Volvo EX30
The Volvo EX30 is a subcompact battery electric crossover SUV manufactured by the Swedish automaker Volvo Cars, introduced on June 7, 2023, as the brand's smallest and most accessible electric vehicle.[1] It features a minimalist interior with sustainable materials, advanced driver-assistance systems, and seamless integration of Google built-in for infotainment, emphasizing Volvo's focus on safety, efficiency, and urban mobility.[2] The EX30 is built on Geely's Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform, shared with models like the Zeekr X, and offers EPA-estimated ranges of up to 261 miles in its single-motor configuration.[3] Equipped with a 69 kWh lithium-ion battery, the EX30 provides powertrain options including a rear-wheel-drive Single Motor Extended Range variant delivering 268 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque, or an all-wheel-drive Twin Motor Performance version with 422 horsepower and 253 miles of range. The 2026 lineup includes a Cross Country variant with all-wheel drive and up to 227 miles of range.[4] Dimensions measure 166.7 inches in length, 72.4 inches in width, and 61.0 inches in height, with a 104.3-inch wheelbase supporting five seats and 12.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats (expanding to 27.8 cubic feet when folded).[4] Charging capabilities include DC fast charging from 10% to 80% in 28 minutes at up to 153 kW, alongside Level 2 AC charging from 10% to 90% in about 8 hours.[4] Production of the EX30 began in fall 2023 at Volvo's facility in Zhangjiakou, China, with expansion to the Ghent plant in Belgium starting in April 2025 to support European markets and reduce import dependencies.[5][6] In the United States, initial launches faced delays due to tariffs on Chinese imports but commenced deliveries to preorder customers by late 2024, with a starting MSRP of $38,950 (2026 model year) for the Single Motor model.[7][8] The vehicle has earned accolades, including the 2024 World Urban Car award, highlighting its compact efficiency and design innovation.[9]Development and launch
Concept and development
The Volvo EX30 originated as a key element in Volvo Cars' electrification strategy, which has been advanced under the ownership of Geely Holding Group since 2010, with a focus on expanding the brand's portfolio of fully electric vehicles to meet global sustainability goals. As part of this initiative, the EX30 was engineered on Geely's Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform, a dedicated electric vehicle architecture first introduced for Geely-owned brands and designed for scalability across compact models.[10] This platform is shared with the Zeekr X and Smart #1, enabling cost efficiencies and shared engineering resources within the Geely ecosystem while maintaining Volvo's emphasis on safety and premium quality.[11] Development of the EX30 began in the early 2020s, aligning with Volvo's commitment to launch multiple electric models by the mid-decade, and prioritized affordability, compactness, and a minimal carbon footprint to appeal to a broader audience transitioning to electric mobility. Key engineering decisions centered on creating Volvo's smallest production vehicle to date, optimized for urban driving with agile handling and efficient space utilization suitable for city environments.[12] The project targeted a starting price under $40,000 USD to position it as an accessible entry point into Volvo's electric lineup, significantly lower than larger models like the EX90, while incorporating sustainable materials and processes from the outset to achieve the lowest lifecycle CO2 emissions of any Volvo car.[13][14] Production of the EX30 commenced in fall 2023 at the Zhangjiakou plant in China, operated as a joint venture with Geely, marking the initial manufacturing hub for global distribution before expansions to other regions.[15] This facility was selected to leverage Geely's expertise in electric vehicle assembly and supply chain efficiencies, supporting the model's rapid market entry as part of Volvo's goal to electrify a significant portion of its sales.[16]Reveal and production plans
The Volvo EX30 was publicly revealed on June 7, 2023, during a global livestream event held in Milan, Italy, where it was positioned as the company's smallest fully electric SUV to date, emphasizing a compact footprint combined with premium materials and advanced technology for an accessible entry into electric mobility.[15][17] Production of the EX30 commenced in the fall of 2023 at Volvo's joint-venture plant in Zhangjiakou, China, operated with Geely, marking the initial manufacturing hub for the model with exports to international markets beginning in early 2024.[18] In response to strong early demand, Volvo announced plans in October 2023 to expand production by beginning assembly at its Ghent facility in Belgium in April 2025, aiming to increase overall annual output beyond 100,000 units while better serving European consumers and reducing reliance on imports.[16][19] The vehicle's market introduction followed a phased approach, with initial orders opening in Europe and select Asian markets immediately after the reveal and first deliveries occurring in early 2024, with deliveries in North America commencing in late 2024 after facing initial delays due to tariffs on Chinese imports and an original schedule for 2025.[15]Design and specifications
Exterior and dimensions
The Volvo EX30 features a compact SUV exterior characterized by clean, minimalist lines and a bold front fascia, including signature Thor's Hammer-shaped LED headlights that emphasize its Scandinavian design heritage.[22] The closed, body-colored grille enhances aerodynamics, contributing to a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.28, which supports efficient electric vehicle performance.[23] Wheel options range from 18-inch aerodynamic alloys on base trims to 19-inch designs on higher variants, balancing style and efficiency.[24] Exterior color choices include up to 10 options, such as Onyx Black, Cloud Blue, and Moss Yellow, with sustainable paint formulations that reduce environmental impact through lower volatile organic compounds.[2] The body incorporates recycled materials like aluminum in select components for sustainability. Key dimensions position the EX30 as Volvo's smallest SUV, measuring 4,233 mm in length, 1,838 mm in width (excluding mirrors), 1,550 mm in height, and a 2,650 mm wheelbase, which creates short overhangs for agile urban maneuverability.[25] Curb weight varies from 1,830 kg to 1,970 kg depending on powertrain and options, while ground clearance stands at 171 mm.[23][26]| Dimension | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,233 mm |
| Width (body) | 1,838 mm |
| Height | 1,550 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,650 mm |
| Curb weight | 1,830–1,970 kg |
| Ground clearance | 171 mm |