2024 Volvo EX30

Volvo starts making the EX30 in Europe

Volvo's EX30 has been one of the best-selling EVs in Europe in 2024, but since it was made in China it was impacted by the EU's supplementary tariffs on Chinese EVs.

That's all in the past however, as today Volvo has started production of the EX30 at its plant in Ghent, Belgium. The same factory will also be making the EX30 Cross Country starting "later this year".

The addition of the EX30 at the Ghent facility will result in around 350 new jobs, bringing the plant's total to almost 6,600 people.

To make the EX30's production possible in Ghent, Volvo invested around €200 million for the addition of a completely new car platform, 600 new or refurbished robots, an extension of the battery hall, a new door production line, as well as a new battery pack assembly line.

 
Volvo’s electric momentum builds on impressive EX30 and EX90 sales in South Africa

Known for its strong performance in the electric vehicle segment, Volvo Car South Africa has once again posted successful sales figures for the first four months of the year. The popular EX30 led the way, and the introduction of the new EX90, the brand’s range-topping luxury electric SUV, further boosted sales.

Between January and April 2025, the Swedish marque delivered 114 electric vehicles to customers, with the EX30 leading the charge at 48 units. Not only is it the best-selling electric Volvo, but the compact crossover remains South Africa’s favourite premium EV, outselling similarly-sized rivals from luxury brands.

Notably, the top 5 best-selling electric vehicles in South Africa during this period included the XC40 and C40 Recharge, with a combined 36 units in third place, while the all-new EX90 secured fifth place with 30 units. In 2024, Volvo was the best-selling electric vehicle brand in South Africa, with 539 examples delivered to customers last year.

With Volvo’s latest Guaranteed Future Value (GFV) offers, the brand’s award-winning range of electric vehicles is more appealing than ever. The EX30, available from just R9,999 per month, gives customers the freedom to experience electric driving with the reassurance of a guaranteed trade-in value after 48 months.

In addition to this flexible ownership model, Volvo also provides every EV customer with a complimentary home wall box charger and contributes R7,500 toward the installation cost. In addition, customers receive a R12,000 public charging voucher and 10 GB of in-car data per month for three years, making the switch to electric even more convenient and connected.

“Strong demand for Volvo’s electric vehicles in South Africa, led by the EX30, reflects increasing interest in premium electric mobility within the country,” said Felipe Yagi, Head of Marketing and Communications at Volvo Car South Africa.

 
Volvo gears up to launch the rugged EX30 Cross Country electric SUV in SA

Volvo Car South Africa is set to expand its electric lineup with the unveiling of the new EX30 Cross Country—a rugged derivative of the acclaimed EX30.

Following the recent launch of the all-electric seven-seater EX90, the EX30 Cross Country is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and adventure.

With its roots tracing back to the iconic Cross Country name introduced in 1997 on the V70 model, the EX30 Cross Country brings a refreshing twist to the traditional Volvo design.

This SUV is more than just aesthetically adventurous; it boasts a sturdy appearance with advanced all-wheel drive capabilities, perfect for eco-conscious explorers.

The EX30 Cross Country features an elevated ride height compared to its standard counterpart, enhancing off-road capability. Sporting impressive 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels in a striking Matte Graphite finish, adorned with Matte Black aero inserts, the SUV emanates strength and reliability.

While retaining the EX30’s minimalist elegance, this rugged version has received a series of thoughtful upgrades. The front shield and boot lid are accentuated with a unique dark hue, while the front fascia proudly displays model-specific artwork inspired by the topography of Sweden’s Kebnekaise mountain range.

Additional styling enhancements include robust skid plates and wheel arch extensions that contribute to a more chiselled, rugged aesthetic.

In South Africa, the EX30 Cross Country will be exclusively available in the Ultra Twin Performance variant, ensuring that drivers enjoy a comprehensive suite of luxury and convenience features.

Among these premium offerings are a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable front seats, and an impressive array of over 15 driver assistance features. For those looking to personalise their vehicle, bespoke accessories such as mudflaps, load carriers, and roof baskets will be available to enhance the ownership experience.*

With a formidable range of 427 km, the EX30 Cross Country promises to satisfy the needs of adventurers who relish long distance travel.

 
Volvo EX30 Cross Country Locked in For SA in 2025

The Volvo EX30 Cross Country is confirmed for SA, bringing rugged capability and adventuring to the electric segment. Here’s what we know.

The Cross Country is essentially a Volvo EX30 which went to Cape Union Mart and accessorised itself for the great outdoors. Jokes aside, just look at it, you get the feeling that this little electric crossover is ready to tackle some gravel roads.

Officially, Volvo says the EX30 Cross Country offers an increased ride height over the standard EX30 and in our opinion, all-wheel drive and substantial ground clearance are the foundation for confident gravel travel. Visually, the car makes quite the statement, with 19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels which are finished in Matte Graphite with Matte Black aero inserts. The front shield and boot lid have a darker look and if you look closely, the front has the outline of a topographical map, giving you some idea of the car’s capabilities.

Volvo South Africa has confirmed the Cross Country will only be available in the flagship Ultra Twin Performance which means you get an electric motor on each axle. Power outputs are claimed at 315 kW and 543 Nm, which means impressive performance. Volvo claims 0-100 kph in just 3.6 seconds for the standard EX30 with this powertrain, and we suspect the Cross Country will be fractionally slower due to its offroad accessories. A range of 427 km is being claimed.

 
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