VOLVO EX30

Volvo's third EV for the Indian market is a compact luxury crossover teeming with youthfulness

- ABHAY VERMA

It wouldn't be wrong to credit Volvo for helping accelerate things in the entry-luxury EV segment, quite literally, with its 400PS XC40 Recharge. Mercedes-Benz and BMW India were quick to follow suit with the EQA and iX1 respectively, though clearly, Audi India is yet to realise the segment's potential. Volvo even launched the gorgeous-looking C40 Recharge in the segment, but not content, the Swedish car maker is launching its third compact luxury EV in the form of the EX30. What makes the EX30 interesting is that unlike the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, it has been developed as an EV from the grounds-up.

The EX30 is also smaller in size than its aforementioned siblings, and also looks more youthful and athletic. The face retains Volvo's trademark 'Thor's hammer' DRL design, but in a more futuristic manner here. Further, there isn't even an inkling of a grille since this isn't an EV based on an ICE-powered vehicle, and this also means the Volvo logo sits freely in between the headlamps, without any borders or outline. The front bumper features vents to help in channelling airflow, along with an active flap at the bottom. The roofline is a departure from Volvo's traditional, boxy-silhouette and is curvier, which adds to the EX30's stance. The rear is boxier in shape though, which along with the connected, C-shaped tail lamps makes for a more hatchback-esque appearance. An interesting detail is that tail lamps extend into the rear windscreen, adding to the EX30's distinctiveness.