Volvo has unveiled its new small SUV with fully electric power, called the EX30. It slots in below the XC40 to become the company’s fresh pint-sized urban SUV.
The new model features a 400V electric architecture, with a high-voltage lithium-ion battery offering a capacity of 51kWh and 69kWh. A number of configurations are on the table, including a single-motor Standard and Extended range generating 200kW and 343Nm.
Stepping up to the twin-motor Performance variant sees combined output catapult to an impressive 315kW and 543Nm. This is particularly powerful for a compact SUV. Acceleration figures for the 0-100km/h sprint are claimed in 5.7 seconds for the Standard and 5.3 for the Extended, and then the Performance version covers it in just 3.6 seconds – the quickest Volvo ever.
With a full charge, these offer a range of 351km on the Standard, 480km for the single-motor Extended model, and 460km in the Performance (WLTP cycle). Charging using a DC fast-charger can see the battery level go from 10-80 per cent in around 30 minutes.
As for the design, the EX30 showcases Volvo’s trademark ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlight theme, while the rear end adopts a new-look layout with flush sections for a vivid look. Buyers will be able to select from five exterior colours, including Cloud Blue, Crystal White, Moss Yellow, Onyx Black, and Vapour Grey. A fixed panoramic roof helps brighten up the interior.
The interior includes complete Google integration, with the latest wireless Apple CarPlay. Users interact with a 12.3-inch tablet-style touch-screen, and there’s a high-end sound system featuring a soundbar speaker concept with mid-range and woofer speakers for the ultimate in in-car audio.
Volvo says it has also created some unique seats for added comfort and safety, supporting the shoulders and thighs for a more relaxing long-distance trip. The front seat-backs are wrapped in the same upholstery as the main sections, and the slim design promises to maximise rear legroom.
Passengers can breathe easy thanks to a standard cabin filter system, with two-zone available as an option. There’s also a multi-storage section at the floor, with a sliding bucket between the front seats. To top it off, Volvo says the EX30 is the most sustainable Volvo ever made, incorporating special leather-free trim and recycled materials.
The Volvo EX30 is just one of many new models on the way from the Geely-owned Swedish vehicle brand, as it strives towards becoming fully electric by 2030, and by 2026 in Australia. That means all Volvo models in the showroom will be fully electric by those dates.
Volvo Australia will confirm prices and local details very soon, and we will update this story the second the details drop.
