Summary
Buyers can expect roughly one-tenth longer driving range with a single-motor version of the Volvo EX30.
A range test in Norway showed that the rear-wheel drive version of the Volvo EX30 had a higher range than the Performance version.
The range of the Volvo EX30 RWD was estimated at 257 miles at 56 mph, with an energy consumption of 254 Wh/mile.
At 75 mph, the range decreased to 185 miles, with an energy consumption of 354 Wh/mile, showing a 28% decrease compared to the lower speed.
The Volvo EX30 may have a higher driving range with 18-inch wheels compared to 20-inch wheels in the U.S., however, the model’s launch in the country is uncertain due to the tariff increase on EVs produced in China.
Article
**Increased Range with Volvo EX30 RWD**
Buyers of the Volvo EX30 RWD model can expect a significantly longer driving range compared to the Performance version. In a recent range test conducted by EV testing veteran Bjørn Nyland in Norway, the base rear-wheel drive version of the hot Volvo EX30 model outperformed the top-of-the-line Performance version. Equipped with a 69-kilowatt-hour battery and 20-inch wheels, the Volvo EX30 RWD achieved a range of 257 miles at a speed of 56 mph. The results indicate that sticking with a single-motor version can result in a driving range that is over a tenth higher compared to the dual-motor Performance version.
**Temperature and Powertrain Efficiency**
The successful range test conducted by Nyland was carried out at a temperature of about 72°F. The minimal temperature difference between the two tests indicates that the difference in range is mostly related to the powertrain. Furthermore, the Volvo EX30 RWD is lighter than the AWD version, weighing in at 1,920 kg versus 2,020 kg. Additionally, the energy consumption of the Volvo EX30 RWD, estimated at 254 Wh/mile, showcases a reasonable level of efficiency for a small and boxy EV.
**Performance at Different Speeds**
The efficiency of the Volvo EX30 RWD was tested at speeds of 56 mph and 75 mph. While the range at 56 mph was 257 miles, it dropped to 185 miles at 75 mph. The energy consumption also varied, with 254 Wh/mile at 56 mph and 354 Wh/mile at 75 mph. The difference in range between the RWD and AWD versions was significant, showcasing 35 miles at 56 mph and 19 miles at 75 mph.
**Potential Impact in the U.S. Market**
Although the Volvo EX30 is performing well globally, its launch in the U.S. is facing challenges due to an increase in tariffs on EVs produced in China. The entry-level Volvo EX30 in the U.S. will come with 18-inch wheels which may improve its driving range compared to the 20-inch wheels used in testing. Plans to start production of the EX30 in Europe by 2025 may provide a solution to the tariff issue, however, the viability of exporting to the U.S. remains uncertain.
**Future Outlook for Volvo EX30**
Despite the challenges faced by the Volvo EX30 in the U.S. market, the model continues to gain popularity globally. With plans to shift production to Europe by 2025, Volvo aims to overcome tariff barriers and potentially expand its reach to the U.S. market. The impressive range and efficiency demonstrated by the Volvo EX30 RWD in the recent test make it a competitive option for buyers looking for a high-performing electric vehicle. As the EV market continues to evolve, Volvo’s commitment to innovation and sustainability positions the brand for success in the electric vehicle segment.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, the Volvo EX30 RWD delivers an impressive driving range and efficiency, outperforming the Performance version in recent tests. The powertrain, weight, and wheel size of the RWD version contribute to its increased range and fuel efficiency. Despite challenges in the U.S. market, Volvo’s strategic plans for production in Europe and commitment to sustainability indicate a promising future for the EX30 model. For buyers seeking an electric vehicle with high performance and efficiency, the Volvo EX30 RWD proves to be a compelling option in the competitive EV market.
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