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- Changan Hunter K50 REEV Review: A true South African Bakkie?
By: Dylan Naidoo Interested in this bakkie? Click on this image to read the brochure The workforce bakkie is a staple of South African culture. From their bold road presence to their extreme capability, it should come as no surprise as to why we see so many of them on the road. And please, we all know that one guy in our friend group that drives a Hilux or Ranger. In June 2026 alone, Top Auto reported the bestselling car in South Africa was not even a car, it was the tough and rugged Toyota Hilux. Seeing this, I believe Changan saw these statistics and went all in on integrating a bakkie that appeals to the popular demands of South Africans: An AWD range-extender electric bakkie with a futuristic design paired with proper luxury. Our review unit for today is the Changan Hunter K50 REEV, the world’s first range-extender electric bakkie. What is a REEV? A REEV stands for “Range-Extended Electric Vehicles” and is a range of vehicles in South Africa that feature hybrid set-ups of both a combustion engine and electric motors, like a hybrid. Unlike a traditional hybrid however, a REEV utilises its combustion engine as a generator for the electric motors instead of acting like another main source of power. This double combo set-up results in these REEVs to shine with incredibly long ranges. This is reflected in the estimated 1000km range of the Changan Hunter K50 REEV, according to Changan. Technology The Hunter boasts a powerful 200kW electric motor paired with a 2l turbocharged petrol engine used as an electric generator. Onboard, the electric motors and combustion engine charge a 31kWh battery, according to Cars.co.za. All of these aspects combined are estimated to give the Hunter an impressive 1000+ km of range, according to Changan. It also allows the Changan to utilise 470Nm of torque, effective for heavy loads. The Hunter truly shines with its power. It’s an instant charge of power that really does grip you. I got to test this car out with our CEO, Grant Adlam, and both of us looked at each other with the same final approval, this bakkie is quick. As with any luxury Chinese REEV, the bakkie is loaded with so much tech, it could probably write its own college application. At the heart of the Hunter K50 you will find the rather large infotainment screen, supporting CarPlay and Android Auto, that also controls most of the features in this bakkie. I noticed many people tend to be divided on these massive touchscreens, pointing out factors like the prioritisation of aesthetics over usability, but considering the large adoption of Chinese vehicles with this tech, I’m only guessing this ultimately comes down to the buyer’s preference. The Hunter K50 also features 3 driving modes: Eco, normal and sport. We noticed that Eco was quite sufficient for an eco-mode, whilst the sport mode really added some flair to the vehicle. All your high-tech assists are onboard with Hunter, including brake assist and cruise controls. Now it is one thing to get all nerdy with the specs of this bakkie, but as a bakkie driver, we all know where the real priorities lie. Space & Utility The truck bed of the Changan is rated to hold an estimated 1010 Kg of weight, which for a newer car brand in South Africa, is very impressive considering the tech that runs within this vehicle. The bed itself is 1590mmx 1580mm x 490mm in dimensions, offering a sizable amount of space for keeping things inside. The bakkie has an estimated ground clearance of 220mm without a load, and 195mm containing the max load. In person, we found the bakkie to sit considerably high, giving us an overseeing view of the road. Truly, the bakkie is capable and really pulls for its weight. According to Cars.co.za, the Changan Hunter K50 features an AWD system, with the truck quite capable of pushing above its weight. Featuring a “ladder-frame-set-up”, this set up is reserved for durability and articulation. Pricing and Overall Thoughts According to Top Gear South Africa, pricing of the Hunter K50 REEV starts at R799 999, placing it near its double-cab rivals from Ford, Isuzu and Toyota. Going up against the bakkie giants like this is a bold move, considering companies like Mercedes with their X-Class and Mazda with their BT-50 failed to beat the big 3. However, Changan has a lot going for it. With its sleek futuristic design and innovative power unit, I think that the Changan Hunter K50 REEV may be an attractive prospect for the right driver. Visit Changan's website for more vehicles here: https://www.changanmotors.co.za/
