Volvo is preparing to introduce a new compact SUV to its lineup. Although the official launch is scheduled for June 7, 2023, Volvo has been gradually revealing details about the vehicle. Let’s take a look at what we know so far about the upcoming all-electric 2024 Volvo EX30 SUV.
The EX30: Volvo’s Smallest SUV Ever
The EX30 will not only be the smallest SUV in Volvo’s electric EX series but also the most compact SUV ever produced by Volvo. It will be smaller than the current gasoline-powered XC40, the battery-powered XC40 Recharge, and even the stylish C40 Recharge.
Volvo EX30: Tesla-Inspired Center Screen
Similar to Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y, the Volvo EX30 will feature a prominent central display screen measuring 12.3 inches in a portrait orientation. Interestingly, there seems to be no additional instrumentation above the steering wheel, except for a small housing for the cameras. This design choice not only gives the vehicle a futuristic feel but also helps reduce production costs by minimizing the differences between left-hand-drive and right-hand-drive versions. Volvo has also moved the power window switches to the center console, where they now sit beneath the center screen. This adjustment should also create extra storage space in the door pockets.
An intriguing detail is the driver’s ability to minimize distracting information, leaving only essential data visible while driving, especially at night. This feature reminds us of Saab’s Night Panel, which originated from the company’s fighter jets. Night Panel dimmed the instrument lights except for the lower quadrant of the speedometer and illuminated any relevant gauges.
Volvo EX30: Incorporating C30 Influences
The presence of “30” in the EX30’s name leads us to believe that Volvo drew inspiration from the long-discontinued C30 coupe. This assumption aligns with leaked patent images of the XC30, revealing a sleeker roofline compared to the boxy EX90 and XC40 Recharge. We hope that this sportier styling will translate to an engaging driving experience as well.
Volvo EX30: Built-In Soundbar
Similar to a home stereo system, the EX30 boasts a full-width speaker array spanning the dashboard. This design not only simplifies the vehicle’s wiring and structure but also enhances audio quality.
Enhanced Safety Features
Safety has always been a top priority for Volvo, and the EX90 introduces several notable improvements. The existing City Safety system will now apply the brakes if a car is about to turn left into the path of the Volvo, and it will also activate the brakes for cross traffic approaching an intersection. Moreover, the vehicle will alert the driver if they are about to open a door in front of an oncoming cyclist. Additionally, a new airbag positioned on the inboard side of the driver’s seat will reduce head and torso injuries in the event of a side impact.
Volvo EX30: Exceptional Environmental Friendliness
Addressing the growing importance of reducing carbon footprints, the EX30 goes beyond eliminating tailpipe emissions. Volvo has incorporated recycled materials in the vehicle’s production, with 25% of the aluminum, 17% of the steel, and 17% of the plastics being sourced from recycled materials. The EX30’s manufacturing facility utilizes climate-neutral electricity sources, and Volvo aims to ensure that 95% of its Tier 1 suppliers adopt the same approach by 2025. Furthermore, at the end of its lifecycle, 95% of the EX30’s components are designed to be recyclable.
Stay tuned for more details as they become available, and we will provide comprehensive coverage of the official reveal on June 7.
