The Volvo EX30 is poised to make a significant impact in the Indian automotive landscape as Volvo Cars’ latest foray into the electric vehicle (EV) segment. Slated for an anticipated launch in October 2025, this subcompact electric SUV represents Volvo’s commitment to sustainability, safety, and cutting-edge technology, all wrapped in a sleek, minimalist design. Positioned as the smallest SUV in Volvo’s lineup, below the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, the EX30 promises to blend Scandinavian elegance with practical urban mobility, making it an enticing option for environmentally conscious buyers in India’s burgeoning luxury EV market. With its compact dimensions, advanced powertrain options, and a host of modern features, the EX30 is designed to cater to the needs of metro city dwellers who seek a premium yet sustainable driving experience.
Volvo has long been synonymous with safety and innovation, and the EX30 upholds this legacy while introducing a fresh perspective on compact electric SUVs. Built on the Geely Group’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform, the EX30 shares its underpinnings with models like the Zeekr X and Smart #1, yet it stands out with Volvo’s signature design language and eco-friendly ethos. The SUV is expected to appeal to a new generation of buyers in India, particularly those in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where EV adoption is gaining momentum due to government incentives and growing infrastructure. With an estimated starting price of ₹50 lakh (ex-showroom), the EX30 aims to compete in the premium EV segment, offering a compelling mix of performance, range, and luxury.
Technical Specifications
The Volvo EX30 comes equipped with advanced electric powertrains and battery options, tailored to meet diverse driving needs. Below is a detailed breakdown of its technical specifications, compiled from sources like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, reflecting global specs that are likely to be adapted for India.
| Parameter | Single Motor (Standard Range) | Single Motor (Extended Range) | Twin Motor Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 51 kWh (LFP) | 69 kWh (NMC) | 69 kWh (NMC) |
| Power Output | 272 PS (200 kW) | 272 PS (200 kW) | 428 PS (315 kW) |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 343 Nm | 543 Nm |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Range (WLTP) | 344 km | 476 km | 450 km |
| 0-100 kmph | 5.7 seconds | 5.3 seconds | 3.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 180 kmph | 180 kmph | 180 kmph |
| Charging (DC Fast) | 134 kW (10-80% in 26 mins) | 153 kW (10-80% in 26 mins) | 153 kW (10-80% in 26 mins) |
| Charging (AC) | 11 kW (0-100% in 8 hours) | 11 kW (0-100% in 8 hours) | 11 kW (0-100% in 8 hours) |
| Length | 4,233 mm | 4,233 mm | 4,233 mm |
| Width | 1,836 mm | 1,836 mm | 1,836 mm |
| Height | 1,549 mm | 1,549 mm | 1,549 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,650 mm | 2,650 mm | 2,650 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 177 mm | 177 mm | 177 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1,830 kg | 1,850 kg | 1,943 kg |
| Boot Space | 318 liters (incl. 61L underfloor) | 318 liters (incl. 61L underfloor) | 318 liters (incl. 61L underfloor) |
Note: WLTP range figures may vary in real-world Indian conditions due to factors like temperature, traffic, and driving habits. Final specs for India will be confirmed closer to launch.
Variants
The Volvo EX30 is expected to be offered in multiple variants globally, and India is likely to receive a similar lineup, potentially streamlined to suit local preferences. Below are the anticipated variants based on international configurations.
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| Single Motor Standard Range | Entry-level variant with a 51 kWh LFP battery, RWD, and 344 km range. |
| Single Motor Extended Range | Mid-tier variant with a 69 kWh NMC battery, RWD, and 476 km range. |
| Twin Motor Performance | Top-spec variant with dual motors, AWD, 428 PS, and 450 km range. |
| Cross Country (Potential) | Rugged variant with increased ground clearance (not yet confirmed for India). |
Note: Volvo may introduce a single fully-loaded variant for India initially, with additional trims added later based on demand.