- Haval H6 PHEV review – Practical family hauler that just “Wows”
By: Dylan Naidoo Like what you see? Click on this image to read the brochure Great Wall Motors (GWM) remains a firm player in the South African automotive market, especially with successful models such as the Haval Jolion. Currently placed in the 6th position for this year's bestselling manufacturers, GWM currently holds a 5% market share in the South African market, with the brand experiencing a 31.9% year-on-year increase, according to Caitlyn Hilliard-Lomas from BusinessTech. As such, GWM is performing well in the South African market, and it’s not hard to see why. Vehicles such as the Jolion offer advanced technology and luxury for a price point not seen before, completely redefining what truly makes a luxurious car. And to that point, is where we see GWM’s Haval H6 PHEV shine in that aspect in our review. Grant Adlam got the opportunity to test out the highest trim: The Haval H6 PHEV Ultra Luxury Hi-4, with me riding shotgun. Engineering & Technology This version of the Haval H6 is the plug-in electric vehicle, a type of hybrid with a large battery cell. The SUV features a 1.5l turbo charged petrol engine paired with dual electric motors that deliver 268kW and a truly outstanding 760nm or torque. The result? The H6 PHEV has an incredible amount of power, like glue your head on your headrest amount of power, and it should come as to no surprise why. We do have to remember this H6 also comes in the sporty GT variant, which can rival some dedicated sports cars. As for the H6 PHEV, it does 0-100km/h in just 4.8 seconds, again, rivalling dedicated sports cars. That instant power delivery is quick and truly impressed us. All variants of the H6 PHEV come in a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) only. The H6 PHEV also contains a 19.1kW battery, and combined with the petrol engine, the car is estimated to deliver an impressive 1000km range. In terms of safety, the H6 PHEV holds a 5-Star ANCAP (Australian Safety Board) rating, containing a slew of safety equipment such as lane assist and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) . At the beating heart of the Haval is the rather large infotainment system which, like many other Chinese cars, controls most of the car’s options on board. You get a 360-degree vehicle camera, nine good speakers that is by far the best I’ve heard in a car like this, as well as wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. Design As prevalent in many Chinese cars, the Haval incorporates a large front grill with angular LED headlights. These angular lights can also be seen in the rear. Overall, the design makes the car feel like the older, more mature sibling to the Jolian. Whilst the Jolian catered to young professionals, this H6 PHEV is targeted towards families especially with its commanding stance. Interior and Spacing Being a big family crossover-SUV, the H6 PHEV offers a generous amount of both head and legroom. The interior is spacious, with comfortable seating that makes you forget you are in the passenger seat of this car. The seats are electronically adjustable, and paired with the soft suspension, the drive feels comfortable, like floating on air might I add. Yes, my fellow bookworms out there, I can confirm you can read a book in this car without feeling nauseous. The boot is 560L in capacity, according to official documentation from GWM, and in our testing we found the boot to be quite large. Pricing and Overall Thoughts Pricing for the Haval H6 PHEV starts at R699,900, with our Hi-4 trim starting at R749,900. That is quite a steep premium, but considering the package on offer, it is still quite competitively priced. Compared to its Japanese Toyota RAV-4 competitor, the H6 PHEV benefits from being a hybrid, a significant leg up that can be an attractive prospect for buyers. Haval H6 PHEV, arriving in style from our KZN Top Business Awards
- Why Choose Mobi-Response911 for Your 24/7 Armed Security Needs in Westville
When it comes to protecting your home or business in Westville, not all armed response services offer the same level of commitment and reliability. Safety is a priority that demands swift action, professional handling, and constant vigilance. Mobi-Response911 stands out by delivering owner-operated, 24/7 armed response with dedicated vehicles, ensuring your security needs are met with precision and care. Comprehensive Alarm Monitoring for Immediate Action Mobi-Response911 offers advanced alarm monitoring services designed to detect threats quickly and accurately. Their system is constantly active, scanning for any signs of intrusion or danger. Once an alarm is triggered, the team immediately assesses the situation and dispatches armed response units without delay. This rapid response reduces the risk of property damage or personal harm. For example, if a home alarm is activated late at night, Mobi-Response911’s owner-operated team ensures that a fully equipped vehicle reaches the location promptly, providing peace of mind to residents. Dedicated Vehicles for Fast and Reliable Armed Response Unlike many services that rely on shared or third-party vehicles, Mobi-Response911 uses dedicated, fully equipped armed response vehicles. These vehicles are staffed by trained professionals who know Westville’s neighborhoods well, allowing them to navigate quickly and efficiently. Having dedicated vehicles means no waiting for backup or sharing resources. This setup guarantees that when you need help, it arrives fast and ready to handle the situation. The vehicles are monitored by Mobi-Trak911, a tracking system that ensures every unit is accounted for and can be redirected as needed to cover emergencies. Incident Management with Mobi-Claw911 Mobi-Response911 goes beyond just responding to alarms. Their incident management system, Mobi-Claw911, coordinates the entire process from alarm activation to resolution. This system tracks incidents in real time, allowing the team to manage resources effectively and keep clients informed. For example, if a security breach occurs, Mobi-Claw911 helps the team prioritize response efforts, communicate with local law enforcement, and document the event for follow-up. This level of management ensures that incidents are handled professionally and thoroughly. Ongoing Risk Assessment and Crime Prevention Security is not just about reacting to threats but preventing them. Mobi-Response911 conducts ongoing risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in your property or neighborhood. Their team works proactively to implement crime prevention strategies tailored to your specific needs. This might include recommending improved lighting, advising on secure entry points, or coordinating with local Neighbourhood Watch groups. By addressing risks before they become problems, Mobi-Response911 helps reduce the chances of incidents occurring in the first place. Integration with Neighbourhood Watch for Community Safety Mobi-Response911 understands the power of community in maintaining safety. They actively integrate their services with local Neighbourhood Watch programs, creating a network of vigilance and support. This integration means that residents and businesses in Westville benefit from shared information and coordinated responses. When the community works together with a trusted armed response service, the overall security environment improves significantly. Added Value with Mobi-Ambo Plans Included in Mobi-Response911’s offering are up to two Mobi-Ambo plans, which provide emergency medical response services. This addition means that in the event of a medical emergency, help is available alongside security response. Having both armed response and medical assistance coordinated through one service simplifies emergency management and enhances safety for families and businesses alike. Owner-Operated Service for Personalized Attention One key advantage of Mobi-Response911 is that it is owner-operated. This means the people responsible for your security are directly involved in daily operations and committed to high standards. Owner-operators tend to be more responsive to client needs, offer personalized service, and maintain strict quality control. This approach builds trust and ensures that your security is handled with care and professionalism. How to Get Started with Mobi-Response911 If you live or work in Westville and want a reliable, professional armed response service, Mobi-Response911 is ready to help. You can learn more about their services by visiting www.mobiventures.co.za or contacting their sales team at 031 109 1888. Email inquiries can be sent to care@mobiventures.co.za. Taking the step to secure your property with a trusted, owner-operated service can make all the difference in your peace of mind and safety. Choosing the right armed response service means choosing a partner who acts quickly, manages incidents professionally, and works with your community to prevent crime. Mobi-Response911 delivers all this with dedicated vehicles, advanced monitoring, and a personal touch. Protect your home or business in Westville by trusting a service that puts your safety first. Reach out today to secure your property with Mobi-Response911.
