The littlest Volvo has everything it needs to take the EV market by storm.
What's the biggest issue stopping more Americans from buying EVs? Some will say range or charging infrastructure, but the real problem is the price. Most EVs are too damn expensive for the average buyer, and few automakers are doing anything about it. Volvo is.Poke around the automotive world a bit these days, and you'll trip over half a dozen doom and gloom headlines predicting a sudden collapse of the EV market in America.
You can also pass on the all-wheel-drive model unless you're either a speed freak or really need that front-axle traction. The 268-hp Single Motor Extended Range model will hit 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, Volvo says, and that's quicker than the average compact SUV, not to mention the rear-drive Tesla Model Y.
The quiet interior helps, too. Unlike some lower-priced EVs, the EX30 doesn't skimp on the sound insulation and the inside is quiet as a cathedral around town. Get it up to freeway speeds, and there's a little wind noise around the top corners of the windshield, but far from a deal-breaker.You'll get up to speed far more quickly if you do decide to pop for the Twin Motor Performance model, especially if you use AWD Performance Mode.
A peak DC Fast charging rate of just 153 kW is disappointing, but Volvo engineers say the charging curve is very flat, allowing it to maintain peak speed for a long time rather than spiking at first and slowing down like some EVs. Charing from 10 to 80 percent takes 27 minutes, which is fairly competitive and gives credence to the sustained charging speed.
Other minor annoyances can be dealt with similarly. The driver attention monitor, for example, is too sensitive and will scold you for looking too far to either side when driving around a tight corner, thinking you've taken your eyes off the road when you've done the opposite. It and the speed limit warnings, including an audible beep every time the speed limit changes, can be turned off in the settings but you have to dig through a lot of menus to find all of them.
Finally, there's the rear seat. It's very low and forces your knees into the air like sitting in a child's chair. Legroom is just barely adequate, so don't plan on driving your tall friends around. Their heads won't hit the ceiling, but they still won't be comfortable. Not that most compact SUVs have huge rear seats, but the high knees thing is an EX30-specific problem.
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