🤔 Many of us have our 'must-have' features in a car. Out of the 6 missing elements in the Volvo EX30 highlighted in this video, which one would be your deal-breaker? Or is there another feature not mentioned that you'd absolutely need? Let's discuss below! 👇
You nailed most of the things that I would be missing on the EX30. One other thing that I would miss are the speakers throughout the car. Even with the soundbar being tuned by a respected brand, I'm sure the sound quality won't be as good as with having more speakers. Personally I wouldn't mind the car being produced in China though.. I think I'll stick a bit longer to my VW ID.3.. 😅
I definitely agree on the lack of speakers being a buzzkill.. When I test drove a Cupra Born, the version I drove only had a sound bar and the quality was really lacking. Luckily in the EX30 you get the soundbar only only in the Core trim. The higher trims have a premium Harman/Kardon soundsystem with 9 speakers, 9-channel amplifier with 1040 W Soundbar in the dashboard: centre mid-range speaker, 2x mid-range speakers and 2x tweeters on the sides plust wideband speaker and 2x unique bass in each of the rear door. Also ECS (Externl Coupled Speaker) woofer located behind the dashboard and rear in the luggage compartment. I got to try out the Harman/Kardon system when I test drove Polestar 2 and it was quite wonderful, so as long as you'd go with a higher trim the sound in the EX30 should be pretty good. How do you feel about the touch steering wheel in your ID.3? I briefly considered it as an option myself, but that steering wheel was such a turnoff for me.
@@siasek I don't know about more speakers in the EX30. It doesn't look like the door panels are made to accommodate speakers. I would really have to wait and see the car in person... I don't mind the capacitive buttons on the steering of the ID.3. Yes occasionally I might change the radio channel with an accidental swipe, but it rarely happens. It's not as bad as I thought it would be before buying it. 😁
Check out the introduction videos, the speaker in the back door is visible. Unfortunately, the UK pdf version of the EX30's detailed specs omitted this important information entirely. Seems to me that the UK dealership doesn't like specs all that much. 😄 I admire you for using the touch steering wheel, I dismissed the ID.3 because of it. But I'm glad it's not so bad in real life. Though I still wouldn't go for it, even just out of principle.
@@siasek the touch sensitive buttons are really not as bad as one might think. Though I do understand people being sceptical about them. (I used to be one of them 😅) I don't know if the Zeekr X will come to the UK, but so far it looks like it's more premium than Volvo EX30. Though most of the journalists consider it to be a bit above average when it comes to the driving experience. I wonder how it compares to the EX3O on that matter.. 🤓
@LorandToth-NL I've heard varying opinions about those touch-sensitive buttons; some really hate them, while others... tolerate them. 😄 Props to you for giving them a shot! The Zeekr X definitely seems interesting. The interior is for sure more luxurious than the Volvo EX30, but then the EX30 interior has the sustainability aspect, which I can appreciate. Plus the Zeekr X doesn't have a glovebox.. 😬 but then again the EX30 doesn't have that driver display so... The driving experience will be the real test, as you mentioned. I'll try to get my hands on both and do a head-to-head comparison at some point
I love the look of the EX30 inside and out but the lack of a driver's display is a real deal breaker for me, the rest of the things don't bother me as much. I am getting my centre console in my Polestar 2 wrapped in a matte vinyl after it arrives next week.
I feel that, I'd really have to try it out several times before deciding if I could get used to driving without the driver display... it seems really strange. Good call on the matte vinyl wrap. I've thought about doing the same in my e-C4, but have come to the conclusion it's not even worth it in that car. Definitely worth it for the Polestar 2 though. I'd love to see how it looks when it's finished!
Lack of rear vents is cheaping out too. There’s just a hole where the rear vents would normally be. Lack of drivers display or HUD would be my main objection.