- Moving South Africa's Public Sector into the Cloud
South Africa's public sector is embracing digital transformation at an increasing pace. Over the last 20 years, the government has sought to leverage technology to enhance government processes, making them more efficient and accessible to South Africans. This has evolved from e-government initiatives to plans that include the digitisation of government services to an extent that provides for internal systems that govern workflow processes. From digitised health and identity records, online booking of vehicle registration, social grant systems, and other business and social services. However, the more we connect these critical services to the internet, the more vulnerable they become to cyber-attacks. According to ESET's bi-annual Threat Report, South Africa ranked number one in Africa for ransomware and infostealer attacks in the second half of 2024. Globally, we are among the most frequently targeted nations. The consequences are not just technical headaches, but these threats can even hamper the optimal functioning of specific organs of state, especially at a local government level, where the government may not always have the depth of resources that would be equipped to effectively deal with such an incident, depending on the severity of the attack. Cyberattacks can hinder the provision of essential services, from the processing of critical hospital records, social grants, and countless other vital information, when systems go offline due to a cyberattack. This has been the lived experience of several South Africans when interfacing with institutions that have been hit by an attack over the last five years. The reality is that cyber-attacks such as ransomware, infostealers, and phishing attacks are becoming more sophisticated every day. Our defences must evolve accordingly. That means adopting a multi-layered cybersecurity approach, one that extends beyond installing firewalls and anti-viruses. Moving government systems into the cloud can be one measure to help safeguard critical government services as we undertake this digital transition. While the cloud is not a cure-all, a secure cloud environment can integrate more robust security tools, which are constantly applied and monitored, providing an advantage in ensuring long-term security and the stability of systems. Disaster Recovery and Backup: Cloud-based systems allow for quick restoration of services following a cyber-attack incident, reducing downtime and minimising disruption. Scalability and Flexibility: As threats continue to evolve, cloud platforms can easily incorporate new security tools and protocols without the expensive delays associated with updating physical infrastructure. Critics may argue that moving government data into the cloud introduces new risks, especially when foreign-based providers are involved. This is a valid concern, one that must be addressed through stringent procurement protocols, building local data centre capacity to ensure resiliency and working with service providers who comply with our national security priorities. Migrating South Africa's government services into secure cloud environments will ensure that, when the next cyberattack affects our public institutions, South African's can rest assured that they will still be able to enjoy the services they rely on. Ms Brynn Gerson, heads Dube iConnect a government-owned Telecommunications and Local Cloud Computing Service Provider, within Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone. Moving South Africa's Public Sector into the Cloud
- The anatomy of a break-in: What criminals look for and how you can stop them
By: Trellidor As winter has settled in across South Africa, the longer nights create conditions that many criminals are quick to exploit. Homes are often left in darkness for longer periods, gardens become overgrown, and families travel during school holidays, making this an ideal time for homeowners to reassess their security. Understanding how criminals identify vulnerable properties is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk. While no two break-ins are identical, security professionals consistently see common patterns in the way opportunistic criminals assess a home before deciding to strike. One of the first things they look for is visibility. Poorly lit entrances, concealed windows, high boundary walls with dense vegetation, and dark side passages provide valuable cover. Criminals generally favour properties where they can work unnoticed and minimise the chances of being seen by neighbours or passing traffic. Ease of entry is another major consideration. Doors fitted with basic locks, unsecured windows, ageing security gates, or weak access points can all become attractive targets. In many cases, criminals will choose the property that appears easiest to enter rather than attempting to defeat more robust physical barriers. Criminals also pay attention to routine. Homes that appear unoccupied for extended periods, bins left out after collection day, or social media posts announcing holidays can all signal an opportunity. According to Damian Judge, CEO of Trellidor, effective home security is less about creating an intimidating fortress and more about removing opportunities. "Criminals are constantly assessing risk versus reward. If a property presents multiple obstacles that slow them down, increase visibility or make forced entry significantly more difficult, they are far more likely to move on and look for an easier target." This is where quality physical security remains one of the most effective deterrents. While smart technology such as cameras, alarms and app-based monitoring continues to evolve, these systems are most effective when paired with strong physical barriers that delay or prevent entry in the first place. Security barriers should not