Swindon & Wiltshire News
Volvo unveils the EX30 – its smallest, most eco-conscious SUV
Volvo has unveiled its new entry-level electric SUV, the EX30.
The manufacturer hopes the model will help it capture new customers in a fast-growing segment: electric crossovers.
The styling, price, and eco-credentials are designed to appeal to a younger customer. And many buyers, it says, will be new to the Volvo brand.
“The fully electric EX30 might be our smallest ever SUV, but it’s a big deal for our customers and a big deal for us as a company,” said chief executive Jim Rowan.
“We like to say the EX30 is small yet mighty, because it delivers on everything you’d want from a Volvo but in a smaller package.
“Like any Volvo, it’s an outstanding product which is safe and designed around people and their needs.”
The EX30 offers drivers three powertrain options and two different battery types, depending on their needs.
For those who spend most of their time in the city, Volvo offers a lithium iron phosphate battery, which is more cost-effective and less resource-intensive to produce than alternatives, making it the best option for drivers who don’t need maximum range – which still comes in at a reasonable 214 miles.
For drivers who do need maximum range, the lithium, nickel, manganese and cobalt battery produces its energy more efficiently than the LFP variant, giving a range of up to 298 miles between charges.
On-the-road prices start at £33,795 for the single motor versions, £38,545 for single motor extended range cars, and £40,995 for the twin motor performance models.
Finally, for those looking for performance the Twin Motor Performance variant pairs the NMC battery with an additional second e-motor. This all-wheel drive variant provides 315kW (428hp) and will take the driver from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds – making it officially the fastest-accelerating Volvo ever.
The EX30 is also designed to have the lowest carbon footprint of any Volvo car to date. The manufacturer says that by tackling emissions across the entire production and lifecycle, as well as a considerate use of materials inside and out, it has managed to reduce its total carbon footprint over 200,000 kms of driving to below 30 tonnes.
Kristian Elvefors, Volvo Car UK managing director, said: “The EX30 has huge potential for expanding the reach and performance of our brand in the UK.
“It brings together our established strengths in electrification, safety and design without compromise in a convenient, compact package.
“With an authentic approach to improving sustainability and lowering carbon emissions, it will have strong appeal to urban consumers looking for an efficient electric car that’s easy to live with.”
The EX30 goes on sale this week with UK deliveries expected in the first quarter of 2024.
