New Mini-Volvo EX30 introduced: Greetings from Smart

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The technology was quickly explained. The Volvo EX30 is based on the electric platform developed by the Chinese Geely group and therefore shares the technology with Smart #1. At 4.23 meters long, the EX30 is Volvo’s smallest SUV ever.

The twin-engine performance version with 4×4 and two electric motors achieves a total of 428 hp/315 kW. While the Volvo EX30 isn’t light at around 1.9 tonnes, one or the other of the drivers will look around when the tiny e-crossover is buzzed under their ears. Because in just 3.6 seconds, the EX30 reaches 100 km/h and a top speed of 180 km/h. But even the cheaper, rear-wheel drive base model with 272 hp/200 kW reaches 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds.

different batteries

There are interesting differences in the batteries. In the entry-level model, lithium iron phosphate batteries (LFP) with a capacity of 51 kilowatt-hours (49 kWh net) provide good energy for a range of about 344 kilometers. The two higher-positioned models are equipped with 69 kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) batteries, achieving a range of 480 and 460 kilometers, respectively.

The EX30 has the smallest carbon footprint of any Volvo model to date. Based on the EU27 electric mix, the footprint over its entire lifetime (200,000 kilometers driven) is less than 30 tonnes. So each EX30 contains 25 percent recycled aluminum, each 17 percent recycled steel and recycled plastic.

jeans at the door

The idea of ​​recycling runs through the interior as well. Depending on the equipment, you’ll find denim fibers from recyclable denim, braided linen, or shredded plastic waste from old window frames and blinds in decor for the dashboard and doors. Of course, recycled PET bottles (rugs) and knitted fabrics made from recycled polyester are also part of the concept.

When it comes to the interior, Volvo designers stick to their simple yet beautiful Scandinavian-style ways. There are several clever solutions: For example, the central glove box is equally easily accessible for the driver and front passenger. Or the variable and partially illuminated storage area between the front seats with integrated cup holders.

Tablet instead of instrument cockpit

A real instrument cockpit is missing. A vertical 12.3-inch tablet forms the command center for most functions. Since Volvo slept with Google, the EX30 is also powered using Android logic. If you absolutely do not want to give up on your iPhone, you can connect it wirelessly via Apple CarPlay.

Of course, a Volvo also includes a comprehensive safety package. For example, the e-crossover has an improved version of Pilot Assist, the robot driving assistant that supports the driver when overtaking trucks. The little Volvo is also a master at automatic parking. The EX30 also has sensors that warn of approaching bikes when exiting. An intersection brake assist, which avoids collisions with oncoming vehicles when turning, completes the safety concept primarily for urban environments.

Low entry price

In addition to Smart #1, the Volvo EX30 will make life difficult for the upcoming Mini Countryman Electric. It’s worth a look at the price list of its technology siblings Smart and EX 30: Smart starts at 37,420 francs in Pro+ variant (66 kWh battery, 272 hp/200 kW, 420 km range), while the top version Brabus costs 44,990 francs (4×4, 428 hp/315 kW, 400 km range). The Smart #1 in the premium version with rear-wheel drive has a maximum range of 440 kilometers. For comparison: the Volvo EX30 starts at 36,800 francs in the basic version, the single-engine extended model is probably at least 43,000 francs, and the 4×4 with the most powerful twin-engine performance model probably starts at 50,000 francs. The first Volvo EX30 will be in dealerships in early 2024.

Source: Blick