- The Volvo EX30 electric SUV nears its official reveal, with the automaker sharing more details about the model’s interior features and exterior design.
- The EX30 will be Volvo’s smallest electric SUV, and will be positioned below the XC40 and C40.
- The upcoming electric SUV is expected to offer a choice of two batteries, as well as rear- and all-wheel-drive layouts.
Volvo is inching closer to the reveal of its next electric model, with the upcoming EX30 slated to become the brand’s smallest SUV.
So far we’ve seen the EX30 on the outside only from afar, and largely in shadow. But days ahead of the SUV’s official reveal, Volvo has shared a few more glimpses of its interior and exterior, as well as details on its infotainment features.
What can we look forward to in the brand’s next electric SUV when it comes to interior tech?
For starters, the EX30 will feature a vertically oriented 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The system will offer Google Assistant voice command ability, as well as navigation courtesy of Google Maps. In addition, the system will support Google Play apps and Apple CarPlay, as well as 5G connectivity where available.
For those who may be understandably overwhelmed by this much Google in everything, the infotainment screen will also offer a “calm” mode that should work well with the cabin’s minimalist design.
If there is one thing that the cabin may not offer, it’s an expansive instrument cluster. A photo of the interior only shows a small pod above the steering column.
“Inside the EX30 we continue our strategy of contextual and focused interfaces,” said Tom Stovicek, Volvo Head of UX. “On the single screen, key driving information such as speed and charge levels are positioned prominently at the top, with navigation, media and controls easily visible and accessible below. We also include a contextual bar that gives you the most relevant functions for your needs at any time.”
Speaking of new materials, Volvo indicates that buyers will be able to choose one of four different “rooms.” One interior version will feature a a renewable fiber sourced from linseed plants, while another will offer denim derived from a special recycling process. Other interior options will include a responsibly sourced wool blend that will use 70% recycled polyester, while another will offer a structured knit seat material derived from recycled plastics. Nordico, an upholstery that uses material from forests as well as recycled plastics, will also be on the menu.
Yet another innovative interior feature will be a sliding center console that can be reconfigured in just a couple of seconds, with the top of the cupholder sliding out of the way to offer more storage space up top. A tunnel underneath will provide even more clever storage space.
The EX30 will feature a number of current Volvo styling elements, albeit in a much smaller package.
“The Volvo EX30 combines all the best elements of Scandinavian design,” said Lisa Reeves, Volvo Head of Interior Design. “New materials add creative textures, color and personality to the cabin, while smart functionality and a great user experience are the hallmark of every true Volvo creation. Together, these elements distill the essence of a Volvo into a small package.”
When it comes to exterior design, the latest glimpses of the EX30 reveal the familiar Thor’s hammer headlight motif. Out back, the EX30 will feature Volvo’s trademark taillights stretching to the roof—a design detail launched by the 850 station wagon three decades ago.
Volvo hasn’t shared powertrain specs just yet, but we should see a couple of battery options as well as single- and dual-motor layouts. But we wouldn’t bet on huge batteries offering over 350 miles of range. It’s a small SUV, after all.
We’ll see the EX30 in the metal on June 7.
Jay Ramey grew up around very strange European cars, and instead of seeking out something reliable and comfortable for his own personal use he has been drawn to the more adventurous side of the dependability spectrum. Despite being followed around by French cars for the past decade, he has somehow been able to avoid Citroën ownership, judging them too commonplace, and is currently looking at cars from the former Czechoslovakia. Jay has been with Autoweek since 2013.
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