only look robust but also be engineered to perform under real-world conditions. It is important that security products undergo extensive testing to ensure they deliver consistent performance when it matters most. This includes rigorous assessments for forced-entry resistance, durability, corrosion resistance and long-term operational reliability, helping ensure that products continue to function effectively throughout years of daily use and exposure to South African conditions. "Testing gives homeowners confidence that the security they install has been designed to withstand genuine attack methods rather than simply looking secure," says Judge. "Independent testing and strict manufacturing standards are essential because, in a real break-in, every additional second of resistance can make a meaningful difference." Winter also provides the perfect opportunity to conduct a comprehensive home security audit before the busy spring and festive travel seasons arrive. Homeowners should ensure that outdoor lighting is working properly, particularly around entrances, garages and side passages. Trees and shrubs should be trimmed to eliminate hiding places and improve visibility from the street. All doors, windows and security barriers should be inspected to confirm that locks, hinges and fittings remain in good working order. Alarm systems and outdoor sensors should also be tested regularly rather than assumed to be functioning correctly. Perhaps most importantly, homeowners should evaluate their property from a criminal's perspective. Are there obvious weak points? Could someone approach unseen? Would an intruder be delayed long enough for neighbours or a security response team to react? "Good security isn't built around fear," concludes Judge. "It's built around preparation. The more difficult a property is to access, the less attractive it becomes. Winter is the ideal time to identify vulnerabilities; strengthen physical security and ensure your home is prepared long before criminals begin looking for opportunities." Image by Trellidor
- Debunking the Myths About Risk Management
Debunking the Myths About Risk Management Article written by Jannie Rossouw from Bright Future Consulting When business owners hear the term risk management, many immediately think of lengthy compliance documents, complicated processes or unnecessary costs. As a result, risk management is often pushed to the bottom of the priority list—until something goes wrong. The truth is that every business, regardless of its size or industry, is exposed to risk every day. Whether it is the loss of a key client, cybercrime, fraud, supply chain disruption, regulatory changes or operational failures, unmanaged risks have the potential to disrupt business operations and erode profitability. Yet many organisations continue to delay implementing effective risk management because of a few common misconceptions. Common Myths About Risk Management Myth 1: Risk management is too technical. Many believe that risk management is reserved for large corporations with dedicated compliance departments. Reality: Effective risk management is simply about understanding what could prevent your business from achieving its objectives and putting practical measures in place to reduce those risks. It does not have to be complicated—it needs to be relevant. Myth 2: It creates unnecessary administration. Some business owners view risk management as additional paperwork that distracts from running the business. Reality: Good risk management should become part of normal business decision-making. When integrated into daily operations, it often saves time by preventing costly disruptions and allowing businesses to respond more effectively when challenges arise. Myth 3: The costs outweigh the benefits. Risk management is often seen as another business expense with little measurable return. Reality: Research indicates that businesses lose an average of approximately 5% of annual turnover due to risk-related events—many of which were known but remained unaddressed. The cost of proactively identifying and managing risks is typically only a fraction of the financial losses associated with an unmanaged event. Myth 4: My accountant or auditor already manages these risks. Many business owners assume that their professional advisers automatically address business risks. Reality: While accountants, auditors and financial advisers play an important role within their respective disciplines, the responsibility for identifying and managing business risks ultimately rests with business owners and management. Risk management requires an organisation-wide approach that extends far beyond financial reporting. A Different Way of Thinking Risk management is not about avoiding risk altogether. Every successful business takes calculated risks to grow, innovate and compete. The objective is to identify potential threats before they become costly problems and to ensure the business is prepared to respond when uncertainty arises. Businesses that proactively manage risk are generally more resilient, make better strategic decisions and recover more quickly from unexpected events. Join the Conversation If you've ever thought that risk management was too complicated, too expensive or only relevant to large organisations, it may be time to rethink those assumptions. Join our upcoming Enterprise Risk Intelligence Webinar, where we'll separate fact from fiction, explain how practical risk management works in businesses of all sizes, and expose you to the 17 most common risks which SME`s are exposed to. The greatest risk to any business is not the risks you know about—it's the ones you choose to ignore. SAVE THE DATE Wednesday, 12 August 2026 | 08:30 – 09:45 (SAST) EXCLUSIVE ONLINE WORKING SESSION ENTERPRISE RISK INTELLIGENCE SESSION Registration details to follow. Places are limited.
