Volvo’s cheapest EV, the EX30, was expected to begin rolling out by the end of the year, but that’s not going to happen. Volvo is pushing back the launch of the EX30 in China until 2024.
Volvo EX30 electric SUV launch pushed back until 2024
Although EX30 orders were expected to open in China last month, the electric SUV will not go on sale until after the new year.
The new compact electric crossover was pulled from the North American Car, Truck, and Utility of the Year (NACTOY) awards Monday, as reservations will not open by the deadline.
NACTOY president Jeff Gilbert told journalists that the “first vehicles will not be delivered to customers until well into 2024, perhaps not until summer.”
Volvo’s EX30 was one of three finalists for 2024 Utility of the Year, alongside the Kia EV9 and Genesis GV70. The EX30 will be replaced with the Hyundai Kona electric.
Meanwhile, Volvo Car USA spokesperson Rusell Datz confirmed EX30 deliveries in the US will begin in the summer, as previously expected.
Datz told Automotive News, “We wanted to be fully transparent” with the deadlines. Volvo said in October that EX30 production began in the third quarter, with the first deliveries in China expected in Q4.
Earlier this month, we reported that Volvo sold the first 33 EX30 models in November, which were likely wholesale units to dealers or test models.
Meanwhile, Volvo will also build the EX30 at its Ghent Plant in Belgium due to strong early demand. The site will serve as a production base for Europe from 2025.
Volvo calls the EX30 a “cornerstone” of its EV plans. At $34,950 (excluding $1,195 shipping), it will start as one of the most affordable EVs in the US.
The electric SUV will be available in two powertrains with up to 275 miles range (in the Single Motor Extended Range variant). A Twin Motor Performance ($44,900) will be the quickest Volvo vehicle yet, with a 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds.
Electrek’s Take
Although Volvo is pushing back the EX30 launch in China, it doesn’t seem to impact US plans. The Volvo EX30 is coming to the market at a critical time as demand for affordable EVs continues climbing.
The current Chevy Bolt EV is due for retirement at the end of the year (until the next-gen Bolt is launched in 2025), while Nissan LEAF sales continue fading.
With two of the cheapest EVs in the US due for replacements, Volvo’s EX30 can help fill the market void.
Despite its small size, Volvo expects big results from the EX30. The electric SUV is aimed at an entirely new market for Volvo in younger buyers with a fun, tech-loaded ride. And who can pass up that Scandinavian design for under $35K?
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