Thabo Nkosi 
Looking for electric vehicles that can handle Africa’s challenges? Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs) combine electric driving with a small gasoline engine that recharges the battery, solving range anxiety in areas with limited charging infrastructure. This makes them a practical choice for Africa’s vast distances and tough roads.
Here are four standout models:
- Changan Hunter REEV: The first range-extended electric pickup with a 621-mile total range, rugged design, and strong towing capacity. Perfect for heavy-duty tasks and rough terrain.
- Leapmotor C10 REEV: A family-friendly SUV offering 603 miles of total range, excellent urban performance, and fast charging in just 18 minutes.
- Avatr 11 Ultra Extended-Range EREV: A premium SUV with a 777-mile total range, advanced durability features, and cutting-edge battery technology.
- BYD Atto 3 Extended Range: A fully electric vehicle with a 261-mile range, ideal for urban driving where charging networks are more developed.
Each model offers unique strengths depending on your needs, from rugged durability to urban efficiency. Below is a quick comparison to help you decide.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Total Range | Pure EV Range | Power/Torque | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Changan Hunter REEV | 621 miles | 90 miles | 200 kW / 470 Nm | Undisclosed | Heavy-duty work, rugged terrain |
| Leapmotor C10 REEV | 603 miles | 90 miles | 158 kW / 320 Nm | $42,000 | Family use, urban driving |
| Avatr 11 Ultra EREV | 777 miles | 205 miles | 231 kW / 367 Nm | ~$37,500 (China) | Long-distance travel, premium SUV |
| BYD Atto 3 BEV | 261 miles | 261 miles | N/A | $26,000 | Urban driving, strong charging network |
These vehicles are designed to tackle Africa’s unique mobility needs while balancing range, affordability, and performance. Keep reading to explore which one fits your lifestyle.
Range-Extended Electric Vehicles Comparison for Africa: Range, Power, and Pricing
Exclusive! Changan Hunter REEV Pre-Launch Review
1. Changan Hunter REEV
The Changan Hunter REEV made history as the first-ever range-extended electric pickup, debuting in South Africa in late 2025 with a starting price of $39,900 (R799,900). Unlike conventional hybrids, its 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine doesn’t power the wheels directly. Instead, it acts as a generator to recharge the battery. This unique series hybrid system pairs with dual electric motors to deliver 200 kW (268 hp) and 470 Nm of torque, ensuring reliable four-wheel-drive performance for the rugged African landscape.
Pure EV Range
For short-distance travel, the Hunter provides a pure electric range of 90 miles (145 km). This is powered by a 31.2 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, making it an efficient option for daily urban commutes. For longer journeys, the 70-liter fuel tank steps in, extending your driving options.
Total Range
When combining its electric and fuel capabilities, the Hunter boasts an impressive total range of 621 miles (1,000 km). This puts it on par with competitors like the AITO M7, while its rugged design is tailored to handle Africa’s demanding road conditions with ease.
Durability
Built to endure tough terrains, the Hunter combines durability with comfort. It offers 8.7 inches (220 mm) of ground clearance, a payload capacity of 2,200 lbs (1,000 kg), and a braked towing capacity of 4,850 lbs (2,200 kg). The vehicle features a double fork arm independent front suspension and a multilink rear suspension, ensuring a smooth ride even on uneven ground. Advanced features like Active Yaw Control, Traction Control, and Trailer Sway Control enhance stability, while Hill Start and Hill Descent Assist make navigating steep slopes easier. To top it off, a 540° panoramic camera helps drivers tackle tight or rocky trails with confidence.
Affordability
The Hunter doesn’t just deliver on performance – it’s also a budget-friendly choice. It offers a more economical alternative to traditional diesel pickups, undercutting competitors like the BYD Shark 6. Drivers will also benefit from reduced fuel costs for shorter trips and lower maintenance expenses. South African buyers receive added peace of mind with an 8-year/93,200-mile (150,000 km) warranty on the battery and high-voltage components, as well as a 5-year/55,900-mile (90,000 km) maintenance plan.
