Shaun Maidment recounts his adventurous journey across South Africa in a BMW i3 before the existence of a charging infrastructure. As an early EV enthusiast, he faced numerous challenges but ultimately gained valuable insights about electric mobility. His experiences reflect both the trials and triumphs of pioneering EV travel in South Africa and offer an optimistic view of the future of electric vehicles in the region.
Shaun Maidment embarked on an impressive journey across South Africa in an electric vehicle (EV), specifically a BMW i3, prior to the establishment of a charging infrastructure along the national routes. Despite the current prevalence of charging stations facilitating frequent cross-country EV travel, Maidment’s experiences reflect a time when drivers had to depend on their resourcefulness and the hospitality of others to recharge during long trips.
As one of South Africa’s pioneering EV enthusiasts, Maidment is noted for owning the highest-mileage BMW i3 on the continent, having accumulated 365,000 kilometers. His bold decision to traverse South Africa predates the availability of ample charging stations, challenging him to find alternative means to sustain his journey.
In an interview with Nkosinathi Ndlovu on the TechCentral Show, Maidment shares his inspiration for undertaking this remarkable drive from Johannesburg to Cape Town in 2017. He recounts the meticulous planning process, considers the scarcity of charging stations at the time, and reflects on captivating anecdotes from his travels, showcasing the kindness of the people he encountered.
Maidment also discusses the knowledge he has gained over the years concerning efficient EV driving and compares the mileage performance of his current i3 with that when it was brand new. He shares his optimistic viewpoint on the future of electric mobility in South Africa, drawing from his extensive personal experience with EVs. This enlightening episode of the TechCentral Show offers invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of electric vehicles in the region.
In summary, Shaun Maidment’s extraordinary journey across South Africa in his BMW i3, undertaken before the establishment of extensive charging infrastructure, offers vital insights into the early days of electric vehicle travel. His story exemplifies the challenges faced by early adopters and highlights the evolving nature of electric mobility in South Africa. Maidment’s experiences provide inspiration and lessons for both current and future EV enthusiasts.
Original Source: techcentral.co.za