- More than the man behind Amashova: David Wiseman's lifelong journey on two wheels
Chelsea Brand When people speak about David Wiseman, his name is almost always followed by the same description: co-founder of the Amashova National Classic. When people speak about David Wiseman, his name is almost always followed by the same description: co-founder of the Amashova National Classic. While that title is certainly deserved, it tells only a fraction of the story. For more than fifty years, David has lived and breathed cycling. He has competed at the highest level, represented South Africa internationally, managed elite athletes, helped develop BMX in its infancy, mentored generations of cyclists and built one of the country's most enduring sporting events. Long before Amashova became a household name, David had already devoted his life to growing the sport he loves. His cycling journey began as a young track sprinter. "I was always built more for speed than climbing," he laughs. Like many riders of his generation, the seasons were split between track racing in the summer and road racing through winter. While others excelled on long mountain climbs, David found his strengths in explosive power, sprint finishes and tandem racing on the velodrome. Those early years laid the foundation for a career that would stretch far beyond competition. As South African cycling evolved, so did David. He raced nationally for decades, remaining competitive well into his forties, but his curiosity and passion for the sport extended beyond simply crossing finish lines. He immersed himself in every aspect of cycling, from coaching and event organisation to retail and athlete development. One of the highlights of his competitive career was representing South Africa internationally, including competing in the prestigious Milk Race in the United Kingdom. Often described as one of the toughest amateur stage races in the world, the two-week event was regarded as a proving ground for future professional cyclists. For David, it offered invaluable experience racing against some of the world's strongest riders while broadening his understanding of the sport beyond South Africa's borders. That international exposure would later serve him well when he took on management roles within South African cycling, including leading national teams overseas and managing the South African cycling team at the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games. Yet despite these achievements, David is quick to shift the conversation away from his own accomplishments. Instead, he speaks about the riders who came after him. Over the years, he has watched young cyclists arrive with talent and determination but little understanding of bunch etiquette, race craft or the responsibility riders have towards one another. "If one rider makes a mistake, everybody pays the price," he explains. Passing on those lessons has become one of the most rewarding chapters of his career. Today, he still enjoys helping newer cyclists develop not only their fitness but also the skills and awareness needed to ride safely and confidently. His influence has extended well beyond road cycling. Long before BMX became an Olympic sport, David was helping build some of KwaZulu-Natal's first BMX tracks. Naturally, he couldn't resist competing himself. "I was probably the oldest guy on the track," he jokes. His willingness to embrace every discipline reflected a simple philosophy: if it involved two wheels, he wanted to be part of it. Alongside racing and administration came entrepreneurship. For many years, David owned and operated a bicycle shop that became far more than a place to buy equipment. It became a meeting point for Durban's cycling community ─ a place where friendships were formed, rides were planned and newcomers were welcomed into the sport. Running the business demanded almost every waking hour. Friday nights at the velodrome, Saturdays in the shop, BMX events on weekends and Sunday group rides eventually became an exhausting routine. "There came a point where I simply needed a break," he admits. Stepping away from cycling for a period gave him the opportunity to recharge. Ironically, it also reminded him why he had fallen in love with the sport in the first place. Today, he rides more kilometres than he did during much of his racing career, but with a very different outlook. "I probably enjoy cycling more now than I ever did." The stopwatch has been replaced by conversation. Competition has given way to camaraderie. His regular riding group covers hundreds of kilometres each week, but the real value lies in the friendships forged along the route. When asked what cycling has taught him that has nothing to do with bicycles, David answers without hesitation. "Friendships." It is a simple response from a man whose life has been anything but ordinary. Perhaps that explains why Amashova has endured for four decades. The race reflects the same values that have defined David’s own journey: resilience, community and the belief that sport has the power to