"It’s one of those vehicles that might not grab headlines, but it’s probably going to make a lot of sense for buyers who need to get the job done – and want to do it without stressing about charging every night." – Lorenzo Bianchi, DailyRevs.
2. Leapmotor C10 REEV
The Leapmotor C10 REEV offers African drivers a blend of electric efficiency and extended range, making it an attractive option for those navigating both city streets and longer journeys. This SUV features a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, but here’s the twist – it acts solely as a generator, never directly powering the wheels [5,12]. Paired with a 28.4 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery, it delivers a smooth, quiet ride typical of electric vehicles, while addressing range limitations.
Pure EV Range
For everyday use, the C10 REEV provides a pure electric range of 90 miles (145 km), making it ideal for most commutes without relying on fuel. Once the battery is depleted, the generator kicks in, maintaining propulsion at an efficient 5.5 L/100 km. And if you’re in a hurry, the battery can be recharged from 30% to 80% in just 18 minutes using a DC fast charger with a 65 kW capacity [2,12].
Total Range
What sets the C10 REEV apart is its impressive combined range of about 603 miles (970 km) [2,5,12]. This eliminates the need to constantly plan trips around charging stations – something especially valuable in areas with limited charging infrastructure.
"The range extender technology eliminates range anxiety by combining electric propulsion with a range extender, thus enabling a total range of more than 970 kilometers." – Tianshu Xin, CEO, Leapmotor International
This extended range, combined with its competitive pricing and robust warranty, makes it a practical choice for a wide range of drivers.
Affordability
As a premium yet accessible SUV, the C10 REEV is available in two trims: the base Style model priced at $37,900 (R759,900) and the higher-end Design variant at $39,900 (R799,900) [5,12]. Buyers in South Africa also benefit from a well-rounded warranty package, including a five-year/100,000 km vehicle warranty, an eight-year/150,000 km battery warranty, and a five-year service plan.
Performance-wise, the rear-wheel-drive setup delivers 158 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque, propelling the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds. With a ground clearance of 180 mm, the C10 REEV is well-equipped to handle a variety of road conditions, offering versatility alongside its efficiency [2,12].
3. Avatr 11 Ultra Extended-Range EREV
Let’s take a closer look at the Avatr 11 Ultra, a premium crossover SUV designed to tackle Africa’s demanding driving conditions. This extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) combines impressive durability with the ability to cover long distances. At its core, it features a 1.5-liter turbocharged range extender paired with a 45.06 kWh LFP Freevoy Super Hybrid Battery. Created in partnership with Huawei and CATL, the range extender achieves a thermal efficiency of 44.39% [14,15]. It works exclusively as a generator, keeping the battery charged while the electric motor powers the vehicle. This setup is perfect for regions where reliability and long-range performance are critical.
Pure EV Range
When running purely on electricity, the Avatr 11 Ultra delivers a range of 205 miles (330 km) based on CLTC testing. This range is ideal for urban commutes and day-to-day driving. The battery also performs well across extreme temperatures, from –31°F to 149°F (–35°C to 65°C). Thanks to its 750V high-voltage platform, the vehicle supports ultra-fast charging, going from 30% to 80% in under 10 minutes.
Total Range
For those needing extended travel capabilities, the combination of the electric motor and range extender provides an impressive total range of 777 miles (1,250 km). This eliminates the stress of constantly locating charging stations and makes long-distance journeys a breeze. The rear-drive motor generates 231 kW of power and 367 N·m of torque, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h) in just 6.9 seconds.
Durability
Built to handle rugged landscapes, the Avatr 11 Ultra boasts a dual gigacasting vehicle frame for outstanding structural strength. Its advanced suspension system, featuring a front double wishbone and rear multi-link setup, is enhanced by "Magic Carpet" technology and Continuous Damping Control (CDC) to smooth out bumpy rides. For added off-road capability, it includes Hill Hold Control (HHC), Hill Descent Control (HDC), and a Rollover Mitigation System (ROM). Plus, its 3.3 kW mobile power station feature (V2L) allows you to power external devices in remote areas.
