First Look: 2024 Volvo EX30

Volvo has entered the subcompact electric SUV segment with the launch of the EX30 model. The Volvo EX30 becomes the Swedish brand’s entry-level EV model, combining a minimalist approach to both the exterior and interior design. It is now available in the UAE and certain GCC markets.

Exterior Design

The Volvo EX30 compactly encapsulates the brand’s design philosophy. Its long wheelbase, large wheels, and balanced overhangs make it look bigger than it is. Volvo fans will know it looks like the bigger EX90, which is planned to come later this year.

We recommend buyers go for any bright colours the dealer offers, as they highlight the EX30’s design elements.

Inside Technology

Inside, the EX30 offers a serene and technologically advanced environment. It features a contextual single-screen user interface with Google built-in, delivering a seamless infotainment experience. Volvo has collaborated with tech giants like Google, Apple, and Qualcomm to provide the best possible user experience.

There are still many menus to navigate to find certain things, but the large screen and big icons make it easy to use. The system also has no lag.

The A/C system is also controlled through the screen, which takes getting used to for analogue button users.

Comfort and Customization

The EX30’s interior design emphasizes Scandinavian minimalism and functionality. The ambient lighting system adds to the Scandinavian touch, with options ranging from the warm sunlight of a Scandinavian forest to the mesmerizing northern lights.

They have added storage functions wherever they could.

The upholstery is almost entirely made from renewable and recycled materials. For example, the EX30 mats are made from recycled fishing nets and other waste materials.

Volvo EX30 Powertrain Options

The EX30 offers three powertrain options, each tailored to different driving needs. The single-motor variant with an LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery is an ideal choice for those who primarily drive in the city. This battery is more cost-effective and less resource-intensive, offering a practical range for daily commutes.

For drivers looking to maximize range, the Single Motor Extended Range variant with an NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) battery delivers up to 480 km on a single charge. This option strikes a balance between efficiency and practicality, making it suitable for longer journeys.

Performance enthusiasts will gravitate towards the Twin Motor Performance variant. This all-wheel-drive model combines the NMC battery with a second electric motor, producing 428 hp and accelerating from 0 to 100 kph in just 3.6 seconds, making it the fastest-accelerating Volvo ever.

Volvo EX30 Charging

The Twin Motor variant supports up to 153 kW charging capacity, while the standard-range model supports 134 kW. This means the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes.

Volvo’s centre display allows drivers to set amperage, maximum charging levels, and preferred charging times.

While the single motor has a range of 344 km, the extended-range model can go up to 476 km. The twin motor can travel 450 km on a single charge.

Safety and Technology

Safety remains a core part of Volvo’s ethos. While all EX30 models have front, side, and curtain airbags, the higher trim models are equipped with advanced safety features, one of them being a bike alert system to prevent ‘dooring’ accidents.

Other optional safety equipment include Pilot Assist, which will change lanes, maintain a safe distance from adjacent vehicles while passing, and adapt the vehicle’s speed to maintain its distance from the vehicle directly in front.

Infrared sensors and a camera detect your eye and head movements. Warnings are issued if they sense that the driver is driving drowsy or erratic.

Volvo EX30 Conclusion

We feel the Volvo EX30 is a compelling addition to the electric vehicle market. While the minimalist interior design might not be for everyone, the EX30 drives extremely well. It gets the suspension spot on for city roads, and with that instant torque, it makes for a fun car to drive.

The standout variant is definitely the Twin Motor Performance variant, with the brutal acceleration pushing your head back and the all-wheel drive system keeping you planted around corners during some spirited driving.

Also, for those who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint, the EX30 offers the lowest of any Volvo ever produced. To put it into context, it has a total carbon footprint of 23 tonnes per 200,000 km—approximately 60 percent of the XC40.

Keep track of the latest prices and updates in the Volvo EX30 buyer guide.