It’s been a while since I sent a newsletter but it’s been a busy few weeks. I was in the Western Cape with Lexus recently who launched a new plug-in hybrid, the NX 450h+ that I got to briefly sample. It’s a great option if you are curious about the EV life but cannot commit fully, as you can drive it exclusively on electric mode.
In addition to its petrol engine, it has an 18.1kWh battery with 66km of range, making it ideal for a daily commute. Oh, and the car has a recharge mode so you technically don’t have to go to a charger if you cannot find one near you. The pro of a hybrid is that you can use existing infrastructure, plus fill up with petrol. Read more here:
Still on the topic of (PH)EVs, my long-awaited long-term review of the Volvo EX30 went live last week. It’s a lengthy read and highlights some of the issues I experienced relating to the software mostly, and the minimalist dashboard. If there is such a thing as too much tech in one car, the Volvo EX30 is it. Check out my review here:
I’m excited to share a new episode of the Recharged in 30 podcast after a mid-season break. Listen right here or in your favourite podcast app. Samina and I talk wearables and health tech. We help you decide between a smartwatch and fitness band, and what apps and home health gadgets are out there to try.
On a different note, I’m not a parent so avoid sharing my opinion when it comes to technology and children. But, in Sanobar Khan’s new Tech with a Toddler column, she highlights an important topic called “Sharenting - Creating a digital identity for your child, or not”. It includes the pitfalls, and ways to safeguard a child's digital identity.
https://www.recharged.co.za/sharenting-digital-identity-for-your-child/
For me, it’s more about letting your child decide if they want their photos on the internet. Shouldn’t they be given that autonomy? What happens when they reach adulthood, and hate that their life is already online? I’m curious to hear your thoughts, whether you have kids or not.
Reads you may want to catch up on:
Showmax to offer SA-made streaming devices:
https://www.recharged.co.za/showmax-streaming-devices/Honor unveils the 200 Pro in SA:
https://www.recharged.co.za/honor-unveils-200-pro-in-sa/BYD to supply SA with its first electric buses:
https://www.recharged.co.za/byd-sa-120-electric-buses/Review: Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD:
https://www.recharged.co.za/review-luigis-mansion-2-hd/SA’s cheapest EV launched:
https://www.recharged.co.za/dayun-yuehu-s5-cheapest-ev-sa/
Till next time,
Nafisa
I have 3 kids. As they grew older we refrained from sharing pictures on social media. And we also advise them not to post their own. The less the world knows the better. Just my opinion 😊
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