Affordability
In China, the Avatr 11 Ultra REEV is priced at ¥269,900, roughly $37,500. Its long-term affordability is supported by reduced fuel consumption and the longevity of its LFP battery. Export prices, however, vary significantly due to import duties and logistics, ranging from $61,000–$84,000 in Thailand and about $108,000 in Nepal. Similar pricing adjustments can be expected in African markets, depending on local taxes and regulations.
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4. BYD Atto 3 Extended Range
The BYD Atto 3 Extended Range is a fully electric Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) that operates exclusively on its battery, without relying on a gasoline generator. Unlike Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs), which use a gasoline engine to generate additional power, the Atto 3 focuses solely on electric performance. While it doesn’t provide the "unlimited" range extension of a REEV, it delivers a strong electric driving experience, making it a suitable option for regions like Africa, where charging networks are gradually expanding.
Pure EV Range
The Atto 3 offers a WLTP-tested range of around 261 miles (420 km)[20,22]. In everyday driving conditions, this typically translates to about 211 miles (340 km), though actual range varies depending on factors like terrain and driving habits. It’s powered by BYD’s proprietary "Blade Battery", a 60.48 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) unit celebrated for its thermal stability and safety features[21,22]. For added convenience, the vehicle supports DC fast charging at speeds of up to 88 kW, allowing you to charge from 30% to 80% in just 29–30 minutes[21,22].
Durability
Built with 85% high-strength steel, the Atto 3 boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating and has received accolades like the 2022 New Zealand Car of the Year and the 2023 Drive Car of the Year for Best EV under $70,000[20,22]. Its design is based on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, which includes a high-efficiency heat pump system to optimize range in varying temperatures. The Blade Battery has also passed rigorous safety tests, such as a nail penetration test, without catching fire or emitting smoke – highlighting its reliability in extreme conditions. Additionally, the Atto 3 features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, providing 3.3 kW to 3.6 kW of power for external devices, making it a practical choice for off-grid scenarios[20,22].
Affordability
With a price tag of approximately $26,000 in select markets, the Atto 3 combines affordability with low running costs, thanks to its energy efficiency of around 16.0 kWh per 100 km[20,25]. The vehicle also comes with a competitive battery warranty – 8 years or 124,274 miles (200,000 km). However, its reliance on charging infrastructure does pose a limitation compared to the convenience of refueling a REEV.
Pros and Cons
When it comes to range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs), each model brings its own set of strengths and limitations, catering to different driving needs across Africa. Here’s a breakdown of the key performance highlights and practical considerations for each vehicle.
The Changan Hunter REEV impresses with its massive 621-mile total range and 470 Nm of torque, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks and rough terrain. It also includes a five-year/93,205-mile (150,000 km) warranty, though its price remains unknown as of late 2025.
The Leapmotor C10 REEV offers a pure-electric range of 90 miles (145 km) and a total range of 603 miles (970 km). Starting at R759,900 (roughly $42,000 USD) for the Style model and R799,900 (around $44,000 USD) for the Design version, it’s a strong choice for urban drivers. Its DC fast charging capability – reaching 50% charge in just 18 minutes – is a major convenience, especially for city dwellers. A five-year/62,137-mile (100,000 km) warranty includes a service plan that covers scheduled maintenance costs, adding to its appeal.
On the other hand, the BYD Atto 3 stands out as the most affordable option, with a starting price of $26,000 USD. It offers a WLTP range of 162 miles (261 km), but its reliance on charging networks – due to the absence of a range-extending gasoline generator – limits its flexibility for long-distance travel in areas with sparse charging infrastructure. This makes it better suited for urban environments where charging stations are readily available.
