Volvo has tipped the scales in its favor with the introduction of the EX30 EV. Yes, it’s small but it offers lots of space inside and packs more tech than many larger EVs. And it’s small by design. Volvo says it uses a third less material to make than its EX90. Think of it as the opposite of a GMC Hummer EV.

Starting inside, sustainability begins with the abundant use of recycled materials. That or production scrap is churned back into materials used in the EX30. But recycled materials don’t mean cheap-looking. The cabin design has a compelling look, especially with the simplified dash arrangement. And the dash is pushed forward for less intrusion into the driver’s space. A single screen dominates, providing both infotainment and gauges. 

How sustainable is the Volvo EX30?

There is also a soundbar spanning the dash end-to-end. Containing seven speakers, it eliminates door and rear speakers, allowing more space and needing less wiring. That, in turn, saves costs and materials used. Plenty of storage is available with the center console. So too with the glove box hidden away neatly under the 12.3-inch touchscreen. And if you need more than what’s inside, an optional roof rack is also available. 

Both single- and dual-motor options are available. The dual-motor punches out 422 hp, with the single “Core” model offering up to 268 hp. Power comes from a 64.0 kWh NMC-type battery. These batteries use nickel, cobalt, manganese, and lithium combined. With the single-motor version, the range is a comfortable 275 miles. With a fast charger, the EV can charge from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes.  

For a bit more rugged look, there is the EX30 Cross Country trim. This features a lifted chassis, all-terrain tires, black bumpers, and exterior bits. And if you need the EX30 to cover a towing need, it has a 2,000 lb tow rating. Besides the Core base model and upper-end Cross Country, there is the Plus tweener and Ultimate luxury EV. 

Can you order a Volvo EX30 and when are they delivering?

Deliveries won’t happen until later next year, but the order books are open now. The base price is $36,145. If the EV tax credit applies, Volvo is offering an EV bargain. Keep in mind that the Tesla Model 3 base price is over $40,000, with the Model Y base at over $47,000. 

GM may not think there’s a market for a small EV, as it’s killing its trouble-plagued Bolt. But with the cost and features of the EX30, we expect that opinion will prove to be wrong. There’s a reason why Tesla is moving forward with its smaller model it says will be a lower price than its Model 3.