Volvo’s EX30 is a significant vehicle for the brand as it marks a return to rear-wheel drive, a feature that works better on snow and ice than expected. However, the stability and traction control systems in the car are conservative, making it challenging to engage in winter drifts without the systems cutting power. Despite this limitation, the car’s stability in snowy conditions is impressive, showing that the all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive versions both handle minimal grip well. The EX30 is Volvo’s latest and smallest EV on the market, with excellent stability control systems that keep the car on track even in slippery conditions.
The EX30 offers quick specs that include a 64-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion NMC battery, a range of 275 miles for the rear-wheel drive version and 265 miles for the all-wheel drive version, and a max DC fast charging rate of 153 kilowatts. The single-motor, rear-wheel drive version of the EX30 has 268 horsepower, while the dual-motor, all-wheel drive version boasts 422 horsepower. The starting price for the EX30 is around $35,000, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for a reliable electric vehicle for winter driving. The EX30’s stability control systems help maintain control and grip on icy roads, providing a safe and smooth driving experience.
In a test drive in northern Sweden, the single-motor, rear-wheel drive EX30 displayed good traction control systems that effectively managed icy roads. The car’s stability control kept it moving in the right direction, even in snowy conditions where grip was minimal. Equipped with Michelin snow tires, the EX30 had excellent grip on loose snow and ice, making it a reliable vehicle for winter driving. The ice track set up by Volvo allowed for testing the car’s handling and turning capabilities, showing that the EX30 maintained control and stability even in challenging conditions.
The dual-motor, all-wheel drive version of the EX30 offers a different driving experience, with more power and speed off the line compared to the rear-wheel drive version. While the all-wheel drive version is less prone to understeer and oversteer, it still maintains control with the stability and traction control systems enabled. The single-motor, rear-wheel drive version is a better buy for those on a budget, especially in snowy conditions where proper snow tires can enhance traction. The dual-motor version only loses about 10 miles of range compared to the rear-wheel drive model, making it a suitable option for those in snowy regions.
The cost difference between the rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions of the EX30 is around $6,000, with the dual-motor starting at $46,600. Despite the higher cost, the dual-motor version provides added control and acceleration, making it a good choice for those looking for a little extra performance. The EX30 has gained anticipation ahead of its launch, with its safe and reliable driving performance receiving positive reviews. The interior of the EX30 is cost-conscious yet compelling, offering a comfortable driving experience in a stylish package. Overall, the EX30 proves that rear-wheel drive can be effective, even in harsh winter conditions, making it a worthwhile investment for drivers seeking a reliable electric vehicle.