Agreed, I think I would miss the driver's display or HUD in a EX30 too, and I don't think the car is so affordable that I would accept that loss. I mean I'm willing to give it a try, maybe I'll be surprised, but it just feel so counterintuitive
In Canada, the real deal breaker is the price of the car. In its base trim the price is 53% higher than US price. It's more than the exchange rate. In comparison, the XC40 Recharge Canadian price (also from Volvo) is less than 15% higher than the US price. Why such a difference for the EX-30 ? The major problem of building a car in China is the amount of CO2 emitted. For the EX-30 in its base version it's 18 metric tons of CO2. It's a lot for such a small car. In France gas (an diesel) cars emit only 2 tons of CO2 early in average. So building the EX-30 means 9 years of driving with an ICE car. Incredible !!!
I was reading about the crazy Canadian prices in some discussions! Wasn't the price originally supposed to be much lower and then they jacked it up for some reason? That's so weird... do you also have a 25% tariff like the US on Chinese car imports? The US does and yet they manage to keep the EX30 price reasonable. I guess that the EX30 is so much more expensive than the XC40 Recharge because the EX30 is made in China and the XC40 isn't... Could you possibly import one from the US in the future? Btw, where do you get your emissions information from? I had no idea about that. Volvo claims the Chinese factory is emission free. The Chinese are very aggressive in adopting environmental rules, no wonder after the emissions problems they have had in major cities.
So much about the EX30 is so great I can overlook a few shortcomings. The driver display doesn't bother me at all, I drove a Scion XB for years without one. I do think the rear seat should have a center armrest. But RWD with a 5.1 0-60, this car is a screaming bargain. And for those who want supercar performance, that's available too in the AWD. Frankly, you're one of the few car reviewers who criticize the EX30. But that's ok, even Michelangelo wasn't perfect.
Seems to me like the Scion XB pretty much has a driver display.. just moved to the right a bit. How'd you like driving it? It looks so boxy, but I can imagine it'd be useful if you haul around a lot of equipment, for example. I agree with you about the EX30 being a great deal and I've done other videos to that effect, still, I think a little criticism is necessary and keeps things interesting. If we all just talked about how great everything is, I suppose there wouldn't be much reason to watch UA-cam at all and we could just watch promo videos and press releases. 😄 Btw, if you're implying that my criticism is the thing that keeps me from perfection, well, I'm very flattered! 🤭
@@siasek lol, that's a good reply. And I agree criticism is useful. But I'm a little sensitive on the EX30, it's the EV I've been waiting for and I put down the 500 to get one.
I do think it seems like a great car, it just comes down to what one's priorities are. We will have actually have two EX30s in our extended family based on my recommendation, because for their needs it's perfect 👌
The point of the space in the back and boot is something is apparent just looking at it from outside. It is a very short car, but it has a standard size hood. I guess to have it look like a traditional Volvo. If you compare it to the ID.3, the later has a shorter hood, which makes sense and profits from the benefits of EVs. In other words, Volvo/Geely and other brands are doing cars that look nice/traditional instead of taking advantage of designing a shorter hood, as there isn't a need for it.
Still not sure about the center display since I haven’t driven in a car with no driver’s display yet, but I’ve noticed lately that when I’m driving my own car that I keep looking more to the center screen than the driver display because Waze tells me both the speed limit and my speed. I drive in some back roads where the speed limit changes a lot so I like that i can instantly check it at any time when posted limits are scarce. Granted a HUD could do this , but my point is that it doesn’t feel weird or bothersome anymore that I’m looking to my right instead of the front to check my speed. I guess I got used to it and it now feels very natural.
Hmm interesting, thanks for your insight! That makes sense actually, I also look at the center display when using navigation because even though I have a HUD I don't like using the built-in navigation. I do think that the main reason I have a problem with the lack of a driver display is habit. I would definitely need to try out driving without one, perhaps a few times, before I'd commit to buying my next car without it.
