Why We Are Excited For The 2024 Volvo EX30
The fully electric EX30 is going to be Volvo's smallest SUV ever.
Love it or hate it, we are moving rapidly towards an electrified future. Volvo has been one of the most proactive brands in the entire industry, setting itself the ambitious target of equipping every new model created from 2019 onwards with an electric motor. Going forwards, the brand has committed to putting one million electric cars on the road by 2025. By working towards such ambitious targets Volvo hopes to reduce the environmental impact of its products and improve urban air quality. Volvo has the intention of only producing electric-powered vehicles or EVs from 2030.
The brand's first fully electric car was the XC40 Recharge, closely followed by the C40 Recharge crossover. These models start at $53,550 and $55,300 respectively, so are still out of reach for many buyers financially. Adding to the line-up, Volvo has unveiled two additional models the large 7-seater EX-90 and the compact EX-30. Let's check out the 2024 EX-30 in more detail, as it looks set to be a pretty exciting proposition.
Based on information and data available from Volvo, we have compiled this list about why we are excited for the 2024 Volvo EX30.
Range anxiety is one of the biggest barriers to widespread EV adoption. Buyers simply don't want to run the risk of being left stranded, and find it hard to give up the convenience and dependability of gas engines. Volvo is seeking to address these concerns with the launch of the all-electric EX-30.
According to Volvo, the EX-30 will be able to travel up to 275 miles on a single charge. This generous range is only achievable in the single motor "Extended Range" model, while the twin motor "Performance" model offers 265 miles. Of course, the true range will depend on real world conditions and driving style. Once the battery begins to deplete, it is reassuring to know the EX-30 can be rapidly charged from 10-80% in just 26.5 minutes using 153 kW DC fast charging (CCS2). To ensure optimum recharging potential, the EX-30 will "pre-condition" the battery heating or cooling it depending on the ambient temperature.
Manufacturer: Volvo
Single Motor Extended Range
Twin Motor Performance
Production Years
2024 onwards
2024 onwards
Configuration
Rear-wheel drive
All-wheel drive
Power
268-hp
422-hp
Torque
253 lb-ft
400 lb-ft
Fuel
Electricity
Electricity
Home Charging Time 11 kW AC 45A
8 hours
8 hours
Fast Charging Time 10-80% 175 kW
26.5 minutes
26.5 minutes
Infotainment provision is top of the priority list for many buyers. This is especially true for the EX-30, which being the new entry-level model will attract a high proportion of tech-savvy younger buyers. A large and centrally mounted portrait 12.3 inch touchscreen is the centerpiece of the system.
The tablet style display provides buyers with essential information and enables them to control the vehicle's functions. Volvo has designed the system to be a user-friendly as possible, including sensors and an infrared film to make commands instantaneous. Google apps and services are built-in, and Google Assistant enables hands-free control of many functions.
One of the biggest upsides of electric vehicles has to be the fact they are generally pretty quick. Electric motors are able to make use of maximum torque from the get go. In comparison, a gas engine has to build engine revs in order to generate torque. Consequently, even basic EVs tend to gain speed pretty quickly, even if their top speeds are nothing to write home about.
The Volvo EX-30 is no exception, and offers rapid acceleration. In the single motor variant the 0-60 mph sprint takes 5.1 seconds, while the twin motor version can trump this with a blistering 3.4 second 0-60 mph time. These performance figures are truly mind-bending for what will become Volvo's entry level model.
Variant
Single Motor Extended Range
Twin Motor Performance
0-60 MPH
5.1 seconds
3.4 seconds
Top Speed
112 mph
112 mph
Range
275 miles
265 miles
Horsepower
268-hp
422-hp
Torque
253 lb-ft
400 lb-ft
Battery Capacity
69 kWh
69 kWh
Volvo is a brand synonymous with safety, and this is a desirable quality many consumers value. This is especially true as far as the family market is concerned. The perceived increased safety credentials afforded by an SUV is one main reasons they have become so popular during the last decade. The EX-30 is certainly no exception, and will be available with the following safety systems.
While the details are pretty scant so far, one thing that is for sure, is that the Volvo EX-30 will be available in a rugged Cross Country variant. The model appears within Volvo's EX-30 overview page alongside the following descriptor, "for those who want big adventure with their small fully electric SUV".
Looking at the press image, an imposing black grille will help the EX-30 Cross Country stand out from the competition. There will be Cross Country logos near the lower aspects of the front doors, and the addition of front and rear skid plates. Naturally, ride-height will be raised compared to the regular car and there will be 19-inch alloy wheels to add some flair.
One of the EX-30's coolest features is an optional Harman Kardon Premium Surround Sound System. The centerpiece of which is a home-cinema style soundbar that brings together several speakers into a single unit. Extending across the entirety of the dashboard where the interior meets the windshield, it facilitates neat integration of the audio system.
Volvo claims the setup reduces the amount of wiring and material required for such a system. Five speakers make up the soundbar, and combined with a 1040 watt amplifier and nine speakers, it's a pretty special setup.
The high list prices of many electric cars has significantly deterred numerous would-be buyers. While many people may feel ready to give an EV a go, they simply cannot afford to do so.
Volvo has announced the starting MSRP for the EX-30 will be just $34,950, which helps it compare favorably with many similarly sized combustion engine cars. We are yet to see pricing details for the entire EX-30 range, but if the great base model price is anything to go by, it should prove to be affordable for many.
Trim
Original MSRP
Core Single Motor Extended Range, RWD
$34,950
Within urban areas across the world, space has always been at a premium. The situation is arguably the worst its ever been in many cities today. Cycle and pedestrian dedicated zones are becoming increasingly popular within urban planning guidelines, further squeezing vehicular traffic.
As a consequence, it is simply not desirable to navigate city in a large SUV. The EX-30 provides a great compromise, and should prove popular with city dwellers. The car is 61.0 inches high, 72.3 inches wide and 166.7 inches long. A 35 ft turning circle enables drivers to maneuver easily.
We are all increasingly aware of the impact humans are having on the environment. With many countries seeking to move towards net-zero, sustainability is becoming more of a priority for both manufacturers and consumers. Volvo has long epitomized the ultimate in Scandinavian minimalism, and has already heavily made use of natural materials.
The interior of the EX-30 continues this theme, and four nature-inspired interiors have been crafted. Named Breeze, Mist, Pine and Indigo, buyers are able to choose the color and style which best aligns with their personality and preferences. The upholsteries and other cabin decor has been crafted from materials which are renewable and recycled. "Particle" decor for example is composed of discarded PVC windows and roller shutters, and can be found in areas such as the dashboard and door cards. Another clever use for waste material relates to the floor mats. A large proportion of the material used to create these is from discarded fishing nets.
Benjamin has always had an interest in all things automotive. He is a keen follower of Formula One, and is particularly enjoying watching the rise of George Russell and Lando Norris. He is most knowledgeable about modern cars, but is learning more and more about classics. Currently based just North of London.