bring people together. He still remembers that first Amashova in 1986 ─ a little bakkie leading just over one hundred riders out of Pietermaritzburg. Few could have imagined then that the event would become one of South Africa's premier cycling classics. Fewer still would have predicted the lasting impact David Wiseman would have on South African cycling itself. His legacy cannot be measured by one race alone. It lives on in every rider he has mentored, every event he has helped build, every young cyclist he has encouraged and every friendship formed through a shared love of two wheels. For David Wiseman, cycling has never simply been about reaching the finish line. It has always been about leaving the sport stronger than he found it. Forty years after helping create Amashova ─ and more than half a century after first pinning on a race number ─ that may well be his greatest victory. Dave Wiseman of Amashova: Early morning Business Sense at the Durban Beachfront! Amashova Website: https://www.shova.co.za/
- Before the Finish Line: The Early Mornings, Quiet Roads and Community Behind Amashova
Chelsea Brand Every July, thousands of cyclists gather at the start line of the Amashova National Classic, ready to tackle one of South Africa's most iconic cycling events. Spectators see colourful jerseys, determined faces and the excitement of race day. What they don't always see is everything that happened long before the starting whistle. For many riders, the Amashova journey begins months earlier. Across South Africa, while most are still asleep, groups of cyclists gather before sunrise. Coffee cups are exchanged for water bottles, lights are checked, helmets are fastened and another training ride begins. Whether they are seasoned competitors chasing a personal best or first-time entrants hoping simply to cross the finish line, every rider shares something in common: the commitment to show up. It is in these early morning training sessions that the true spirit of Amashova comes alive. Local cycling clubs play an essential role in preparing riders, offering far more than structured training programmes. They create a sense of belonging. New cyclists quickly discover experienced mentors willing to share advice on pacing, nutrition, bike maintenance and race strategy. Long climbs become easier when tackled together, and difficult mornings become memorable because of the conversations shared along the route. For many participants, cycling is about much more than fitness. It offers a welcome escape from demanding work schedules, an opportunity to improve mental wellbeing and a chance to reconnect with nature while exploring the beautiful landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal. The kilometres may be demanding, but the rewards often extend far beyond physical achievement. Training also teaches valuable lessons in patience and resilience. Progress rarely happens overnight. One weekend may bring a stronger climb or a faster average speed, while another reminds riders that perseverance matters just as much as performance. Every ride contributes to the confidence needed to line up on race day. Amashova has long been recognised as more than a competitive cycling event. It has become a celebration of endurance, determination and community. Riders of different ages, professions and backgrounds come together with a shared goal, creating friendships that often last well beyond the event itself. Many cycling clubs also use the build-up to the race as an opportunity to welcome newcomers into the sport. Beginners often discover that cycling is far more accessible than they imagined, supported by experienced riders who remember exactly what it felt like to prepare for their own first Amashova. As race day approaches on 19 July, the excitement continues to build. Final training rides are being completed, bicycles are receiving last-minute mechanical checks and nutrition plans are being fine-tuned. While every rider will have their own personal objective ─ whether it's a podium finish, a personal best or simply completing the course ─ the shared anticipation creates a unique atmosphere throughout the cycling community. They serve as a reminder that the story of Amashova is not written solely on race day. It is written in every early alarm, every training session completed despite cold weather, every encouraging word from a fellow cyclist and every kilometre ridden in preparation for the challenge ahead. When the riders finally roll across the finish line on 19 July, they will be celebrating far more than a single day's effort. They will be celebrating the journey that brought them there. Whether you're riding, supporting from the roadside or simply cheering on friends and family, Amashova is a reminder that some of the greatest achievements are built one ride, one sunrise and one community at a time. Amashova Website: https://www.shova.co.za/ Grant Adlam & David Wiseman at Pirates Lifesaving Club after an early morning ride
- Renault Captur Esprit Alpine Review: The return of the Sporty Renault?
