Volvo’s new electric SUV, the EX30, will be priced from £33,795 when it goes on sale in Q1 next year.
The electric model is the smallest Volvo on sale and is expected to become one of its best-selling models.
The car is based on a new platform from Volvo’s parent company Geely, which is shared with the new Smart #1 and Polestar 4.
It has similar dimensions to the VW T-Roc and will compete with the new Jeep Avenger and Hyundai Kona Electric, when it arrives in the UK.
The EX30 has seating for five and a boot volume of 318 litres. There’s also a small storage compartment under the bonnet, for the charging cables.
A minimalist interior sees all the car’s functions controlled via a central touchscreen. Volvo has also integrated the car’s instruments into the display, offering no separate screen in front of the driver.
Expanding the brand reach in the UK
Kristian Elvefors, Volvo Car UK managing director, said: “The EX30 has huge potential for expanding the reach and performance of our brand in the UK. It brings together our established strengths in electrification, safety and design without compromise in a convenient, compact package.
“With an authentic approach to improving sustainability and lowering carbon emissions, it will have strong appeal to urban consumers looking for an efficient electric car that’s easy to live with. Together with our retail partners, we are excited to bring fresh thinking and a genuinely new proposition to the market for small SUVs.”
The EX30 will come with three different powertrain options: a Single Motor version with 272PS and a 51kWh battery; a Single Motor Extended Range with 272PS and a 69kWh battery; and a Twin Motor Performance with 428PS and a 69kWh battery.
On-the-road prices are from £33,795 for the Single Motor versions, £38,545 for Single Motor Extended Range cars, and £40,995 for the Twin Motor Performance models.
The entry-level Single Motor car is expected to have a range of 212 miles, while the Extended Range will offer up to 298 miles. Performance models will have a range of around 286 miles and can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 3.6 seconds – the fastest-accelerating Volvo car ever.
The larger battery has a charging capacity of up to 153kW, while the smaller unit has a capacity of 134kW. Charging the battery from 10% to 80% takes around 25 minutes.
The initial UK model range consists of two equipment grades, Plus and Ultra. An additional entry-level Core grade will be added at a later date, at a lower price point.
The Plus versions come as standard with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen with built-in Google functions and wireless smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay. There’s also an 11kW on-board charger, Harman Kardon premium audio system, an energy-saving heat pump, heated front seats and steering wheel, a rear camera and front and rear parking sensors and Pilot Assist with adaptive cruise control with steering assistance.
The EX30 Ultra models provide higher levels of driver-assistance with a 360-degree camera with virtual 3D view and Volvo’s Park Pilot Assist automatic parking system. Other features include a fixed panoramic sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable front seats, dark-tinted rear windows and a 22kW on-board charger.
Volvo recently confirmed that it would be consolidating its model range to focus on new EVs like the EX30.
The business is also looking to launch its new agency model with its dealer network before the end of this month.