Price in Metro Cities
The pricing of the Volvo EX30 in India will vary across metro cities due to differences in state taxes, registration fees, and insurance costs. Below is an estimated on-road price range for key metro cities, assuming an ex-showroom price of ₹50 lakh for the base variant, with higher trims reaching up to ₹55 lakh.
| City | Estimated On-Road Price (Base Variant) | Estimated On-Road Price (Top Variant) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹52.5 lakh – ₹54 lakh | ₹57.5 lakh – ₹60 lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹53 lakh – ₹55 lakh | ₹58 lakh – ₹61 lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹52.8 lakh – ₹54.5 lakh | ₹57.8 lakh – ₹60.5 lakh |
| Chennai | ₹52.7 lakh – ₹54.3 lakh | ₹57.7 lakh – ₹60.3 lakh |
| Kolkata | ₹52.6 lakh – ₹54.2 lakh | ₹57.6 lakh – ₹60.2 lakh |
Note: Prices are indicative and subject to change based on final ex-showroom pricing, local EV subsidies, and taxation policies at the time of launch in October 2025.
About the Volvo EX30
Design and Aesthetics
The Volvo EX30 embodies Volvo’s minimalist Scandinavian design philosophy, blending elegance with functionality. Its exterior features the iconic Thor’s Hammer LED headlights, a closed-off grille typical of EVs, and sleek, aerodynamic lines that enhance efficiency. Measuring 4,233 mm in length, it’s compact enough for urban maneuverability yet spacious enough for a family of five. The SUV rides on 18- to 20-inch aero-designed alloy wheels, with flared wheel arches and a modern two-piece LED taillight design adding a contemporary flair. Available in five color options globally—including unique shades like Moss Yellow and Cloud Blue—the EX30 is expected to offer a similar palette in India, appealing to buyers seeking individuality.
Inside, the EX30 takes minimalism to new heights. The dashboard is dominated by a 12.3-inch vertically oriented touchscreen, eliminating most physical buttons for a clean, futuristic look. A standout feature is the soundbar that stretches across the dashboard, replacing traditional door-mounted speakers and delivering immersive audio via a 9-speaker Harman Kardon system. The cabin offers four nature-inspired interior themes—Breeze, Mist, Pine, and Indigo—crafted from recycled and renewable materials like denim, flax, and a wool blend with 70% recycled polyester. This eco-conscious approach aligns with Volvo’s claim that the EX30 has the smallest carbon footprint of any model in its lineup, achieved through the use of 25% recycled aluminum, 17% recycled steel, and 17% recycled plastic.
Performance and Powertrain
The Volvo EX30 offers a trio of powertrain options, catering to different performance and range preferences. The base Single Motor Standard Range variant features a 51 kWh lithium-ferro-phosphate (LFP) battery, delivering 272 PS and 343 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. With a WLTP range of 344 km, it’s ideal for city commuting and short trips. The Single Motor Extended Range ups the ante with a 69 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery, maintaining the same power output but extending the range to 476 km, making it suitable for longer journeys. For performance enthusiasts, the Twin Motor Performance variant combines dual motors for 428 PS and 543 Nm, achieving a blistering 0-100 kmph in 3.6 seconds—the fastest acceleration of any Volvo to date—and a range of 450 km.
Charging capabilities are equally impressive. The base model supports 134 kW DC fast charging, while the higher variants bump this to 153 kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in just 26 minutes. An 11 kW AC charger takes around 8 hours for a full charge, suitable for overnight home charging. In India, where charging infrastructure is still evolving, these specs position the EX30 as a practical option, especially in metro cities with growing fast-charging networks.
Features and Technology
The Volvo EX30 is packed with advanced features tailored for convenience and connectivity. The centerpiece is the 12.3-inch touchscreen, running a Google-based infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drivers can access Google Assistant, Maps, and the Play Store seamlessly, enhancing the in-car experience. Additional comforts include dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and wireless phone charging. Storage solutions are cleverly integrated, with a 318-liter boot (including 61 liters of underfloor space) and a centralized glovebox, reflecting Volvo’s thoughtful design.
Safety remains a cornerstone of the EX30, true to Volvo’s heritage. It’s equipped with multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and an extensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Features like park assist, collision avoidance, lane keep assist, and a driver attentiveness alert ensure peace of mind. The innovative door-opening alert warns occupants of approaching cyclists or pedestrians, a boon in crowded Indian cities. While it lacks the LIDAR system of the larger EX90, Volvo asserts that the EX30 is “as safe as you’d expect from a Volvo,” a claim likely to be validated by crash tests closer to launch.
