Bucket Tech: Changan Hunter K50 REEV

The South African bakkie market has become one of the most competitive segments in the automotive industry, and we are seeing more and more manufacturers bringing products to our shores that challenge the traditional way of doing things. The Changan Hunter REEV Double Cab is perhaps one of the most interesting examples of this, because it isn't simply another double-cab bakkie entering an already crowded market. Instead, it introduces a completely different approach to electrification. The Hunter is claimed to be the world's first range-extended electric double-cab bakkie, combining a 31.2kWh battery pack with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that acts as an onboard generator. The electric drivetrain produces a claimed 200kW and a staggering 3 470Nm of torque. Changan also claims that the Hunter can achieve more than 1 000km of range, which immediately caught my attention. I had high expectations for the Hunter. The idea of having the performance and smoothness of an electric vehicle, while still having a petrol engine available to extend your range, sounds like an ideal solution for the South African market. After spending some time with the Hunter, however, I found myself impressed by the vehicle in many areas, but slightly disappointed by others.

DESIGN

There is no denying that the Changan Hunter is a striking-looking bakkie. My particular test vehicle came finished in a dark green/olive colour, and I think this suited the Hunter exceptionally well. It gave the vehicle a rugged, almost military-inspired appearance, while also allowing the numerous design details to stand out. The Hunter is imposing. It has a large and aggressive front end, a bold grille treatment and distinctive lighting that immediately gives it a strong road presence. It doesn't look like Changan has tried to copy any of the established players in the bakkie market either, which I really appreciate. There is a certain individuality to the Hunter. From the side, the proportions are typical of a large double-cab bakkie, but the sculpted bodywork, pronounced wheel arches and large wheels give it plenty of character. It has that elevated stance that you expect from a modern bakkie, while the design manages to blend ruggedness with a more futuristic appearance. The rear continues the same theme, with chunky styling and a strong stance. I found myself looking back at the Hunter whenever I parked it, which is always a good indication that a designer has got something right. The dark green paint also helped tremendously. While the Hunter would certainly stand out in almost any colour, the olive shade gave it a distinctive character that made it feel different from the usual white, silver and grey bakkies that dominate our roads. For me, the design is one of the Hunter's biggest strengths, it looks expensive, it looks tough and, most importantly, it looks different.

PERFORMANCE

This is where the Hunter really starts to become interesting, the REEV system is what sets this bakkie apart from almost everything else currently available. Rather than being a conventional petrol or diesel bakkie, the Hunter uses its electric drivetrain to power the wheels, with the 31.2kWh battery providing the energy and the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine acting as an onboard generator. The result is an incredibly smooth driving experience. The claimed 200kW output makes the Hunter seriously quick, particularly for a vehicle of this size. But it is the claimed 3 470Nm of torque that really grabs your attention. Electric motors are brilliant at delivering instant torque, and the Hunter is no exception. Put your foot down and the response is immediate. There is no waiting for a turbocharger to spool up or for a conventional gearbox to find the correct ratio. The Hunter simply moves. And it moves very quickly, Overtaking on the highway is effortless, while pulling away from traffic lights can be surprisingly entertaining. The power delivery is smooth and linear, making the Hunter feel much more like an electric SUV than a traditional bakkie. For everyday driving, I genuinely enjoyed the experience, starting the vehicle is slightly unconventional. There isn't a traditional start/stop button that you press before driving away. Instead, you simply get into the vehicle, press the brake pedal and you're ready to go. It takes a little getting used to, particularly if you've spent years driving conventional vehicles, but once you understand the system, it becomes second nature. The Hunter also surprised me off-road, I'll be honest, I was initially a little hesitant about taking it off-road. Having a large battery pack underneath the vehicle and an electric drivetrain naturally makes you think twice when you are dealing with rocks, uneven terrain and obstacles. However, the Hunter coped remarkably well, the electric drivetrain actually works in its favour when driving slowly over difficult terrain. The immediate torque delivery allows for very precise throttle inputs, and the vehicle felt composed and comfortable when the road disappeared beneath the wheels. It gave me more confidence than I expected, where I was less impressed was the real-world range. Changan's claim of more than 1 000km was one of the major reasons I was so interested in testing the Hunter. In theory, this range-extended system should offer the best of both worlds: electric driving around town and the reassurance of a petrol generator when travelling long distances. Unfortunately, my experience didn't quite live up to the expectations created by that 1 000km-plus figure. Having done a long distance journey with it, the Hunter struggled to give me 600km from the "tank of fuel" with me having to top up in fear of running out of fuel before I reach my destination. This was probably my biggest disappointment with the vehicle.