By: Dylan Naidoo Renault as a brand has been doing brilliantly in South Africa. By restructuring their strategy and offering vehicles in various different price brackets, Renault has effectively done something similar to Suzuki, and yes, that is why you see Renaults all over here in Durban. However, I feel even in this strategy, I do still miss the sporty flair their previous models used to have. Whilst discontinued here in South Africa, I do fondly remember the Clio and Megane mostly for their sporty variants, marking Renault’s legacy as making affordable sporty hatchbacks that can absolutely compete with the VW Polo and Golf. However, Renault seems to be bringing back that sporty flair to their cars, especially with the all-new Renault Captur Esprit Alpine, our review unit which is the highest trim model of the Renault Captur. Grant, CEO of KZN Top Business and I, went for a drive in this spectacular machine. Engineering and Technologies The Renault Captur Esprit Alpine features a four cylinder, 1.3L turbocharged engine producing a respectable 113kW of power and 270Nm of torque. When Grant first drove this car, he was very impressed by just how much power this car has, and I definitely saw where he was coming from. The surprisingly strong engine is paired to a 7-Speed automatic gearbox, making for a rather pleasant drive where the engine was quiet in most scenarios, but put your foot down and kick it into sport mode to truly feel that turbocharged engine. We also found the ride quality to be great, considering the car’s size, it managed to easily glide over Durban’s signature bumpy roads. Renault Captur infotainment System At the centre console of the Captur you will find the 10.4-inch OpenR Link vertical touchscreen, as opposed to a vertical touchscreen, which I feel is quite unique. The infotainment screen includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You get two usb-c charge ports in the front and two for the rear seats. We do have some nice options for climate control, with the Alpine trim getting the automatic climate control and heated front seats. We also got some great comfort features such as parking sensors and a reverse camera. In terms of safety, the Renault Captur scores an impressive 4-star Euro NCap rating, so you can truly drive with confidence. Design Understanding the design direction of this car means understanding the brand Alpine. Alpine is a sporty French Automaker and subsidiary of Renault. The company is known for their A110, a sleek little sports car that won the 1973 World Rally Championship (See more info here). Renault Captur Boot Today, the company makes a modern version of the A110 as well as two EVs sold in selected countries, sadly not South Africa. However, Alpine influence is quite visible in the new Captur, with its “satin shale grey F1® blade”, a nod to their F1® team. We also got blue stitching around the seats, with a proudly displayed French flag woven into the stitching of the steering wheel. On top of the good-looking interior, the feel is also great. Of course, considering the love clearly put into this, build quality is excellent, and the blue detailing in honour of Alpine is stitched beautifully on the door panels. Seats are very comfortable and feel quite premium. Legroom and headroom is also very good, easily seating tall occupants. Boot space is also quite decent, with a max 616L with the rear seats pushed forward. My opinion? I think the car looks gorgeous. You get that quirky French flair that I feel has been absent from Renaults for a while, and all-round I love the design direction Renault was going with it. Price and Overall Thoughts The price of the Renault Captur Esprit Alpine starts at R 614 999, and you can get the standard Captur starting at R 515 999. However, you are paying for something that goes beyond just a normal car cruising on the road. Special edition cars like this are highly sought after, especially special editions that are tied to motorsports or racing pedigree. As such, I believe there are enthusiasts out there that would appreciate the Renault Captur Esprit Alpine for what it represents. Renault Captur Esprit Alpine
- JRS Solutions Contributes to the Future of Transport and Logistics
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