Willys Jeep ascents of the mid-20th century to endurance tests and modern performance trials, Sani Pass has always been a stage for determination and ingenuity. The EX30 Cross Country now joins this line of milestones, demonstrating that electric power can deliver both capability and sustainability.”
Charging a Sustainable Future
This achievement not only showcases vehicle capability but also a blueprint for future infrastructure. The solar-powered charger used for the ascent is set to become even more capable.
“CHARGE is proud to have partnered with Volvo and the Premier Hotels & Resorts for this momentous occasion, driving sustainability as we migrate to NEVs,” commented Joubert Roux, Founder of CHARGE. “The solar-powered charger at Premier Resort Sani Pass will be upgraded in Q2 of 2026 with battery backup capabilities to allow for overnight charging, and therefore enhancing its capabilities even further.”
By combining rugged electric capability with innovative, renewable energy infrastructure, Volvo has powerfully redefined what it means to explore, proving that sustainable mobility can open new horizons for adventure.