COMFORT & TECHNOLOGY

Inside the Hunter, Changan has created a cabin that feels much more like an SUV than a traditional workhorse. The driving position is commanding, visibility is good and there is plenty of space for occupants. The cabin is modern and packed with technology, which is exactly what buyers in this segment are increasingly demanding. The days when a double-cab bakkie was simply a work vehicle are long gone. These vehicles are now family cars, lifestyle vehicles, long-distance commuters and weekend adventure machines. The Hunter understands this shift, the interior has a modern design and a good level of technology, while the smooth electric drivetrain makes the cabin a particularly pleasant place to spend time. There is also a sense of refinement to the way the Hunter drives. Without conventional gear changes, acceleration is smooth and almost completely uninterrupted, which makes it feel more premium than you might expect. However, there was one particular technology issue that really frustrated me., the wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity. When you stop, park and lock the Hunter, the vehicle doesn't immediately shut down completely. The interior systems remain active for a short period of time. Normally, this wouldn't be an issue, the problem is that my iPhone remained connected to Apple CarPlay even after I had locked the vehicle and walked away. This completely confused my phone because it believed it was still connected to the car. On several occasions, I would return to the vehicle and find that the CarPlay connection wasn't behaving as it should. The only workaround I found was to restart my iPhone. For someone who relies heavily on their phone for navigation, calls and music, this became incredibly frustrating. It is a relatively small issue, but it is exactly the kind of software quirk that can take the shine off an otherwise impressive technology package. Hopefully, this is something that Changan can address with a software update.

VERDICT

The Changan Hunter REEV is an incredibly interesting addition to the South African bakkie market. It is different, and I think that is important, rather than simply producing another double-cab to compete against the likes of the established Japanese, European and American players, Changan has taken a completely different approach by combining an electric drivetrain with a petrol-powered range extender. And in theory, this makes a lot of sense for South Africa. Our charging infrastructure is improving, but range anxiety remains one of the biggest barriers for people considering an electric vehicle. The Hunter's REEV system attempts to solve that problem by giving you the benefits of electric driving without making you completely dependent on charging infrastructure. The performance is excellent, the design is bold and distinctive, the cabin is comfortable and it proved itself to be surprisingly capable off-road. But it isn't perfect, my biggest disappointment was the real-world range compared to the expectations created by the 1 000km-plus claim. The Apple CarPlay issue was another frustration that I hope can be resolved through software. Despite these shortcomings, I came away from my time with the Hunter impressed by what Changan is attempting. This feels like a vehicle that is looking towards the future rather than simply trying to compete with the present. The Changan Hunter REEV may not be perfect, but it is innovative, incredibly quick, comfortable and genuinely different. And in an increasingly crowded bakkie market, being different might just be one of its biggest advantages. When you look at other range extender electric models in the market, the Leapmotor C10 sticks out and works like a charm. Maybe the two companies should sit together and have a knowledge sharing exercise as they both do certain things particularly well but others, not so much. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	Electric Drive Train with 2.0L Turbocharged Petrol Range Extender Engine
Gear Box	Single speed electic drive
Power	200kW
Torque	470Nm
Battery size	31.2kW
Price	R799,900

 

Bucket Tech: Samsung 'The Frame'

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced the global launch of The Frame (HL03H model) at HITEC 2026 – one of the largest and longest-running international hospitality technology events, held from June 15-18 at the Henry B. González Convention Centre in San Antonio, Texas.

Designed for hotels and premium commercial spaces, the new Art TV will be part of Samsung’s hospitality TV line-up. It serves as both an innovative display and a design feature, adding artwork, entertainment and connected hotel services to guest rooms and shared spaces.