Lately Google Maps has been telling me that the speed limit in various residential areas (including my own neighborhood) is 55 mph. I really hope they don't have self driving cars trying to use that data...
@keegan854 Sheesh, that's quite a bit concerning! 😬 Definitely hope self-driving cars have more reliable data sources, or we might see some unexpected "Fast & Furious" scenes in quiet neighborhoods. Honestly I'm quite apprehensive of self-driving cars. For this and other reasons. Yes, I get that once the systems are perfected it should theoretically be safer than a human driving, but how many times does infotainment and other software glitch in cars now? I don't wanna have to turn it off and and back on again when I'm on a highway or something!
I'm a button guy but that single display looks to be very well designed and easy to use. The lack of a rear center armrest is quite surprising. Since it will be our second car, the lack of rear seat and boot space are not deal breakers.
It seems like a great choice for a second car! I agree with everything you wrote, still would have to test how I'd feel driving without a driver display, but I agree that most of the other stuff is minor, especailly in a second car.
Fair enough. I've never driven a car without a driver display, so I have no experience with it, but I suppose it's just about getting used to it. I do think that at least a HUD would be nice. Have you had a car without the display before?
@gerlund-garage Thanks for weighing in! I mentioned the glove thing based on some feedback I'd heard, but it's always good to hear another opinion. Goes to show, generalizations don't always apply! 😅 How do you find the cold affecting touchscreen responsiveness and other car tech during the winter months in Denmark?
The driver display and lack of buttons are definitely slight cons, but probably something I coget used to (although it still slightly annoys me in my Tesla). What will be really interesting with the EX30 is going to be efficiency, Range and Charging. I think they made a mistake with the base model's battery capacity. It's fantastic to have an LFP option, but it should be 60Wh, not below 50. The Volvo has a rather un-aerodynamic shape, and due to that it won't be as efficient as a Model 3. With the added disadvantage of a smaller LFP battery, the "Cheap" version of the EX30 will likely need an additional charging stop compared to the Model 3 SR+ on the same trip, making it far less practical (also due to the less optimal charging network).
I also think the basic version could have had more capacity, but then again, it wouldn't have been as cheap. It's just a compromise. But there is no problem in charging speed, the peak is up to 134 kW and the average power on DC is 80 kW. (Tesla SR 2023 averages 100 kW). So 10-80% in the EX30 Core is in 27 minutes.
You've raised quite a lot of important issues there which are common to several EV models. The Volvo is one of a number of essentially Chinese cars that are rebadged. It's perhaps the only way they can compete with Tesla. The lack of display and controls is a big issue for me. It just makes the car even more different than a normal ICE car for no real reason. I'm not that tall, but the space in the back does look a bit limited, however, the boot is fine as we currently have an Ibiza and it suits us well. But, we all want cheaper EVs, so these compromises might be necessary. I'm more shocked at how much EVs depreciate and the hidden costs of owning one.
Thanks for the comment, I'm glad I'm not alone with the buttons and display! I really like Android, but I just want buttons for some things in places they've been for decades! The battery makes up most of the cost of the car anyway, so I don't believe the savings on those buttons are worth it, especially when other cheap EVs have them, even ones on the same platform. What hidden costs are you referring to? I'd say on the contrary there are none, and you can still sell a used EV very well, much better than a used ICE. Personally tested with my E-golf. 😁
@@siasek There are many hidden costs. I would have thought stalks would be sufficient to control most stuff? You don't need loads of buttons, just a few to control the most common stuff! As for running costs, I worked out a few things and got some quotes/prices. Insurance for a Tesla is twice that of an ICE car equivalent. I suppose they're more expensive to repair? The insurance excess is twice too. You'll need a home charger and these are around £1000 in the UK. You'll really need to home charge as service station costs are horrific, very often not working and are actually slow chargers not rapid. An EV doesn't need road tax, but servicing is a similar cost.
