Volvo EX30 Ultra Twin Motor Performance

Volvo's all-electric ambitions have been bolstered by the arrival of a new entry level model. Is the EX30 the model to change local opinion of EV motoring?

- Ian McLaren, Kyle Kock

What initially seemed like an unlikely relationship, the custodianship of Volvo Cars by Chinese automotive giant Zhejiang Geely Holding Group has over the past 14 years borne impressive fruit. A fan of the Swedish brand, founder and chairman of Geely, billionaire Eric Li Shufu, initially encouraged Volvo (using Geely funding) to continue with the kind of thinking and execution of products that historically stood out for their inherent style, sophistication and, of course, a focus on safety.

While Volvo has since successfully used its impressive current XC family of SUVs to implement a strategy of introducing hybrid and all-electric drivetrain technologies to the market (while discontinuing diesel), the EX30 represents a significant milestone in the brand's history.

Assuming the role of an entry point to Volvo's portfolio, the all electric EX30 is the first model to feature more technology from its Chinese parent company than sourced from Gothenburg.

Built on Geely's sustainable experience architecture (SEA) that in a different application underpins the Lotus Eletre featured in our April issue - this new compact crossover sits below the XC40 and C40 in Volvo's current line-up.

Complete with a single-piece front fender with no provision (nor need) for air intakes, a futuristic-looking array of LED running lights, and alloy rims with intricate mouldings that cover the wheel nuts, the test team was unanimous in its praise for the EX30's plucky, urban warrior styling.

A closer look at this Volvo's dimensions reveals a footprint similar to that of the Volkswagen T-Roc; the Swede features marginally broader hips and a longer wheelbase, the latter is frequently associated with modern EV packaging.