With The Frame for hotels, Samsung is bringing one of its most distinctive TV experiences to hospitality businesses. Samsung will continue to invest in hospitality display solutions that help brands deliver premium service, strengthen their brand identity and prepare for the next phase of connected guest experiences, as noted by Executive Vice President of the Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics.

A Hospitality Display Designed for Stylish Spaces

With this hospitality model, Samsung brings the design and functionality of The Frame to hotels and corporate environments. The display combines 4K QLED picture quality with a refined form that fits naturally into premium interiors. Its Anti-Glare panel reduces unwanted reflections, while the Slim Fit Wall Mount allows the TV to sit close to the wall for a clean, gallery-like installation.

The Frame eliminates the need for a separate One Connect Box by integrating key connection components into the display, supporting simpler installation in hospitality spaces. Optional magnetic bezels allow hotel operators to customise the frame to match the mood and design of each space, as well.

Collection Hub gives The Frame its distinct value as an Art TV for hospitality environments, allowing hotel operators to display selected artwork, photography or brand visuals when the TV is not in active use. Generative Wallpaper allows guests the opportunity to create AI-generated backgrounds for the screen - adding a customised touch to their room experience. Together, these features help each display become part of the room’s design, whether presenting hotel-curated visuals or AI-generated imagery selected by guests.

As Samsung’s most premium hospitality TV offering, The Frame for hotels is the first model in Samsung’s hotel TV line-up to support Generative Wallpaper and Live Translate. Live Translate helps international travellers comfortably watch local broadcasts or Samsung TV Plus with subtitles in their preferred language. The result is more accessible local content for users traveling overseas.

Beginning with Samsung’s 2025 hotel TV line-up and extending to the HL03H model, Google Cast and Apple AirPlay support allows guests to share content from a smartphone or tablet to the in-room TV by scanning an on-screen QR code. No separate login is required and device connection information is automatically deleted upon checkout to help protect guest privacy.

Managing Hospitality Features From One Platform

LYNK Cloud, Samsung’s comprehensive hospitality cloud solution, helps hotel teams monitor TV status in real time, update on-screen services and distribute guest-facing content across connected displays from a central platform. With the support of LYNK Cloud, guests can access digital concierge features, book hotel services and order room service through the in-room TV. This gives hotels another way to connect guests with property services directly from the display.

LYNK Cloud also includes Business Intelligence, a feature that helps hotel teams understand how guests use in-room TV services, including frequently ordered menu items or popular TV channels. These insights can support more relevant offerings and help identify new revenue opportunities.

Furthermore, LYNK Cloud supports Collection Hub management on hospitality model of The Frame. With it, hotel teams can distribute selected art content across connected devices simultaneously. They can adjust brightness and colour tone based on indoor lighting conditions - as well as help each display to fit the hotel’s brand concept and room environment.

Availability

Samsung will showcase The Frame for hotels at booth 2442 during HITEC 2026. The new model will be available in 43-, 55-, 65- and 75-inch sizes, with global roll-out beginning in the second half of 2026. For more information, visit www.samsung.com.

Monday Choon: Nicky Romero & FORS - Follow You

Nicky Romero’s latest release, “Follow You” with FORS, feels like a track that is quintessentially Romero, yet still manages to carve out an identity of its own. The production carries the familiar polished, melodic sound that has become synonymous with his work, while the emotive vocals from FORS add a deeper, more personal dimension to the track. There is a romantic quality woven throughout “Follow You”, giving it an almost nostalgic sense of longing and devotion. For me personally, it feels very much in line with some of Romero’s previous work, but with a freshness that makes it stand out rather than simply revisiting familiar territory.

Bucket Seat: Jetour X70 Plus

The Chinese automotive invasion shows no signs of slowing down and, if anything, manufacturers are becoming increasingly confident with every new product they launch. Jetour is one of the latest brands to arrive on South African shores, introducing itself with two SUVs that immediately made people take notice – the boldly styled Dashing and the practical X70 Plus. The X70 Plus happened to be my first experience behind the wheel of a Jetour and, truthfully, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. New brands often need time to find their feet, but after spending a few days with the seven-seater SUV, I came away pleasantly surprised. It doesn't try to reinvent the segment, nor does it bombard you with gimmicks. Instead, it focuses on delivering exactly what many South African families are looking for space, comfort, plenty of technology and attractive styling at a price that remains accessible. Like many newcomers from China, the value proposition is immediately obvious. But what impressed me most wasn't necessarily the long list of standard features; it was how complete the overall package felt.

