As a motoring writer, it is important to see how the cars I see will be perceived by the audience. Heck, I live in ekasi so getting anything is key for me. And the sound of the car makes an initial impression – from the Vrrr-Phaaa of the GTI to the growl of the V8.
Needless to say, when I rocked the VW e-Golf, it was met with mixed reactions. It didn’t make a pleasant sound and I had to explain several times that it could drive like an internal combustion car.
On a recent visit with the new Polo GTI, it was quite a celebration. It looks right, sounds right and goes like clappers – happiness all around.
A few weeks later, I got to drive my first electric M-Performance car, a BMW i4 M50. This car is equipped with all-round drive mode and has a very special sound when engaged in a sportier setting. The sound was developed by the acclaimed music composer Hans Zimmer, and was met with great enthusiasm.
Unfortunately, I only got to experience this car in Joburg. Many in my community do not like EVs – such as the Nissan Leaf and the BMW i3. I4 M50 will definitely swayed many opinions.
Driving these cars in our neighborhood is also usually met with a rather strange reaction to the performance. The quick torque delivery elicits wide smiles and grins – the surprise of those left behind by EVs will surely spoil my highlight reel.
It is an electric vehicle that stops, which makes people die: “Tata, mayivakale imoto xa isiza” (we must hear the car coming). In addition, the price tag for EVs is generally inappropriate and let’s not get into the problem of painful electric utilities.
Another aspect that is not often considered is employment. Where will EV leave the reliable mechanics that have served us for so long without fail? This issue touches me deeply.
While many factors can cause a local business to die, most of the motorcycle shops we know are still around.
There is still a lifetime for the ekasion internal combustion engine.