Compact, powerful and eco-friendly: How this new EV is designed for navigating city streets

The motoring landscape in Singapore is evolving with more hybrid and pure electric drivetrains gaining popularity among drivers. 

One of the marques that impressed with its recent electric vehicle (EV) offerings is Volvo, which has successfully melded performance, luxury and safety together, as in its new EX30 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV).  

Its cars showcase the Swedish automaker’s technologically advanced and performance-driven characteristics, expressed in forms that are architecturally elegant, comfortable and among the safest in their class. 

The best things sometimes come in small packages. 

The new Volvo EX30 is the smallest in the marque’s SUV line-up but size has not stopped it from impressing the cognoscenti. The car was awarded the title of 2024 World Urban Car at the New York International Auto Show in March this year, as well as the Red Dot Best of the Best Design Award in April. 

Making its debut in Singapore, the EX30, which will be showcased at The Car Expo on Oct 5 and 6, packs the best of Volvo’s expertise in technology, performance, comfort and safety in a sub-compact form perfect for working professionals looking to make a statement. 

Versatility is at the heart of the EX30’s appeal, with distinctive good looks garnering nods of approval, while its nifty size makes it so easy to drive around the city. A host of practical storage solutions maximise real estate for active lifestyles while minimising without leaving a negative impact as it accounts for the Volvo’s smallest carbon footprint. 

The EV’s intelligent design features ensure that all 318 litres of available stowage in the car gets maximised. Gym goers and even golfers will be able to fit their gear easily, while adventurous road trippers will have adequate room for luggage, with space under the bonnet offering additional storage for shopping. 

Complementing the EX30’s exceptional build quality is a refined nature-inspired interior cabin crafted with colour-coordinated upholstery made with renewable metals and recycled plastics materials. Drivers and their passengers will notice the cabin’s elegant finish as they soak in the creature comforts that have been thoughtfully curated for an elevated experience. 

A squared sport steering wheel and slim ergonomic seats for support over long drives are just two of the standout highlights that will greatly appeal to avid drivers. More enjoyment can be had within the cabin by way of a nine-speaker Harman Kardon Premium Sound system. Integrated with a soundbar, expect no less than crisp and clear tunes for maximum pleasure on the go. 

The Volvo EX30 is a workhorse with a maximum range of 475km. Yet, the drive promises to be a thrilling one with 272hp with 343Nm of torque taking the car from 0kmh to 100kmh in 5.3 seconds. Despite its athleticism, safety comes first. A speed cap electronically restricts the car’s top speed to 180kmh, reflecting Volvo’s commitment to safety. 

The EX30 is equipped with a 69kWh battery that consumes 17.5kWh for every 100km. Charging times stand at 7.5 hr with an AC charger, while a DC charger can juice the battery up from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in just 28 minutes. 

Given technology’s prominent role in our lifestyles, smart innovations like the EX30 app elevate the driving experience through personalisation. Some of the app’s functions include starting the interior temperature or tracking the car's battery consumption. 

Also, drivers will be delighted by the raft of convenience and safety features in the EX30.

A centrally located 12.3-inch tablet-style centre display with responsive touch-controls is  easy to use on the go, while wireless Google CarPlay offers seamless pairing with high-speed connectivity to apps like Google Maps, thanks to a 4G-supported system with coverage even in Malaysia. 

As part of Volvo’s uncompromising focus on safety, drivers can be assured that functions such as Park Pilot Assist, a 360-degree all-around camera, and safety features like Door Opening Alert, and collision avoidance systems are all working behind the scenes as safety nets. 

New enhancements continue across the Volvo electric range to cater to consumers with varied needs.  

A family favourite, the compact EX40 SUV – Volvo’s best-selling model in 2023 – and its sportier sibling, the EC40 crossover with a sleek coupe-like roofline, have received a number of performance updates. 

While the 70kW battery that features in both cars continues to impress with 238hp and 420Nm of torque, both cars offer an improved range. Specifically, the EX40 will manage 479km on a full charge while the EC40 can do 487km. 

When the need arises, they can be recharged in seven hours on a regular AC charger. In a rush, they can be charged up from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in 28 minutes on a fast-charging cycle. 

The new EX40 also comes with a 360-degree camera, which adds to the appeal with families besides  its size and stowage ability across its boot and front load compartment. 

More expressive personalities will delight in the new two-tone paint option that has been introduced to enhance the EC40’s outgoing personality.