Claiming a remarkable leap forward for sustainable mobility, Volvo Cars has unveiled details about its latest design, the all-new EX30 electric vehicle, marking a new era of eco-friendly transportation. With its compact size and cutting-edge features, the EX30 is set to transform the way people navigate urban landscapes. Volvo hopes that the combination of decent specification and low pricing will drive sales for the Chinese owned brand. Arguably, the combination of a premium brand, initial price tag of £33,795 and immediate availability in selected markets – will help the Gothenburg based company to drive sales through the end of 2023 and into 2024 – when it will be available in the UK market.
While the EX30 is Volvo's smallest SUV to date, its exterior dimensions belie a surprisingly spacious and comfortable interior, offering ample storage space for a compact vehicle. Beyond its electric powertrain and use of a new pure-EV platform, the EX30 has been meticulously designed to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainability. Volvo Cars' commitment to what it calls ‘environmental stewardship‘ is evident not only in its zero tailpipe emissions, but also in its increased use of recycled materials throughout the vehicle's construction (as we recently reported). Volvo has implemented sustainable practices across the entire lifecycle of the EX30, from sourcing materials to supply chain operations, manufacturing processes, and end-of-life disposal.
Kristian Elvefors, Volvo Car UK Managing Director, expressed enthusiasm about the EX30's potential to strengthen the brand's presence in the UK market, stating, “The EX30 brings together our expertise in electrification, safety, and design in a compact, convenient package without compromising on sustainability. Its authentic commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving sustainability will strongly resonate with urban consumers seeking an efficient electric car that enhances their daily lives. Together with our retail partners, we are excited to bring fresh thinking and a genuinely new proposition to the small SUV market.”
The EX30 range in the UK offers three distinct powertrain options:-
- Single Motor Version
With 272 horsepower and a 51kWh battery - Single Motor Extended Range
The same horsepower alongside a larger 69kWh battery - High-Performance Twin Motor Version
Boasting an impressive 428 horsepower and a 69kWh battery
The on-the-road prices for the EX30 start from £33,795 for the Single Motor versions, £38,545 for the Single Motor Extended Range models, and £40,995 for the Twin Motor Performance variants.
Preliminary performance figures suggest that the EX30 can achieve a potential WLTP range of up to 298 miles on a single battery charge, with a power consumption rate of around 4.0 miles/kWh. Charging the EX30 is quick enough with a rapid DC system – with a claimed 10 to 80% re-fill in as little as 26 minutes. Furthermore, the Twin Motor Performance version is expected to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.6 seconds, making it the fastest-accelerating Volvo car ever produced.
The EX30 offers customers a wide range of customization options, with five exterior paintwork colours and a series of interior treatments referred to as ‘rooms.' Each ‘room' offers a unique ambience and character, achieved through the use of different textures, colours, and finishes, while incorporating sustainable and recycled materials.
At launch, the EX30 will be available in two equipment grades: Plus and Ultra. Both grades prioritize seamless connectivity, digital integration, intuitive functionality, and exceptional safety, comfort, and convenience features. Volvo Cars plans to introduce an additional entry-level Core grade in the future, providing an even more accessible price point.
The Plus versions of the EX30 come equipped with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen that incorporates built-in Google functions and wireless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay – through a Harman Kardon premium audio system, featuring a dashboard-wide soundbar.
The two-zone climate control set-up has an air-purification system and uses an energy-saving heat pump, while the heated front seats and steering wheel help contribute to quick and efficient warming. A rear camera and front and rear parking sensors help the driver safely manoeuvre tight spaces, and Pilot Assist provides adaptive cruise control with steering assistance to help keep the car safely within its lane. There’s also an 11kW on-board charger and the peace of mind of a three-year/60,000-mile care package that covers the car’s standard servicing schedule, plus wear-and-tear consumables.
Building on this specification, the EX30 Ultra models provide higher levels of driver-assistance with a 360-degree camera with virtual 3D view and Volvo’s Park Pilot Assist automatic parking system. Other features include a fixed panoramic sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable front seats, dark-tinted rear windows and a more powerful, 22kW on-board charger – which can be useful in certain public spaces or if you happen to live in parts of Northern Europe where three-phase supply to homes and small offices is normal.
To help you pick the right combination of price, range and specification – here's the full price list:-
On-the-road pricing
EX30 Single Motor Plus – £33,795
EX30 Single Motor Extended Range Plus – £38,545
EX30 Twin Motor Performance Plus – £40,995
EX30 Single Motor Extended Range Ultra – £42,045
EX30 Twin Motor Performance Ultra – £44,495
WLTP range figures (preliminary data)
EX30 Single Motor – up to 214 miles
EX30 Single Motor Extended Range – up to 298 miles
EX30 Twin Motor Performance – up to 286 miles
Volvo aims to have a fully electric range in time for the 2030 cut-off for petrol/diesel – and it has told investors that this will be achieved while retaining a profitability level close to 10%. Expect to see fully inclusive subscriptions for these cars, from as low as £500 a month.