We were able to see the EX30 in person this week. We are retired, very rarely use the back seat and the boot is ample for our needs. Yes I would like leather but at this price and the eco considerations we are fine with the interiors. So far leaning toward the blue. We really liked the vehicle. My only concern is that I wish it was a bit easier to enter and exit.
That's awesome! I think it's a great choice if you don't really need all that room. I probably like the indigo interior the best so far, it's made with recycled jean materials, but I haven't had a chance to see it in person. Do you find it to be a bit low to the ground or is the entering and exiting a bit tricky due to the size you'd say?
With a bit more consideration now thinking Vapor Gray/indigo, RWD long range. For sure it is lower to the ground than my X3 but I will need another visit to adjust the seating to my preference and then see where we are. I do know the seat height in a Tesla 3 seems very low to me as an example. Tried out the back seat and my initial response was the door was narrow. Probably not enough as to where it is a major consideration though.
Yea, the Tesla 3 feels too low for me as well... Just seems like a lot of work to get in and out every time. I don't need all that 😄 Those rear doors in the EX30 do seem a bit narrow from what I've seen, but I guess it shouldn't be much of an issue if you don't really plan on riding back there. Let me know what you end up picking! I'm sure it'll be fun to drive
I agree about the glossy surfaces. The rest I would expect or am at least fine with. Excited to see actual reviews from people who have driven it soon.
Yea, that glossy black plastic is a right pain, wish it would stop being so popular already. Definitely looking forward to taking the EX30 out for a spin myself.
I agree that the lack of a driver display feature and at least a one key air conditioner / heater control is an issue and could be actually dangerous as people have to take their eyes from the road to find these controls. This is a deal breaker with Tesla also. Volvo has always catered for the more mature driver, however not with this screen set up.
You're absolutely right, buttons are simply needed for important functions. Everything else is simply about cost savings at the expense of safety. My first and probably favorite car was a Volvo and I loved it so much. I still want to love Volvos now but this move definitely makes me question it
Thanks for raising these points. It’s refreshing to see a video talking about different aspects tah those reviewers following the routine of presenting exterior/interior/ sitting space / infotainment/ driving experience. They are copying each others as robots.
Ah, you noticed that too! That was exactly my frustration while I was researching for my next EV -- lots of the same information over and over again and a distinct lack of details. I did my latest video on the new Citroen e-C3, and all the reviews I watched parroted that the car has a HUD (info from the press release), when it actually only has a projection display. Just a great example of these robot reviews at work 😅. I'm glad you found my take useful!
That #1 is the reason I don’t like Tesla. I have another ev vehicle w/ a large display to the side. It is actually a driving hazard when I have to use them.
Oh, thank you for your first hand insight. See, this is how I imagine it playing out. It just seems like a weird and unnecessary extra step you have to take (turn your head sideways) and while that may be ok most of the time, I feel like it really would be a hazard in certain perhaps high-stakes, situations..
Totally agree with everything, had a sit in behind the wheel no driving with Volvo USA rep, brought up same points, other than China build, he disagreed. Asked my impression, replied EX30 is a budget economy hatchback, not up to Volvo higher end quality. Says EX30 is a true Volvo compact SUV. MY wife mentioned we had a 1988 Volvo 240DL with over 350,000 miles and doesn’t think EX30 would even come close.
I tend to agree with your wife. My first car was a Volvo 850 sedan and I loved it so much! While I think the EX30 looks like an interesting EV option and I would be tempted to try it, I don't think it'll be a match to the old school OG Volvos that we loved. And the lack of a driver display just feels so weird to me!
Looking at this as potentially our only car. Space is fine, do not ever carry basketball players, and both my wife are on the short end on height. Would like a minimalist gauge for speed, but not a deal breaker. Don't think the lack of buttons is a deal breaker either. Love the size (definitely do not want a hulking huge pedestrian-killing SUV (Ford, GM,... take note). And appreciate the apple car play (Tesla take note).
