By Ian Strachan.
The plethora of electric vehicles now on our roads has resulted in some major design innovations in cars of all sizes – some of them quite surprising.
The Volvo EX30 is a case in point. Sit in the driver’s seat and what’s in front of you? A steering wheel and that’s about it. All the instruments and controls that you’d expect to see have been moved onto a 12.3 inch tablet-style touchscreen in the centre of the console. Everything from the speed you’re doing to battery consumption and navigation information is on the screen, as are controls for everything from door mirrors to heating.
On the one hand this keeps the interior of the car clean and uncluttered, with a fresh, modern appearance. On the other hand it’s not particularly user-friendly, especially while you’re driving, and you have to take your eyes off the road more than usual, though there is a good voice control system for some functions. Maybe this is design taking precedence over usability.
Having said that, I like everything else about this classy offering from Volvo. It’s build quality is exceptional, its performance is impressive, it’s well-specified and a pleasure to drive.
I test drove the Cross Country twin motor variant of the EX30 in Ultra spec which gives you all-wheel drive, slightly more ground clearance and all terrain tyres. It comes with a very good specification, and I would put its ride and handling as best in class. It’s at the pricier end of the range at £47,060 but you get a lot of car for your money.
The twin electric motors give you a powerful 428 bhp with a limited top speed of 112mph. It will take you from 0 to 62 mph in a rapid 3.7 seconds, so its certainly no slouch. In addition it gives you engaging and comfortable driving and impeccable road manners.
The EX30 is a good looker and will undoubtedly turn heads. You get smart 19-inch alloys, bodywork protection panels and attractive graphics. Its innovative features include automatic unlocking when you approach the car with the key in your pocket, and automatic power off and locking when you walk away. To start the motor you only have to press the brake pedal.
The interior of the EX30 is modern and uncluttered, with a comfortable driving position and good visibility. The front seats are heated, as is the steering wheel. The interior is roomy and there’s plenty of luggage space – 318 litres before you fold the 60/40 split rear seats. The boot floor is adjustable to give more space.
Satellite navigation and most other functions are controlled via the 12.3 inch touch screen. You can download the EX30 app giving you remote control of some functions and tracking via a smartphone or smartwatch.
In-car entertainment includes Apple CarPlay with voice control, Bluetooth and a Harman Kardon sound system. Google maps come as standard.
Specification on the EX30 also includes three front and two rear radar sensors, front and rear parking sensors, front camera and rear parking camera, wireless phone charger, powered tailgate, automatic headlights, two-zone climate control and a range of safety technology including lane keeping aid, blind-spot monitor, collision avoidance assist, rear cross traffic alert and door opening alert.
Published range for the EX30 twin motor is up to 273 miles miles. 10-80 per cent battery charging time can be as little as 28 minutes.
This EX30 should certainly be on choice lists for an all-electric vehicle. The entry price for the range is £31,560 which is certainly competitive. Once you get used to some of its idiosyncrasies you get a highly-regarded electric vehicle with a high specification and bags of technology.
