Volvo launching new electric SUV in South Africa – and it will be one of the most affordable cars it sells

·7 Jun 2023

Volvo has announced that its new fully-electric EX30 will hit the showroom floors in early 2024 with a starting price of R775,900.

This price stage makes the incoming EX30 one of the cheapest models Volvo has on offer in South Africa, sitting just above the XC40 models ranging from R677,700 to R769,700.

This also has the potential to make the EX30 one of the cheapest full-size electric vehicles (EVs) in South Africa, following the announcement that GWM plans to bring its electric hatchback – the Ora – to South Africa at a starting price of R716,900.

Pre-orders will open on Thursday (8 June 2023).

“Despite these impressive performance and range credentials, the new EX30 will touch down as one of the most accessible models in the local line-up and looks poised to become one of the most affordable full-size contenders in South Africa’s growing EV segment,” said Volvo SA.

Features

The new EX30 rides on the Swedish luxury carmaker’s purpose-built modular Sustainable Electric Architecture and measures 4,233 mm long, 1,836 mm wide and 1,555 tall – with a wheelbase of 2 650 mm.

That means it’s only 192 mm shorter from nose to tail than the XC40, though it makes no compromises on the safety front, offering new collision-avoidance technology, the latest driver-understanding system and various safety innovations, said Volvo.

Internally, Volvo described the EX30 as “modern” and “minimalistic” while bearing a stark resemblance to the recently launched C40 Recharge – designed with recycled and renewable materials.

The electric SUV will also feature a 12.3-inch high-resolution central display (running the latest Android-powered infotainment system), a digital key, over-the-air update functionality and a “first-of-its-kind” audio-system soundbar.

Performance

According to Volvo, both Single Motor and Twin Motor derivatives of the EX30 will be available, while battery choices will include high-voltage 51 kWh and 69 kWh units.

Three trim levels – Core, Plus, and Ultra – will be on offer, though even the base grade will provide generous levels of standard equipment.

The new EX30 will debut as the fastest-accelerating Volvo ever, completing the 0-100 km/h sprint in a mere 3.6 seconds in 315 kW Twin Motor Performance guise.

The extended-range version of the Single Motor (rear-wheel drive) powertrain, meanwhile, is capable of covering up to 480km on the WLTP cycle.

“The EX30 represents another significant step towards Volvo’s goal of half its global sales volume comprising fully electric cars by 2025, with the remainder taking the form of hybrids,” said Volvo.

“By 2030, the Swedish luxury firm plans for every new vehicle it sells to be completely electric, demonstrating its steadfast commitment to a zero-emission future,” it added.

Pricing

The South African pricing for the upcoming Volvo EX30 is as follows: