Electric Cars: The Basics
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The All-Electric Volvo EX30 SUV
Sweden has created its fair share of global brands, but none with a reputation as good as Volvo Cars, when it comes to passenger safety. Volvo cars is an automotive manufacturer based in Gothenburg, Sweden. The Volvo Group has a long history of success and was established in 1927.
Since then the company has had multiple owners, to include the US based, Ford Motor Company. Its current owner is a Chinese automotive behemoth, Geely Automobile, which acquired Volvo Cars in 2010. Geely also owns the automotive brands Lotus Cars and Polestar.
The automotive manufacturer has an ambition to achieve 50% sales from pure electric cars and the remaining 50% from plug-in hybrid electric cars by 2025. The company is also committed to becoming ‘climate neutral’ across the value chain by 2040. The Volvo electric vehicle (EV) current portfolio includes:
- C40 Recharge Pure Electric Crossover
- Volvo EX30 Pure Electric SUV
- Volvo EX90 Pure Electric SUV
- XC40 Recharge Pure Electric SUV
- XC40 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid SUV
- XC60 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid SUV
- XC90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid SUV
- S60 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid Saloon
- S90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid Saloon
- V60 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid Estate
- V90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid Estate
The all-electric EX30 is Volvo’s fourth pure electric crossover/ SUV. Maybe a late entrant to the Volvo path to a fully electrified portfolio, but no less important. In fact, the EX30 has the potential to become a defining vehicle for the Swedish automotive manufacturer and potentially the EV industry.
The EX30 e-SUV is well positioned to capitalise on two major current trends in the automotive industry. The first, the unabated demand for electric SUVs, and the second, the shift towards more compact vehicles. The EX30 incorporates both these trends.
It is the smallest SUV from Volvo, and built on a purpose-designed EV platform. By way of comparison, the larger sibling, the all-electric EX90 is just over 5m in length (5037mm), compared to 4.2 m (4233mm) for the EX30. Even compared to the all-electric C40 Recharge (length: 4440mm), the EX30 remains the most compact Volvo SUV.
Volvo is not the only automotive manufacturer to capitalise on the the trend to launch compact SUVs/ crossovers. The likes of Hyundai, Kia, Jeep (Avenger), BYD (Atto 3), Fiat (600e), Smart (#1) are just some of the OEMs vying for this segment.
In fact, the all-electric Smart #1 compact SUV and the EX30 have commonality, given that both companies are owned by the same parent (Geely Automobile). Having said that, both EVs differ in design and styling! Volvo has stamped its minimalistic approach in both, the interior and exterior styling of the EX30 EV.
We encourage OEMs to continue to develop and launch smaller zero-tailpipe emission electric cars. Smaller vehicles are not only better for the environment (smaller carbon footprint), but also reduce the congestion on our roads and neighbourhoods.
It is not only the compact size of the EX30 that has caught the attention of potential buyers, but it is also the more affordable pricing. The Volvo EX30 starts at € 44,995, making the SUV a compelling ‘value for money’ proposition for families seeking affordability and quality.
But do not be in a haste to conclude that smaller SUVs are only for those families living in dense city centres. In fact, the EX30 offers real-world practicality for families living in both, urban or rural environments. The Volvo EX30 is available in two EV battery sizes: 51 kWh and 69 kWh.
For the 51 kWh EV battery, Volvo claims an electric range up to 344 km (WLTP) and up to 475 km (WLTP) for the 69 kWh EV battery. But this should not come as a surprise, as most of our journeys are short commutes. The average trip in Ireland is less than 25 km: local high street, school runs, gym, shopping etc.
Even adjusting for real-world driving conditions, both EV battery sizes have much to offer. For the 51 kWh expect a range closer to 290 km and for the 69 kWh, 400 km will be more realistic. For those families or company-car owners that travel longer distance on a frequent basis, we would recommend the 69 kWh EV battery option.
The Single-Motor (51 kWh) variant has an LFP EV battery which uses lithium iron phosphate chemistry. According to Volvo, this battery technology is ‘more cost-effective and less resource-intensive’ to manufacturer. The larger 69 kWh EV battery uses a NMC EV battery, which incorporates lithium, nickel, manganese and cobalt.
The EV offers DC charging up to 175 kW DC. Appropriate, given the size of the onboard EV battery. The 51 kWh can achieve 10% to 80% charge in 26 minutes, while the 69 kWh EV battery can be charged up to 80% in 27 minutes. Like other Volvo electric cars, the EX30 e-SUV incorporates an 11 kW AC (three-phase) onboard AC charger as standard.