In summary, the Changan Hunter excels in remote and rugged areas with its extended range, the Leapmotor C10 balances urban practicality with clear pricing and fast charging, and the BYD Atto 3 is a budget-friendly option for city driving where charging networks are strong.
| Model | Total Range | Pure EV Range | Power/Torque | Warranty | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Changan Hunter REEV | 621 mi (1,000 km) | 90 mi (145 km) | 200 kW / 470 Nm | 5 yr / 93,205 mi (150,000 km) | Undisclosed | Heavy-duty work, towing, rugged terrain |
| Leapmotor C10 REEV | 603 mi (970 km) | 90 mi (145 km) | 158 kW / 320 Nm | 5 yr / 62,137 mi (100,000 km) | $42,000 USD (R759,900) | Family use, urban driving with fast charging |
| BYD Atto 3 | 162 mi (261 km) | 162 mi (261 km) | N/A | 8 yr / 124,274 mi (200,000 km) | $26,000 USD | Urban driving; best where charging networks are robust |
Conclusion
Choosing the right REEV for Africa means finding a vehicle that meets the region’s unique driving demands. For rugged terrain and tasks like towing or heavy-duty work, the Changan Hunter REEV stands out with its powerful capabilities and extended range. As highlighted by Changan South Africa:
"This vehicle shows that electric and hybrid technology can also serve the toughest, hardest-working vehicles on South African roads".
Plus, its five-year/93,205-mile (150,000 km) warranty adds a layer of reassurance for buyers.
On the other hand, urban-focused models prioritize comfort and efficiency. The Leapmotor C10 REEV is a great choice for city families, offering excellent performance and fast charging. With a total range of about 603 miles (970 km), it addresses range concerns effectively. Leapmotor International notes:
"The Leapmotor C10 REEV is the ideal EV solution for long-distance South African conditions where the daily commute is interspersed with spread out destinations, removing range anxiety".
Ultimately, picking the right REEV is about matching the vehicle’s strengths to the driver’s needs. These models are designed to tackle the challenge of range anxiety, especially in regions where charging infrastructure is still developing. As Edna Joseph from SAGLEV points out:
"For SAGLEV’s Nigerian/African market, EREVs could be highly strategic… It solves range anxiety where the charging infrastructure is still limited".
FAQs
Why are Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs) a good fit for Africa’s roads and infrastructure?
Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs) offer a smart solution for Africa’s diverse transportation needs by blending electric efficiency with the convenience of a gasoline-powered generator. For everyday trips, they run primarily on electricity, delivering quiet performance without emissions. When the battery runs low, the generator steps in, extending the range and ensuring longer journeys are hassle-free. This combination makes REEVs especially practical in regions where charging infrastructure is still developing.
Drivers can easily refuel at gas stations or charge the vehicle at home or public charging points, making REEVs versatile enough for both urban commutes and rural travel. Some models boast a combined range of over 600 miles, making them well-suited for cross-country trips in areas with limited charging facilities. With their mix of durability, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility, REEVs are a dependable choice for addressing Africa’s unique transportation challenges.
What’s the difference between the pure-electric range and total range of the featured REEV models?
The Changan Hunter REEV delivers a pure-electric range of roughly 90 miles (145 km), with an impressive total range of about 621 miles (1,000 km). Similarly, the Leapmotor C10 REEV provides the same pure-electric range of 90 miles (145 km) but achieves a slightly shorter total range of around 603 miles (970 km).
What sets these vehicles apart is their range-extending technology, enabling them to cover significantly greater distances beyond their electric-only capability. This makes them particularly well-suited for long journeys, especially in regions where charging stations might be scarce.
Why choose a range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) over a fully electric car like the BYD Atto 3?
A range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) combines the perks of an electric drivetrain with the convenience of a small gasoline generator. This setup means you get the efficiency of electric power while still having the option to refuel at a gas station when charging isn’t readily available. It’s a smart choice for areas where charging infrastructure is still catching up.
Unlike fully electric vehicles, such as the BYD Atto 3, which rely entirely on battery power and need charging stations, REEVs are designed to handle longer trips and unpredictable charging situations. For drivers in places like Africa, where charging networks are still growing, REEVs offer a practical and stress-free way to travel.
