By Prashiwin Naidu
A mid-week escape was long overdue. Life had been moving at its usual relentless pace, and I needed to slow down, even if just for a day. Joining me on this spontaneous adventure was my brother and fellow motoring journalist, Brenwin. With no strict plan, our mission was simple: find good food, spend quality time together, and put an electric vehicle through its paces.
The Volvo EX30: Quietly Confident
Our companion for the getaway was the Volvo EX30, compact, stylish, and quietly confident. From the moment we set off, it was clear this EV was made for effortless cruising. Silent yet impressively quick, it glided along the road with ease. The instant torque made overtaking effortless, while the minimalist cabin encouraged calm conversation rather than distraction.
Discovering Potchefstroom
Potchefstroom, or “Potch” as locals call it, is a charming mix of history, nature, and academia in the North West Province. Stroll down the iconic 7-kilometre Oak Avenue, xplore the Vredefort Dome UNESCO World Heritage Site, or enjoy birdwatching at the serene OPM Prozesky Bird Sanctuary. Hike, abseil, or unwind by the Potchefstroom Dam, while the NWU campus and Faan Meintjies Nature Reserve offer peaceful gardens and scenic drives. After a day of adventure, Potch’s shopping spots, like MooiRivier Mall, and cosy cafés and breweries provide the perfect way to relax and soak in the town’s atmosphere.
Recharge: Car and Crew
TNo EV road trip is complete without thinking about range and charging. Potchefstroom Mall became our designated recharge point, for both the car and ourselves. While the EX30 topped up, we stocked up on local snacks, including ostrich biltong — a salty, flavourful treat that set the tone for the day.
Comfort in Simplicity
Potchefstroom itself welcomed us with an easy charm. It’s not a town that overwhelms you with attractions, but one that invites you to relax. Its rhythm is unhurried, clean, and refreshingly uncomplicated. Sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
A Culinary Stop at Die Aker
Hungry, we stopped at Die Aker. Its old wooden interiors and rustic character made it feel as though time had slowed. Luck was on our side, it was Wednesday, and the restaurant was running a “buy one, get one free” special. I opted for a schnitzel burger with chips and onion rings, crispy, golden, and deeply satisfying. Brenwin went for a cheddar melt burger, equally indulgent. The only sound at the table was the silence of two hungry people enjoying a well- earned meal.
Reflection on the Day
As we wrapped up our stop, we reflected on the town itself. Was there much to see? Not particularly, and that was part of its charm. Potchefstroom offered simplicity, cleanliness, calm, and, most importantly, time together. In the rush of everyday life, these quiet moments are invaluable.
Driving back, the Volvo EX30 continued to impress, efficient, composed, and perfectly suited to a short escape. But beyond the car, the food, or the destination, what mattered most was the reminder to slow down, pause, and reconnect with the people who matter. Sometimes, all you need is a road, a good meal, a reliable EV, and meaningful company to reset your perspective.
