A closer look at Volvo’s most affordable, sustainable, and surprisingly quick EV.

Volvo has officially revealed the 2025 Volvo EX30, and it’s already turning heads for all the right reasons. Not only is this the brand’s smallest SUV ever, but it’s also poised to be its quickest model to date—all while sticking to Volvo’s eco-conscious DNA and minimalist Scandinavian design. With production set in China and pricing designed to undercut rivals, the EX30 could reshape what buyers expect from an entry-level luxury EV.

Here are 10 fascinating things you need to know about the 2025 Volvo EX30 before it hits U.S. and European markets.

1. The EX30 Is Volvo’s Most Affordable SUV Yet

The Volvo EX30 enters the U.S. market at around $37,645, making it one of the most affordable luxury EVs available today. To put that into perspective:

The gas-powered Volvo XC40 starts higher, and the electric XC40 Recharge lists for nearly $55,000.
The Mercedes EQB250+—a competitor in the segment—comes in at almost $53,000.

That means the EX30 delivers a luxury EV experience at nearly $15,000 less than some of its closest electric rivals. Considering this already factors in the 25% import tariff for China-built EVs, the pricing is nothing short of remarkable.

2. Built in China, Priced for America

Unlike the larger EX90, which will be produced in the U.S., the EX30 will roll off production lines in China. This strategic move keeps manufacturing costs down, helping Volvo deliver a premium EV at a lower price point.

The trade-off? The EX30 likely won’t qualify for U.S. federal EV tax credits. But given its affordability, Volvo is betting buyers won’t mind skipping subsidies when the entry price is already so competitive.

3. U.S. Buyers Get the Bigger Battery

European buyers will initially get the 51.0-kWh LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) battery, which offers less range (roughly 180–200 miles WLTP estimates) and slower charging.

In contrast, U.S. buyers will receive the 69.0-kWh battery by default, which charges faster at 153 kW and should deliver 200+ miles EPA-estimated range. Europe will eventually get the bigger battery as an option, but Americans definitely scored the better standard package.

4. SEA Platform, Courtesy of Geely

To reduce costs, the EX30 rides on the SEA platform (Scalable Electric Architecture) developed by Volvo’s parent company, Geely. This platform is shared with other Geely EVs, helping Volvo streamline development and pricing.

Meanwhile, the larger EX90 rides on the in-house SPA2 platform. While Volvo didn’t confirm which future EX models will use which platform, the SEA-based EX30 shows how collaboration with Geely enables competitive pricing in the global EV market.

5. Minimalist Interior With Clever Design

Volvo has long been known for clean Scandinavian interiors, and the EX30 takes this philosophy even further. The cabin is designed to be nearly symmetrical, with most controls and displays centralized:

No traditional instrument cluster—all driving info sits at the top of the center touchscreen.
Door panels are simplified—no window switch clutter.
Glovebox and storage positioned centrally, making left-hand and right-hand drive conversions easier and cheaper.

This pared-down design not only reduces parts (and costs) but also makes the interior feel more futuristic and intuitive.

6. Fewer Buttons, Smarter Controls

Volvo’s designers focused on parts reduction to lower cost and environmental impact without sacrificing usability. A few highlights:

Only two window switches instead of four, with a toggle for front and rear windows.
A single multi-function seat adjustment button replaces separate controls for base and backrest.

These small but thoughtful details keep the cabin uncluttered while supporting Volvo’s sustainability goals.

7. Quirky Easter Eggs – Meet the Moose

Like Tesla’s hidden features, the EX30 has fun Easter eggs—in true Volvo style, they’re moose-themed. Inspired by Sweden’s famous “moose test”, silhouettes of the animal can be found:

On the underside of the mini-frunk cover
Inside a removable cabin storage container

It’s a playful nod to Volvo’s heritage and its commitment to safety testing.

8. The AWD EX30 Is the Quickest Volvo Ever

Performance enthusiasts, take note: the dual-motor AWD EX30 is expected to sprint from 0–60 mph in 3.5 seconds. That makes it:

The fastest Volvo ever built, quicker than the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge.
Nearly on par with performance EVs like the Kia EV6 GT (3.2 seconds).

Volvo has a track record of under-promising and over-delivering on acceleration, meaning real-world results may be even quicker.

9. Built With Recycled Materials and Renewable Energy

Sustainability is baked into the EX30’s DNA:

25% of the aluminum, 17% of the steel, and 17% of the plastics are recycled.
The Chinese factory building the EX30 uses 100% climate-neutral electricity.
95% of Tier 1 suppliers are committed to switching to renewable energy by 2025.

This makes the EX30 not only one of Volvo’s greenest vehicles to date but also one of the most sustainable EVs in its segment.

10. A Rugged Cross Country Edition Is Coming

Volvo confirmed a Cross Country EX30 is on the way, offering:

Extra ground clearance
Protective body cladding
All-terrain tires

This variant will expand the EX30’s appeal to buyers who want a more adventurous, off-road-capable EV. It also reinforces Volvo’s tradition of rugged Cross Country trims across its lineup.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Volvo EX30 isn’t just another entry-level electric SUV—it’s a bold move that blends affordability, performance, and sustainability into a stylish package. With a starting price under $38K, lightning-quick AWD performance, clever design, and eco-conscious manufacturing, the EX30 may well become Volvo’s breakout EV success.

It’s small, it’s quick, it’s green—and it’s a Volvo through and through.