Could the Volvo EX30 Single Motor be the best EV under £35k?

Volvo’s latest model, the EX30, is now available in the UK, offering drivers a smaller, more compact EV experience than what any other premium brand offers. Developed by Geely, Volvo’s parent company, the pint-sized electric vehicle is estimated to cost less than £34,000 and is 4.23 metres long, shorter than the Audi Q4 e-tron, Mercedes EQA, and Lexus UX 300e. It will be met with competition from a potential all-electric version of MINI’s Countryman, which is likely to be larger in size. The EX30 is expected to hit showrooms in the autumn.

The Volvo EX30 has been designed with a dedicated all-electric platform, resulting in a wheelbase of 2,650mm: just five centimetres shorter than the larger XC40 yet still boasting a distinctively Volvo style. Characterised by the renowned Thor’s hammer signature lighting pattern and with a bold, upright profile and minimal overhangs, the EX30 features a tall rear glass area. In 2024, the range will expand to include a Cross Country version with a more rugged design, special alloy wheels and increased ground clearance.

It is obvious from the exterior design, that Volvo have tried hard to emulate the award-winning design of Polestar’s top model, whilst offering a decent level of performance for at least half the cost.

Polestar vibes

It is obvious from the exterior design, that Volvo have tried hard to emulate the award-winning design of Polestar’s top model, whilst offering a decent level of performance for at least half the cost. This shrewd move will undoubtedly see the Volvo EX30 sell like hot cakes, in our opinion.

When comparing the EX30 against all other cars on the site, it currently takes the biscuit for best EV under £35k, with an overall score of 48. This is very impressive, as most sub £35k cars struggle to reach a score over 39. Volvo are out to give consumers the design they want, with the decent specs that they need, at a price that is on-par with those of current manufacturers’ entry-level models.

Volvo EX30: performance, battery and range

The Volvo EX30 comes in three models, each boasting impressive performance and range. The Single Motor version is equipped with a 51kWh (49kWh net) LFP battery and has a 0-62mph acceleration time of 5.7 seconds, as well as a range of up to 212 miles. When connected to a 150kW DC charging point, this model can achieve a 10-80 per cent charge in roughly 26 minutes. For extra range, the Extended Range model has a 64kWh NMC battery, allowing it to travel up to 298 miles. It is slightly faster than the Single Motor when accelerating, taking 5.3 seconds to reach 62mph. Lastly, the Twin Motor Performance version offers the highest power output of 422bhp and 543Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0-62mph in only 3.6 seconds, though its range is slightly lower at 286 miles.

The overall dashboard design and layout is very minimalist, with just an ipad-style central computer.

Interior, miscellaneous and tech

Within the interior of the Volvo EX30, the dashboard contains a prominent portrait-style infotainment system and a central glove compartment that is designed for convenient access by both the driver and the front passenger. The overall dashboard design and layout is very minimalist, with just an ipad-style central computer.

No door-mounted speakers taking up space, the engineers have been able to install larger door pockets. To add to the sound system, the dashboard’s top edge serves as the sound bar.
In addition, there is a storage area between the front seats, a cubby for smartphones, and other small pockets in the front seat backrests, intended for rear passengers to use. The middle console incorporates a storage box, and is removable. The boot capacity is 318 litres, and can expand to 622 litres when the back seats are folded.

 

 

Prices, options and equipment

Customers can select from five distinct exterior paint colours as well as a variety of interior ‘rooms’ from Volvo, each with a unique mix of colours, textures, and finishes to impart a special atmosphere. These rooms are named Breeze, Indigo, Mist, and Pine, and feature materials such as recycled plastic, woven flax, PET bottles, and upcycled denim fibers.

The EX30 is now available in the UK, with initial deliveries due in the first quarter of 2024. It is available in two trim levels – Plus and Core – with the latter set to arrive at a later date. Plus model features include a 12.3-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay, 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels, a Harman Kardon audio system, dual-zone climate control with heat pump, heated front seats and steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and a three-phase 11kW onboard AC charger.

Prices for the all-electric Volvo begin at £33,795 and come with a three-year, 60,000-mile ‘care package’ that includes all servicing. Choosing the Ultra trim adds a range of features such as a 360-degree camera and automatic parking technology, a panoramic glass roof, 20-inch alloy wheels, powered adjustment on the front seats, tinted rear windows and a 22kW three-phase charger. This trim is only available with the larger battery and rear- or four-wheel drive, and has a starting price of £42,045.

You can view the details page for this vehicle here: https://ev.center/electric-cars/volvo-ex30-single-motor/