AUDI NUVOLARI
The Four Rings’ Most Powerful Creation Yet
Images © AUDI
Audi has taken a bold step into the realm of pure supercars with the unveiling of the Nuvolari, its first high-performance hybrid production model, and the fastest, most powerful vehicle in the brand’s history. Limited to just 499 examples, with deliveries commencing in the first half of 2027, the Nuvolari sets new benchmarks for the four-ring marque.
At the heart of this mid-engined masterpiece lies a formidable hybrid powertrain delivering a combined 736 kW. A 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine produces 588 kW and 730 Nm of torque, spinning to 10,000 rpm, while three axial-flux electric motors, two at the front and one integrated at the rear, contribute an additional 110 kW each. This sophisticated system propels the Nuvolari from zero to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and zero to 200 km/h in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 350 km/h.
Beyond raw figures, the Nuvolari introduces groundbreaking technology inspired by Formula 1. The innovative quattro predictive ride system uses real-time sensor data and a precise vehicle model to anticipate and proactively manage grip, torque vectoring, and stability. Active aerodynamics, including a deployable rear wing with Drag Reduction System, generate more than 400 kg of downforce when required, while the new Audi Space Frame with carbon-fibre exterior ensures exceptional rigidity and low weight.
The design follows Audi’s latest philosophy, featuring taut surfaces, a powerful monolithic stance, and the signature Titanium paint finish. Inside, the driver-focused cabin blends motorsport minimalism with premium craftsmanship, carbon-fibre lightweight seats, and intuitive controls.
Named after legendary Italian racing driver Tazio Nuvolari, this supercar represents the pinnacle of Audi’s renowned technical ambition.
CHANGAN’S NEXT-GENERATION EVS
Range Confidence Meets South African Reality
Image © CHANGAN
In a country where practicality and common sense have long shaped our motoring culture, Changan South Africa is launching a thoughtful new-energy offensive. Rather than chasing novelty, the brand is delivering a pragmatic, confidence-inspiring EV portfolio built for local conditions.
Leading the charge is the groundbreaking Hunter K50 REEV, the world’s first range-extended electric bakkie to reach South African shores. Marrying the instant torque and refinement of electric drive with a 2.0-litre turbo petrol range extender, it offers 200 kW and 470 Nm, four-wheel drive, and genuine working credentials, like a 1,010 kg payload, 2,200 kg towing capacity, 600 mm wading depth, and 220 mm ground clearance. This electrified bakkie delivers up to 145 km of pure-electric running for daily duties, and a total range approaching 1,000 km for long hauls, effectively neutralising range anxiety.
Complementing this is the sophisticated Deepal S07, a premium all-electric SUV. With sculptural design, frameless doors and a yacht-inspired cabin featuring a 15.6″ “Sunflower” screen, AR head-up display, 14-speaker audio and advanced ADAS, it delivers 160 kW, 320 Nm and a 500 km range via rear-wheel drive. Fast charging from 30 to 80% takes approximately 35 minutes.
Soon to join is the more compact Deepal S05 REEV, which packages similar intelligent luxury and extended-range capability (160 km pure electric, up to 1,000 km combined) into an agile, city-friendly SUV.
Balancing innovation with real-world usability, Changan’s message is clear: electrification must be useful, desirable and robust enough for South African conditions.
BEYOND THE PUMP
Why South Africans Are Turning to Electrification
Image © VOLVO
While fuel price increases inevitably draw attention to electric vehicles, Volvo Car South Africa argues that the true case for EVs runs far deeper than fluctuating petrol prices.
“Fuel price hikes may start the conversation, but they are not the full story,” says Grant Locke, Managing Director of Volvo Car South Africa. “When you examine the total cost of ownership, servicing simplicity, and battery technology, electric vehicles present a compelling proposition on their own.
”Electric vehicles benefit from significantly fewer moving parts, resulting in lower maintenance demands. Many models offer servicing intervals of up to two years, often at reduced costs compared with traditional combustion engines. Battery durability has advanced markedly, with warranties typically covering eight years or 160,000 km. Responsible charging practices, such as keeping the battery between 20% and 80%, further extend lifespan, while pre-owned buyers can access battery health certificates for transparency.
A major advantage lies in energy control. Home charging, particularly on off-peak tariffs or solar, delivers substantial savings. Charging 50 kWh via public DC fast chargers can cost around R400 for 250–350 km of range, whereas home charging during cheaper periods may cost roughly R175. For a typical commuter covering 60 km daily, monthly energy costs can stay below R1,000, and often around R750 at average tariffs.
Volvo positions its growing electric lineup as a future-focused mobility solution. The shift, Locke notes, is increasingly about smarter, more independent long-term choices rather than mere reaction to the pump.