DESIGN

The X70 Plus is one of those SUVs that photographs well, but looks even better in person. It has genuine road presence without appearing oversized, and there's a maturity to the design that gives it a more premium feel than its badge might suggest. The large chrome grille dominates the front end, complemented by sharp LED lighting and clean body lines that avoid being overly aggressive. It's modern without trying too hard, and that's something I really appreciated. Unlike some competitors that seem determined to add as many styling elements as possible, the Jetour feels restrained and cohesive. It looks like it was designed with confidence rather than desperation. Walking around the vehicle, its proportions work particularly well. You immediately get the impression that this is a proper family SUV, yet it still carries enough character to stop it looking like just another anonymous seven-seater. The cabin feels welcoming from the moment you climb in. Build quality is solid, the materials feel good to the touch and everything is laid out exactly where you'd expect it to be. I especially liked the centre console, which is one of the better designs I've experienced recently. It's clean, uncluttered and incredibly ergonomic, allowing you to settle into the driving position almost immediately. The only aspect that lets the interior down is the infotainment screen. In an era where manufacturers seem to be fitting increasingly larger displays, the Jetour's screen feels disappointingly small. While the graphics are perfectly acceptable, its size makes interacting with certain functions more difficult than it needs to be. Because it's a touchscreen, making adjustments while driving requires taking your eyes off the road for longer than I'd like. Jetour has attempted to solve this by fitting a rotary jog shuttle controller, which is certainly a welcome addition, but in practice it simply isn't quick enough. Navigating through menus takes longer than it should and, more often than not, I found myself reverting back to the touchscreen anyway.

PERFORMANCE

Powering the X70 Plus is a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. It isn't a drivetrain that shouts about performance figures, but that's never really been the point of this vehicle. Where the X70 Plus excels is refinement. The engine delivers its power smoothly and predictably, while the gearbox deserves a special mention. Dual-clutch transmissions have come a long way over the years and this is one of the smoother calibrations I've experienced in this segment. Gear changes happen seamlessly, with none of the hesitation or awkward low-speed behaviour that can sometimes plague this type of transmission. Whether crawling through traffic or cruising on the open road, it always seemed to be in the right gear. Ride quality also deserves praise. The suspension strikes a pleasing balance between comfort and body control, soaking up road imperfections without becoming overly soft. It's a vehicle that encourages relaxed driving rather than spirited corner carving, and that's exactly how a family SUV should behave. Fuel consumption was another pleasant surprise. While I certainly wouldn't describe it as exceptionally frugal, it proved to be noticeably lighter on fuel than several other Chinese SUVs I've driven recently. That's encouraging, although there's still room for improvement. If fuel efficiency is your absolute priority, there are alternatives that perform better, but for a seven-seater of this size, it's perfectly acceptable.

COMFORT

This is where the X70 Plus really begins to make sense. Space has clearly been prioritised and it's something you'll appreciate every time you load the family in for a weekend away. The first and second rows offer generous levels of comfort, while the third row provides useful flexibility for children or those occasional extra passengers. The seats are supportive without being overly firm, visibility is good and the overall driving position feels natural. After spending extended time behind the wheel, fatigue simply wasn't an issue, which says a lot about the vehicle's ergonomics. Jetour has also done an impressive job with standard specification. There's very little that feels missing. Modern connectivity, convenience features and safety technology are all present, making the X70 Plus feel every bit as well equipped as rivals costing considerably more. It's this combination of practicality and features that gives the X70 Plus its strongest selling point. You never feel like you're driving a budget SUV. Instead, it feels like a vehicle that punches well above its price bracket.

