Volvo EX30 revealed as brand’s entry-level EV

Volvo has released the first set of pictures and details of the all-new EX30, which is being positioned as the brand’s entry-level electric SUV that's aimed at younger customers.

1. Extended Range version has a range of up to 474km
2. Twin Motor Performance model has a combined output of 427hp

Volvo EX30: sits on Geely’s SEA platform

The EX30 will rival the Jeep Avenger EV and the Smart #1, and will initially go on sale in Australia, Japan Thailand and Europe. Volvo expects that three-quarters of EX30 buyers will be new to the brand, with a majority of them buying it as a second car. The firm claims that the SUV has the smallest carbon footprint of any Volvo model to date and doesn’t compromise on the marque's famed commitment to safety. The EX30 also has the performance to match the show; with a 0-100kph time of 3.6sec in top-spec Twin Motor Performance form makes it the fastest-accelerating Volvo yet.

Based on parent firm Geely’s SEA platform, which is also used by the Polestar 4 and Smart #1, the EX30 is 4,233mm long, making it slightly longer than the Avenger, but notably shorter than the Smart #1. It has a clear family resemblance to the flagship EX90 SUV that was revealed last year, with a closed-off grille and Volvo’s signature ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlights. It will be offered with wheels ranging from 18-20 inches and in five colours, including a new Moss Yellow that’s inspired by lichen that grows on rocks on Sweden’s west coast.

Volvo EX30 interior

The interior also builds on Volvo’s traditional design form, with the dashboard dominated by a 12.3-inch vertically mounted touchscreen. The infotainment runs Volvo’s Google-based system, which is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Instead of the traditional door-mounted speakers, a home audio-style soundbar runs across the full width of the dashboard.

There is also an emphasis on interior storage, including a centrally located dashboard glovebox-style multi-function centre console in the front and a removable storage box behind it. Four interior designs – termed ‘rooms’ by Volvo – will be offered, all using different recyclable and renewable materials, including one that has upcycled denim fibre in the dashboard.

Volvo EX30 powertrain and battery

The EX30 will be offered with three powertrains and two different battery types. Entry-level single motor versions feature a rear-mounted 271hp motor with a 51kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery. That chemistry, which is more cost-effective to produce, gives it a claimed range of 342km.

The single motor powertrain will also be offered in Extended Range form, which, using a 69kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery, extends the range to 474km, with a claimed efficiency of 6km/kWh. The same battery is also used in the top-spec Twin Motor Performance model, which adds a second 158hp electric motor on the front axle to give it a combined output of 427hp.

The entry-level LFP battery can be charged at up to 134kW, while the NMC models can accept charge at up to 153kW. Volvo claims that the EX30’s chassis has been tuned for nimble driving in urban environments, with a low centre of gravity and an even weight distribution.

Volvo EX30 tech features

Although the EX30 won’t feature the Lidar systems that will be used on the flagship EX90, the firm says it will be “as safe as you’d expect from a Volvo” and there has been a focus on improving safety in urban environments. As standard, the doors will feature an alert if you are about to open them when a cyclist or pedestrian is passing. There are also ‘state-of-the-art’ restraint systems and a raft of driver assistance systems, including a new Park Pilot Assist function that can help identify parking spots and operate in a wide range of spaces. The firm has continued to put a major focus on digital technology, with a bespoke app that offers systems such as a digital key and remote-operated heating.

In other news, Volvo will show the C40 Recharghe EV in India later this month which will be followed by a market launch by August-September.