Road Trip with Sweet Treats and an EV

JOHANNESBURG – A mid-week escape was long overdue. Life had been moving at its usual relentless pace, and I needed to slow things down, even if just for a day. Joining me on this spontaneous adventure was my trusted co-pilot, my brother and fellow motoring journalist, Brenwin Naidu, from the Sowetan. With no rigid plan in place, we set out on a simple mission: find good food, spend quality time together, and put an electric vehicle through its paces.

Our companion for this brief getaway was the Volvo EX30, a compact, stylish, and quietly confident vehicle. From the moment we set off, it became clear that this little EV was built for effortless cruising. Silent yet impressively quick, it glided along the road with ease, reminding us why electric mobility is becoming such a compelling alternative. The instant torque made overtaking effortless, while the minimalist cabin encouraged calm conversation rather than distraction.

Of course, no EV road trip is complete without thinking about range and charging. A stop at Potchefstroom Mall became our designated recharge point, for both the car and ourselves. While the EX30 topped up, we did what any self-respecting road trippers would do: snacks were a priority. We made a beeline for a local favourite and stocked up on ostrich biltong, a must-have for any journey worth remembering. Salty, flavourful, and proudly local, it set the tone for the rest of the day.

READ MORE: Living With An EV – Volvo EX30

Potchefstroom itself welcomed us with an easy charm. It’s not a town that overwhelms you with attractions, but rather one that invites you to relax. There’s a certain rhythm to the place, unhurried, clean, and refreshingly uncomplicated. Sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.

Hungry and curious, we decided to stop at a little spot called Die Aker. From the moment you step inside, its old wooden interiors and rustic character make you feel as though time has slowed down. There’s something comforting about a place that doesn’t try too hard to be trendy. A friendly waiter greeted us, showed us to our table, and before long, we were browsing the menu with enthusiasm.

Luck was on our side, it was Wednesday, and Die Aker was running a “buy one, get one free” meal special. That alone made the stop worthwhile. We kept things simple because sometimes simplicity is best. I opted for a schnitzel burger, crispy, golden, and generously portioned, served with a side of chips and onion rings. One bite in, and it was clear I had made the right choice. Juicy, well-seasoned, and deeply satisfying, it delivered comfort food at its finest.

My brother, however, went for something equally tempting: a cheddar melt burger, also paired with fries and onion rings. When the food arrived, conversation paused. The only sound at the table was the unmistakable silence of two hungry people enjoying a well-earned meal. His burger was rich and indulgent, the cheese perfectly melted, but if I had to choose a winner, the schnitzel burger edged it for me. Sometimes a classic just hits the soul differently.

As we wrapped up our stop in Potchefstroom, we reflected on the town itself. Was there much to see? Not particularly and that was part of the appeal. It offered simplicity, cleanliness, and calm. More importantly, it offered us time together. In the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to forget how valuable these quiet moments are.

Driving back, the Volvo EX30 continued to impress, efficient, composed, and perfectly suited to a short escape like this. But beyond the car, the food, or the destination, what mattered most was the reminder to slow down. To pause. To reconnect with the people who matter.

Sometimes, all you need is a road, a good meal, a reliable EV, and a meaningful company to reset your perspective.