VERDICT

The X70 Plus has done exactly what a launch product should do—it gives buyers confidence in the brand. As my first experience with Jetour, I walked away impressed. The styling is attractive, the cabin is comfortable, the drivetrain feels refined and the overall ownership proposition is difficult to ignore. Yes, the infotainment screen feels outdated in both size and usability, and fuel consumption could still be improved, but neither issue is significant enough to overshadow what is otherwise a genuinely competent family SUV. Compared with the previous-generation X70, the Plus represents a significant leap forward. It looks considerably more sophisticated, the interior feels more premium, technology has improved and, perhaps most importantly, the driving experience feels far more polished. It isn't simply a facelift it feels like Jetour has matured as a manufacturer in a relatively short space of time. From a South African perspective, that's perhaps the biggest takeaway. Buyers have become far more accepting of Chinese brands over the past few years, but they're also becoming more demanding. Value alone is no longer enough. People expect quality, refinement and a product that can comfortably compete with established names. With pricing sitting comfortably below many of its direct seven-seat rivals, the X70 Plus finds itself in a very sweet spot. You'll inevitably cross-shop it against the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, Mahindra XUV700 and even entry-level offerings from more traditional manufacturers, but Jetour has built a convincing argument of its own. The combination of styling, equipment, space and overall refinement makes it feel like excellent value without feeling cheap. If the X70 Plus is anything to go by, Jetour didn't arrive in South Africa simply to add another badge to the growing list of Chinese manufacturers. It arrived with genuine intent, and after spending time with the X70 Plus, I have every reason to believe it's a brand worth keeping an eye on.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L Turbocharged Petrol
Gear Box	6-speed dual clutch
Power	85kW
Torque	270Nm
Fuel Efficiency	7..8L per 100km
Price	R444,000

 

 

Bucket Scene: Vintage, Vogue & Velocity 2026

Yesterday we attended the media launch of Vintage, Vogue & Velocity, an event that is redefining what a traditional classic car show can be. Rather than simply showcasing beautifully preserved automobiles, the event seamlessly blends classic motoring with fashion, beauty, music and lifestyle, creating an experience that appeals to enthusiasts and families alike.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Camp Orchards in Hillcrest, the venue provides the perfect setting for this unique celebration. With its sprawling gardens, open spaces and relaxed atmosphere, Camp Orchards complements the elegant aesthetic of the event, making it as much about the experience as it is about the attractions on display.

Taking place on 30 August 2026, Vintage, Vogue & Velocity promises a fun-filled day with something for everyone. Motoring enthusiasts can admire an impressive collection of classic and vintage vehicles, each with its own story and timeless appeal. Fashion lovers will be treated to stunning displays of exquisite garments as models showcase a range of elegant and contemporary designs throughout the day, while live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

Adding a touch of sophistication to the occasion, the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra will captivate attendees with a selection of beautiful melodies, creating a truly unique ambience that perfectly complements the elegance of the classic cars and fashion displays. It's not every day that visitors can experience the harmonious blend of orchestral music, timeless motoring and high fashion in such a picturesque setting.

The event has also been designed with families in mind. Visitors can enjoy the on-site café, or opt for a leisurely afternoon by purchasing one of the available picnic baskets and relaxing on the beautiful grounds while taking in the sights and sounds around them.

Whether you're passionate about classic cars, have an appreciation for fashion and beauty, or are simply looking for a memorable day out with family and friends, Vintage, Vogue & Velocity promises to deliver a unique lifestyle experience that brings together style, heritage and entertainment in one unforgettable event.

More details on tickets will be made available soon, stay tuned to their social media channels for more and a chance to win a picnic basket for the day!

Monday Choon: Ronski Speed - Nuru Mpya

 

Today's featured track was debuted at Anjunabeats Volume 17 live set about a month ago and I've been itching for it to be released since! German DJ Ronski Speed who has been on the trance music seen since 1997 has knocked this one out the park, Nuru Mpya is probably for me, one of the best songs to be created in 2026. The levels, the beats, the build up and the drops and how they all sync with the vocals is just electrifying and made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up when I heard it for the first. He official released the track last week Wednesday and I've been listening to it nonstop since. 