For those with access to three-phase EV charging at home or the workplace, it will take up to 6 hours to fully charge the 51 kWh EV battery, while the 69 kWh EV battery will take up to 8 hours for a 100% charge. Given that most homes in Ireland are powered by single-phase power supply, most of us will not be able to take advantage of the three-phase onboard AC charger. Single-phase EV charging (7.4 kW) will take longer (9.5 – 11 hours!).
We recommend a ‘topping up’ approach to EV charging. This way, charging times are shorter and it also helps with the long-term health and maintenance of the EV battery. Volvo offers as standard 8 years or 160,000 km EV battery warranty.
The Volvo EX30 is available in three motor and EV battery options. The entry-level EX30 Single Motor with the smaller 51 kWh EV battery, the Single Motor Extended Range with the larger 69 kWh EV battery and the top-of-the-range, EX30 Twin Motor Performance with the 69 kWh EV battery. Both the Single Motor variants are rear-wheel drive (RWD), while the Performance variant is an all-wheel drive (AWD). For the RWD the single electric motor is mounted on the rear axle.
The Twin Motor Performance (AWD) can achieve 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds (maximum power: 428 HP/ torque: 543 Nm). The entry-level Single Motor (RWD) can achieve 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds (maximum power: 272 HP/ torque: 343 Nm). While the middle-of-the-range, Single Motor Extended Range (RWD), can achieve 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds (maximum power: 272 HP/ torque: 343 Nm).
The top speed for the EV is 180 km/h. The performance for the Twin Motor is certainly impressive and makes the EX30 the fastest Volvo electric car. Of course, the electric car also benefits from instant torque and also offers one-pedal driving. The EV has a towing capacity up to 1,600 kg.
Volvo has kept the exterior styling close to its core ‘minimalism’ design philosophy. It is certainly appealing and is available in five exterior colours. Our favourite colour is the Moss Yellow! The interior also remains minimalistic, which no doubt is appealing. However, the lack of physical controls is unwelcome. Thankfully, the EV has a glove compartment, so often missed in the latest-generation of electric cars.
The interior is available in four nature-inspired options (Breeze, Mist, Pine, Indigo), made from renewable and recycled materials. This is now becoming a common approach with most global automotive manufacturers.
According to Volvo, “we managed to reduce its total carbon footprint over 200,000 kms of driving to below 30 tonnes”. The company claims 25% of all aluminium, 17% of all steel and plastics used in the EX30 are recycled. For the interior up to 25% is recycled materials.
The five-seater five-door e-SUV, though practical, can be a squeeze for taller adults seated at the rear. More in terms of legroom than headroom. Having said that, for families with younger children, the rear seats are spacious. The EV also has a frunk (front storage compartment), perfect for storing the EV cable. The EV offers a 318 L boot space, with a power-operated tailgate. The boot space can be increased to 622 litres with the second row seats folded down.
Though the EV has yet to be awarded a Euro NCAP rating, one can assume that this latest electric vehicle (EV) is also ‘built’ on Volvo’s enviable reputation for safety and relatability.
The EX30 offers a host of safety features and driver aids. Some of these include: lane departure warning, door opening alert, driver alert system, pedestrian and cyclist steering avoidance, intelligent speed assist (ISA), collision avoidance and mitigation, park pilot assist, traffic jam assist and more!
The EV incorporates a 12.3-inch centre display, Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play Store (included for 4 years). Also compatible with Apple CarPlay. The EV does not incorporate a conventional instrument cluster. A pity!
Bottom-line, electric driving is good for the environment and the wallet!
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Value for money. Practical and good quality | Lack of physical controls |
| Available as RWD and AWD. Impressive performance! | Rear seats can be a squeeze for taller adults |
| Good looking and technology filled | Heat pump not standard on all variants |
Gallery
The Volvo EX30 SUV (credit: Volvo)
| At A Glance | |
|---|---|
| EV Type: | Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) |
| Body Type: | SUV |
| Engine: | Electric |
| Available In Ireland: | Yes |
| Variants (2 Options) |
|---|
| Volvo EX30 Plus (from € 44,995) |
| Volvo EX30 Ultra (from € 54,595) |
| EV Battery & Emissions | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Type: | LFP/ NMC |
| EV Battery Capacity: | Available in two battery sizes: 51 kWh/ 69 kWh |
| Charging: | 175 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 26-27 mins). Onboard AC charger: 11 kW AC (0%-100%: 6-8 hrs) |
| Charge Port: | Type 2 |
| EV Cable Type: | Type 2 |
| Tailpipe Emissions: | 0g (CO2/km) |
| EV Battery Warranty: | 8 years or 160,000 km |
| Average Cost Of Residential Charging | |
|---|---|
| Battery net capacity: 16.7 kWh | € 4.00 |
| Battery net capacity: 30.0 kWh | € 7.19 |
| Battery net capacity: 39.2 kWh | € 9.39 |
| Battery net capacity: 45.0 kWh | € 10.78 |
| Battery net capacity: 50.0 kWh | € 11.98 |
| Battery net capacity: 64.0 kWh | € 15.34 |
| Battery net capacity: 71.0 kWh | € 17.01 |
| Battery net capacity: 77.0 kWh | € 18.45 |
| Battery net capacity: 90.0 kWh | € 21.57 |
| Battery net capacity: 100.0 kWh | € 23.97 |
- Note 1: The average cost of residential electricity in Ireland varies depending on the region, supplier and type of energy used. An average for Ireland is 23.97 cents/kWh.
