Volvo's baby electric SUV, EX30, now on sale with range of up to 300 miles
Cross Country model on the way
The all-new Volvo EX30 has been revealed as the Swedish firm’s new entry-level electric model. It’s the second EX-badged model to be shown by the company, the first being the EX90, its flagship seven-seat electric SUV.
However, while that car came with a high price tag, the EX30 is far more reasonable. Order books are open now, and the EX30 starts from £33,795, some £13,000 less than the cheapest electric Volvo XC40 and undercutting a number of premium rivals.
That price is for the entry-level Plus model in Single Motor guise, while the Extended Range version costs £38,545. The Twin Motor Performance model in Plus trim costs £40,995, while upgrading the Extended Range and Performance versions to Ultra trim costs £3,500 extra. Volvo has confirmed that a cheaper Core model will join the range later in 2024.
Unmistakably a Volvo
The EX30 is 4.2 metres long, so it’s around 200mm shorter than the Volvo XC40, but it’s also 30mm wider, while a substantial wheelbase (the distance between the centre of the front and rear wheels) of 2,650mm is designed to maximise interior space. As the pictures show, the wheels are pushed far into each corner.
Familiar design cues, such as a stylised version of Volvo’s ‘Thor’s Hammer’ daytime running light signature, a blank grille and contrast roof ensure the EX30 is unmistakably a Volvo, while bright exterior colours will be offered, too.
Inside, the EX30 features a typically minimalist cabin design, while Volvo has included a large portrait-style touchscreen that’s flanked by stylised air vents, plus frameless mirrors add to the upmarket ambience.
The cabin controls work in conjunction with an owner’s smartphone, and Volvo’s Google-based operating system is designed to offer greater connectivity and remote services than ever before.
Three powertrains, two batteries
Under the skin, the new Volvo EX30 will be offered with three powertrain options and two battery capacities. The Single Motor model features a lithium iron phosphate pack, which is a more cost-effective battery to produce, so helps reduce the EX30’s starting price.
This battery is designed for drivers who don’t need to maximise range on every journey, and the 51kWh pack offers up to 214 miles on a full charge. It sends energy to a rear-mounted 268bhp electric motor, which gives the EX30 a 0-60mph time of 5.4 seconds.
The Extended Range model has the same power output as the Single Motor, but comes with a 69kWh battery. This boosts the range of any version of the EX30 to 298 miles, while the 0-60mph time is slightly quicker, at 5.1 seconds.
At the top of the range, the Twin Motor Performance model has the same battery set-up as the Extended Range, but adds a second electric motor to the front of the car for four-wheel drive and a combined output of 422bhp. This version has a range of 286 miles, while the 0-60mph time drops to 3.4 seconds.
Rapid charging is available with speeds of up to 153kW for the 69kWh battery and 134kW for the 51kWh version. Both batteries can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in around 25 minutes from a powerful enough DC charging source.
On top of that, smartphone app connectivity will allow owners to schedule charging times, maximum charging rates and for charging to stop when the battery reaches a set capacity.
Safety and sustainability part of the package
As well as the usual raft of safety systems that Volvo is famous for, the EX30 has sustainability as part of its core philosophy. It’s designed to offer the lowest whole-life carbon emissions of any Volvo. It uses recycled metals and plastics in its construction.
With UK prices already announced, order books are open for the new EX30, and deliveries are scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2024. Volvo has also announced that an EX30 Cross Country variant, with a raised ride height and more off-road focused touches, will join the line-up at a later date.
Related articles
- If you were interested in the new Volvo EX30, you may want to read our review of the updated Volvo XC40 and C40 Recharge
- Looking for other options to go electric? Here are the top 10 longest-range electric cars
- Read how the EX90 aims to be the safest Volvo yet
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