Bucket Seat: Geely E2 Apex

Electric vehicles have always been a difficult sell in South Africa. Between concerns over driving range, limited public charging infrastructure and premium pricing, many motorists have remained hesitant to make the switch. But after spending time with the new Geely E2 Apex, I genuinely believe this is one of the first electric cars that removes many of those barriers. It offers a compelling combination of affordability, practicality and everyday usability, making it an excellent entry point for anyone curious about starting their EV journey. I drove the range-topping Apex derivative, which naturally comes loaded with features, but what impressed me even more is that the entry-level Aspire model doesn't feel stripped back either. Geely has managed to create a package that delivers exceptional value regardless of which model you choose.

DESIGN

The Geely E2 is one of those cars that immediately grows on you. It has a playful, youthful personality with smooth flowing lines and rounded body panels that give it a modern, approachable appearance. There's no denying that it carries a hint of Tesla-inspired styling, particularly in its clean, minimalist design language, but it still has enough character to stand on its own. Its compact proportions make it perfectly suited to urban environments, while the aerodynamic silhouette gives the little hatchback a surprisingly premium presence on the road. It's a design that feels contemporary without trying too hard, and it's likely to appeal to younger buyers as well as families looking for an economical second vehicle. Inside, the cabin follows the familiar recipe we've come to expect from many modern Chinese manufacturers. A large central infotainment display dominates the dashboard, while a compact digital instrument cluster provides the essential driving information. The overall layout is clean and uncluttered, creating an airy cabin that feels more spacious than the car's exterior dimensions would suggest.

PERFORMANCE

The Geely E2 isn't designed to be a performance EV, but that's not what it's trying to achieve. Instead, it focuses on delivering smooth, effortless electric motoring that perfectly suits daily commuting. With a claimed driving range of 325km on a full charge, the E2 offers more than enough range for the average South African motorist. For many people, that's easily enough to cover an entire week's commute without needing to plug in every evening. That alone goes a long way towards easing the range anxiety that still discourages many potential EV buyers. Charging is equally straightforward. Every E2 comes with a home wallbox charger included in the purchase price, making overnight charging convenient for owners with dedicated parking. I also charged the vehicle using a standard three-pin household plug, which took approximately 12 hours to replenish the battery overnight. While considerably slower than a dedicated wallbox, it's reassuring to know that virtually any household can charge the vehicle without specialised infrastructure. When you're on the move, compatible DC fast chargers can recharge the battery in around 30 minutes, making longer journeys increasingly practical as South Africa's charging network continues to expand.

COMFORT & TECHNOLOGY

The E2 Apex is exceptionally well equipped and offers all the features most buyers would expect in a modern electric vehicle. The standout technology feature is undoubtedly the integrated AI voice assistant, which proved responsive and intuitive throughout my time with the car. It makes interacting with many of the vehicle's functions quick and effortless without constantly reaching for the touchscreen. One quirky feature I particularly enjoyed was the musical chime that plays whenever the vehicle is locked. It adds a bit of personality to the ownership experience and, for those who prefer a quieter approach, the sound can easily be changed or disabled altogether. There were, however, a couple of frustrations. The smartphone connectivity requires a wired connection, with no support for wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Considering how many competitors are now moving towards wireless integration, this feels like a missed opportunity and slightly detracts from an otherwise modern cabin experience. That said, overall comfort levels are excellent for a vehicle in this segment. The cabin feels well assembled, visibility is good and the driving experience is relaxed and refined, making the E2 an enjoyable companion for everyday use.

VERDICT

The Geely E2 may well be one of the most convincing electric vehicles currently available for South African buyers. It successfully addresses many of the concerns that have traditionally kept motorists away from EV ownership by combining an attractive purchase price with practical range, simple charging solutions and generous levels of equipment. More importantly, it doesn't feel like a compromise. It's stylish, comfortable, easy to live with and genuinely enjoyable to drive. For first-time EV buyers, it's exactly the sort of vehicle that builds confidence and demonstrates just how straightforward electric motoring can be. With strong value for money and a well-rounded ownership proposition, the Geely E2 currently stands out as one of the best options in its class. Against rivals such as the BYD Dolphin Surf and the Dongfeng Box, Geely has delivered a product that feels polished, practical and ready for the South African market. If you're considering making the jump to electric motoring, this is undoubtedly one of the smartest places to start.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	Permanent magnet synchronous motor
Gear Box	Single gear
Power	85kW
Torque	150Nm
Range	325km
Price	R389,000