Sustainability in a bold and compact package. Volvo introduces the EX30, an ambitious electric crossover for the next generation of drivers
Small, but all the more ambitious
If we start with what reliably catches the eye at first glance, apart from the unconventional colour palette, it will certainly be the size of the car. If you think you've never seen such a compact Volvo before, you're not wrong. This is the smallest SUV ever to roll off the Swedish carmaker's production lines. But it's all the bigger in significance. For it proves that pure driving pleasure can be combined not only with pure design, but also with a clear conscience. Thanks to the EX30' s economical dimensions, it uses less steel and aluminium than usual and boasts the smallest carbon footprint of any of the brand's cars to date. Despite its small size, the EX30 doesn't deny the powerful presence of a large car. Katharina Sachs, the model's lead exterior designer, whose design won out over eleven other creatives from around the world, says that from the start she envisioned a car that would resemble an espresso cup: small, but very powerful and expressive.
From neutral grey to luminous "lichen"
Katharina's study and work experience in Italy was not forgotten when working on the EX30, but her love of the rugged Nordic countryside and outdoor activities also seeped into the model. Amongst an otherwise neutral colour palette, ranging from pearly white to light blue and grey to black, Moss Yellow literally shines, an energising colour inspired by the lichens that grow on the rocks along the west coast of Sweden. " At Volvo, it doesn't matter how old you are or what gender you are. This synergy of years of experience and youthful, fresh ideas has permeated the EX30 in just about every conceivable parameter .
Sustainable interior: old denim and discarded window frames
Electromobility is environmentally conscious by its very nature, and the same goes for recycled and renewable materials. For the EX30, Volvo's designers decided to go further and find smarter ways to work with them. For example, they've used fibres from old denim to breathe a second life into the decorative interior trim, and there's a new purpose for plastics from discarded window frames. Woven linen or blends of recycled polyester and certified wool could also be found in the production materials. Inspiration was also sought, for example, in the sneaker industry or in 3D knitting techniques. In the cabin of the car, materials that any environmentalist would be delighted with make up a beautiful 30%, and everything used also boasts a vegan-friendly label.
Tough day? Let the northern lights shine on your journey
The experience for the driver (and any other passengers) promises not only the smooth and quiet operation that comes naturally to an all-electric SUV, but also the unique ambient lighting program that the EX30 offers. It's also inspired by the Swedish landscape: so you can choose between relaxing programs of the northern lights or a summer sunset, for example. All this is complemented by a subtle soundtrack that will relax you even in the middle of a hectic day (all the more reason to appreciate the unobtrusive but powerful soundbar that produces driver-optimised sound). Oh, and by the way: if you're very busy at work, you'll also be pleased with the innovative keyless locking system. Thanks to your smartphone, your Volvo EX30 will recognise your approach and greet you straight away with unlocked door and boot locks. What's more, it will also set up your driver profile itself - every minute saved counts towards the resulting convenience, right?
Travel (and park) with peace of mind
It's worth adding that the EX30 doesn't replace any of the existing model lines - rather, it's a futuristic taste of what the future of individual transportation could (and should) look like. In essence, then, it portends a driving time pleasantly brimming with technology and clever innovations. Volvo has always been synonymous with a safe, reliable and comfortable car, and of course that applies to the new electric car too - those who choose the mid-range Single Motor Extended Range drive variant can travel with peace of mind knowing that a single charge will get them up to 476km (and enjoy a fabulous 275bhp). The EX30 also saves stress for those who struggle with parking: in its highest trim level, the car can do it for you, with Active Parking Assist automatically controlling the steering wheel, accelerator pedal and soon.
The Volvo of the future: bold, dynamic and reliable
At the same time, the new electric crossover combines the desired quality and reliability with a healthy dose of sass: just look at its surprisingly dynamic performance. An all-wheel drive system that goes from zero to 60 kilometres per hour in 3.6 seconds is something you'd probably expect in a sports car, not a Volvo - but here we're talking about an electric car for a new generation of drivers, and that's where forward-thinking out of the box thinking pays off. Those who want their car to go faster than the rest of the market in the future of motoring have a unique chance to be among the first to enter a new era with the EX30. All indications are that this will be no step out of the comfort zone, but an extremely enjoyable driving experience.
