Volvo India previews its forthcoming electric SUV, the EX30, offering a glimpse of its anticipated features...
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as Volvo prepares to launch the EX30, a luxury compact electric SUV, in India. Scheduled for a 2025 debut, this innovative vehicle promises to redefine the premium electric SUV segment in our country.
A Modern and Minimalist Design
The EX30 showcases a futuristic design that embodies a modern, minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic. With a blanked-out grille, slim LED "Thor's Hammer" DRLs, pixel-style tail lamps vertically stacked into C-pillars, EV-specific aero wheels, and a roof-mounted spoiler, the EX30 presents a distinctive stance that is both sleek and sophisticated. Measuring 4.23 meters in length, the EX30 is about 20 cm shorter than the XC40 Recharge, making it a compact yet spacious choice for urban driving.
Generous Cabin Space and Advanced Tech
Despite its compact footprint, the EX30 offers generous cabin space due to its long wheelbase. Inside, the minimalist Swedish design uses recycled materials, and the vehicle is equipped with a 12.3-inch portrait touchscreen running a Google-based operating system. This central screen controls climate settings, navigation, and multimedia, while wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, a 9-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, dual-zone climate control with air purifier, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera system ensure a comfortable and connected driving experience.
Advanced Safety Features and Powertrain Options
The EX30 is equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, multiple airbags, and a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. In India, the EX30 will offer a single powertrain option: a 69 kWh battery with a rear-mounted single electric motor producing 268 bhp and 343 Nm torque. This setup delivers a WLTP-rated range of up to 480 km and a 0-100 km/h time of 5.3 seconds.
Charging for the EX30 is impressive, with support for 134 kW to 153 kW DC fast charging, enabling the battery to go from 10 to 80 per cent in just 25 minutes. Additional apps can be downloaded via the Google Play Store in the EX30's infotainment system.
Competitive Models and Launch Details
Given its expected price around ₹40 lakh, the EX30 will compete against luxury electric SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz EQA, BMW iX1, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Jaguar I-Pace (though larger and more premium). The EX30’s compact size, premium Scandinavian design, and long EV range position it as an appealing entry-level luxury electric SUV in India’s growing market.
Initially, the EX30 will be launched as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) import, but it may transition to CKD assembly later, potentially improving pricing competitiveness. It is expected to launch by September 2025 with deliveries starting shortly thereafter.
It is most likely that the carmaker will offer only the Single Motor Extended Range version for the Indian markets. The EX30's interior follows a minimalist approach with a button-free dashboard, and the steering wheel features a flat top and bottom design, emphasizing its futuristic appeal. The BMW iX1 LWB, Mercedes-Benz EQA, BYD Sealion 7, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6 are rivals of the EX30.
The Volvo EX30 is a crucial product for Volvo in India, blending compact dimensions, premium features, sustainable design, and strong performance. This innovative electric SUV has the potential to bring new buyers into Volvo's EV family and strengthen the brand's foothold in the fast-growing premium electric SUV market.
The EX30's advanced technology can be seen in its integration of a 12.3-inch portrait touchscreen running a Google-based operating system, offering features such as wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, a 9-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a 360-degree camera system.
The blend of lifestyle and technology is further evident in the EX30's electric-vehicle (EV) powertrain and use of recycled materials in its cabin design, showcasing Volvo's commitment to sustainable living and premier craftsmanship.