Sustainability and Market Positioning
Volvo’s emphasis on sustainability sets the EX30 apart in the luxury EV segment. Beyond its recycled material usage, the SUV’s efficient design and electric powertrain contribute to a lifecycle CO2 footprint of just 30 tonnes over 200,000 km, significantly lower than its petrol-powered counterparts like the XC40. This eco-friendly ethos resonates with India’s growing focus on green mobility, supported by initiatives like the FAME II scheme and state-level EV policies offering tax rebates.
In India, the EX30 is positioned as Volvo’s entry-level electric SUV, slotting below the XC40 Recharge (priced at ₹56.10 lakh) and C40 Recharge (₹62.95 lakh). With an expected price range of ₹50-55 lakh, it targets buyers seeking a premium EV that balances affordability with luxury. Volvo India is reportedly evaluating local assembly at its Bengaluru plant, which could lower costs and enhance competitiveness, mirroring the strategy used for the XC40 and C40 Recharge.
Driving Experience and Practicality
The Volvo EX30 promises a refined driving experience, tuned for agility in urban environments. Its low center of gravity and even weight distribution ensure nimble handling, while the suspension strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness. The one-pedal driving mode enhances ease of use in stop-and-go traffic, a common scenario in Indian metros. Despite its compact size, the EX30 offers seating for five, though rear legroom may feel snug for taller passengers. The 177 mm ground clearance is adequate for city roads and mild obstacles, though a Cross Country variant with higher clearance could appeal to buyers in regions with rougher terrain.
Practicality is bolstered by smart storage solutions, including drawer-style cupholders and a versatile load compartment. However, the 318-liter boot is modest compared to rivals, a trade-off for its compact footprint. For urban families or young professionals, this should suffice, though larger households might look to competitors with more cargo space.
Close Competitors
The Volvo EX30 enters a competitive segment in India’s luxury EV market. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Priced at around ₹46.05 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a direct competitor with its retro-modern design and spacious interior. It offers a 72.6 kWh battery, delivering 631 km of ARAI-certified range and 217 PS in its RWD configuration. While it lacks the EX30’s performance edge, its larger boot (527 liters) and lower price make it a strong contender for value-conscious buyers.
BMW iX1
The BMW iX1, expected to be locally assembled and priced around ₹55-60 lakh, brings German engineering to the fray. With a 66.4 kWh battery, it offers 440 km of range and 313 PS in its dual-motor AWD setup. Its sporty dynamics and premium badge appeal to enthusiasts, though the EX30 counters with superior safety features and sustainability credentials.
BYD Seal
The BYD Seal, priced at ₹41-53 lakh, targets performance seekers with its top-spec variant boasting 530 PS and a 650 km range from an 82.5 kWh battery. Its sleek sedan design contrasts with the EX30’s SUV form, but its lower price and longer range could sway buyers prioritizing efficiency over utility.
Kia EV6
At ₹60.96 lakh, the Kia EV6 is pricier but offers 708 km of range (ARAI) and 325 PS in its AWD variant with a 77.4 kWh battery. Its bold styling and fast-charging capability (350 kW) make it a formidable rival, though the EX30’s compact size and Volvo’s brand cachet provide a distinct edge in urban settings.
Volvo EX40 (XC40 Recharge)
Within Volvo’s own lineup, the EX40 (formerly XC40 Recharge), priced at ₹56.10 lakh, offers 418 km of range and 408 PS with a 78 kWh battery. As a larger SUV, it appeals to buyers needing more space, but the EX30’s lower price and newer tech could attract those prioritizing efficiency and modernity.
Final Thoughts!
The Volvo EX30 is set to redefine the compact luxury EV segment in India with its blend of sustainability, safety, and performance. Its sleek design, advanced features, and eco-friendly materials make it a standout choice for metro city buyers in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and beyond. While its ₹50-55 lakh price range positions it against strong contenders like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, BMW iX1, and BYD Seal, the EX30’s unique proposition—compact size, Volvo’s safety legacy, and a low carbon footprint—gives it a competitive edge. Whether navigating congested streets or embarking on weekend getaways, the EX30 promises a premium electric driving experience tailored for India’s evolving automotive future. As its October 2025 launch approaches, anticipation is high for this small SUV with big ambitions.
