Katlego Sekhu
Mpho Maboi is a renowned South African sports broadcaster and media personality. She is known for her extensive knowledge of sports and engaging presence on both radio and television.
Mpho Maboi is part of the Siz The World team on Kaya 959. Apart from her professional career in sports broadcasting, she is a self-professed petrolhead.
This exclusive interview explores Mpho’s passion for all things automotive.
How did your passion for cars begin? Was there a particular moment or experience that sparked your interest?
My mom says I used to go with my dad everywhere. I think, from a young age, I used to love riding in cars. My dad at some point owed a Chev Constantia—the old-school type.
And in terms of the detailing of the cars, that arose in my teens because my brother and sister love cars. We would sit around and talk about different vehicles. I love the sound of cars.
What are your thoughts on the future of cars, especially with the rise of electric vehicles?
I understand the electrification of cars. The one thing I love about them is their speed. But, being in a country riddled with load-shedding, I have been in situations where I’ve driven into a PowerPoint and that PowerPoint is off.
The nice thing about driving electric hybrids is that when you are driving slowly, you are not depleting the battery because, at some point, it powers itself. I see a place for it, but I think it’s going to be a hard sell in this country because they are expensive and we do need more charging points.
Do you have a favourite car that you own or have owned in the past?
Two distinct cars are old-time favourites. It has to be a Gusheshe 235is which you cannot get for less than a million now. And the other one is the old-school original Mercedes C63.
Are there any cars you feel have been underrated or overlooked by enthusiasts?
I do think Havals are underrated, even though there are so many of them on the road. I wish people understood how much you get in a Haval at a fraction of the price. So you will get everything, but you will not pay German prices.
What’s your dream road trip destination, and which car would you take for that journey?
I’d like to do the garden route in a Mercedes-Benz GLE. I’ve always wanted to do the Garden Route, I’ve just never had the opportunity to do it. I am obsessed with the GLE Coupe in white with the black trim. It is everything! Mercedes has done well in terms of balancing drivability, comfort, and aesthetics.
What’s your opinion on car customisation?
I think there is a time and a place for that. Controversially, I also say there is an age to it. I mean, if you are in your 40s and you are getting here with a car with a massive spoiler, I am judging you. What were you doing in your 20s?
What’s the one thing people might be surprised to know about you?
I play golf. I am learning to race, even though it is for fun. I want to learn how to spin a car. I have always been fascinated by golf. I’ve just never had the time to do it. Golf is so time-consuming. But it is a sport I have always wanted to play. Also with me being in the business space, I find it the easiest place to network.
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