- Note 2: Not all EV manufactures make available the data on net EV battery capacity, and in a number of instances the EV battery capacity advertised, does not state if it is gross or net capacity. In general, usable EV battery capacity is between 85% to 95% of the gross available capacity.
| Charging Times (Overview) | |
|---|---|
| Slow charging AC (3 kW – 3.6 kW): | 6 – 12 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SOC) |
| Fast charging AC (7 kW – 22 kW): | 3 – 8 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Rapid charging AC (43 kW): | 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Rapid charging DC (50 kW+): | 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Ultra rapid charging DC (150 kW+): | 0-80% : 20 mins to 40 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Tesla Supercharger (120 kW – 250 kW): | 0-80%: up to 25 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
- Note 1: SoC: state of charge
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Height (mm): | 1555 |
| Width (mm): | 1836 |
| Length (mm): | 4233 |
| Wheelbase (mm): | 2650 |
| Turning Circle (m): | 11.0 |
| Boot Space (L): | 318 |
| Volvo EX30 Single Motor | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 51 kWh |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 344 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/100 km): | 16.7 |
| Charging: | 175 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 26 mins). Onboard charger: 11 kW AC (0%-100%: 6 hrs) |
| Top Speed: | 180 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive: | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 200 |
| Horsepower (hp): | 272 |
| Torque (Nm): | 343 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Weight (kg): | 1,840 |
| Colours: | 4 |
| NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
| Volvo EX30 Single Motor Extended Range | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 69 kWh |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 475 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/100 km): | 17.0 |
| Charging: | 175 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 27 mins). Onboard charger: 11 kW AC (0%-100%: 8 hrs) |
| Top Speed: | 180 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive: | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 200 |
| Horsepower (hp): | 272 |
| Torque (Nm): | 343 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Weight (kg): | 1,850 |
| Colours: | 4 |
| NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
| Volvo EX30 Twin Motor Performance | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 69 kWh |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 450 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/100 km): | 17.5 |
| Charging: | 175 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 27 mins). Onboard charger: 11 kW AC (0%-100%: 8 hrs) |
| Top Speed: | 180 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 3.6 seconds |
| Drive: | All-wheel drive (AWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 315 |
| Horsepower (hp): | 428 |
| Torque (Nm): | 543 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Weight (kg): | 1,960 |
| Colours: | 4 |
| NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
Air Quality: An Overview
If there is one common theme that unites many of us, it is the concern over worsening air quality in our villages, towns and cities. This concern is not unique to Ireland, but a narrative that is now firmly centre stage globally. The detrimental health consequences of higher pollution, in particular, on the vulnerable, like children and the elderly is significant, and well documented.
According to the WHO (World Health Organisation), the PM2.5 concentration in Ireland is currently 1.6 times higher than the WHO annual air quality guideline value. WHO has described air pollution as the ‘single biggest environmental health risk’, leading to an increase in the risk of stroke, heart disease, lung cancer and respiratory diseases.
Electric vehicles and in particular, zero-tailpipe emission EVs, also known as battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), help improve local air quality i.e. a pure electric car does not have a tailpipe/ exhaust, hence, zero-tailpipe emissions! Without an iota of doubt, all types of EVs, to include, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), are better for improving air quality, compared to conventional petrol and diesel vehicles. We encourage all drivers in Ireland to migrate to lower emission electric driving.
| Type Of Pollutants |
|---|
| Particulate matter (PM or PM 2.5) |
| Ammonia (NH3) |
| Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) |
| Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) |
| Non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCS) |
| Primary Sources Of Pollutants |
|---|
| Road transportation |
| Industrial processes |
| Farming and agricultural processes |
| Waste industry |
| Energy generation |
| Domestic burning |
| Other forms of transportation, such as aviation, shipping and railroads |
While e-zoomed uses reasonable efforts to provide accurate and up-to-date information, some of the information provided is gathered from third parties and has not been independently verified by e-zoomed. While the information from the third party sources is believed to be reliable, no warranty, express or implied, is made by e-zoomed regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information. This disclaimer applies to both isolated and aggregate uses of this information.
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