You're right, I'm a bit sorry they didn't use the electric platform for more space in the back, the long front hood takes up a lot of crew space for no reason. Other than that, I agree. 🙂
The cheap black plastic sucks! And SO MANY manufacturers use it. Gaah, I keep hoping that if I point this out in every video maybe one day they'll hear me out. Maybe we should start a petition 😄
I originally quite liked the Breeze in pictures myself, but I think they mainly got the lighting right. In outdoor light I feel like it's not quite it and the seats almost feel too bright for the interior. Plus the speckled surfaces just aren't that great up close. Still, it's a matter of taste of course. I think I like Indigo the best so far, but I have only seen that one in pictures so who knows?
In relation to the boot space of the EX30 you probably already know the space below the false boot floor was not added into the calculations and the total boot space with thte false floor removed is 440 Liters.
Oh my gosh!! I've been trying to get an answer to this, because that's what I figured, but when I mentioned it in a previous video I had people telling me I was wrong in the comments. That makes sense to me, thank you for confirming my suspicions. Did you have a chance to measure it?
No Fina I have not physically measured it another car review channel questioned the boot capacity too and was told the full size with the lower divider removed but if its in place then the size you have is correct.
I made an error it is not 440 total without using the additional lower compartment (61 Liters) it is 318 with the addition of the area below the false floor 318 plus 61total 379 Litres.
I think it is frivolous and unfair to compare a small car with the characteristics of a large car. I have a little doubt whether you have seen the car in reality. For example, I don't understand why you talk about driving with gloves in the car when the steering wheel is heatet.
This is what people complain about in discussions..as I said in the video, the glove thing is not my experience. But I can imagine if I were just going a few blocks for example, perhaps I don't want to be taking off my gloves each time.. either way, I just think buttons are better. You don't have to take your eyes off the road to control them. But hey, if you don't miss them, good. No dealbreaker for you. The EX30 is a nice small car, I just think it's kind of a shame they didn't utilize the electric platform to leave more room for the crew. There is a lot of unused space in that long front hood that could've been utilized for either more space in the rear or a bigger frunk.
@@siasekit has alot of beeps and bongs that is still quite an annoyance. Stopping at a round about an looking left and right and it complains about inattentive driving. Rear seat room is fine for kids and bare able for adults but no arm rest and no leg room make it tuff over 45min in the back. Bluetooth microphone was terrible on our test drive, but fine on our ordered car. Been good on range 17-21kwh per 10p There still is an awful lot to like :) its a great car for the choice out there
Oh I know right! I can tolerate it to an extent, but I do feel like some brands are really going overboard. It's not ergonomic, quite annoying and I'd say dangerous. The best combo in my opinion is a large display plus buttons and levers for important things
Volvo just announced that production for the EX30 will expand to Ghent Belgium which is where 40 series are built in addition to China starting in 2025. Very cheap-looking and cramped backseat though I guess that's the point of this car. Apparently only comes with an auto-dimming driver's mirror and interior mirror but not a passenger mirror.
The Belgian production is an interesting move, I wonder what the ratio will be China vs Belgium. I feel like the production costs in Belgium would be quite high and as you say, seems like the point of this car is to offer a cheap EV option 🤷
I don't think you should be critiquing a small car for lack of space/room. What about the crap window switches, and I am not keen on the garden gate style door handles, poor range of colour choices
Hi, I think criticizing the space in the back is perfectly valid - are you familiar with the Skoda Citigo/VW e-UP? How much shorter is that than the EX30 and how much rear seat space it has? I could easily give those basketball players a ride in there! The window switches are a good point, their placement is really odd.
Fair comment re legroom I guess, I will have to wait until I see the car next week. The window switches are the same as the VW ID range at launch - Toggling between front and rear. VW got so much bad press, they converted later cars back to four switches. There is a point at which value engineer becomes laughable
Ditto the unlit touchpads for volume and temperature control and that awful touchscreen steering wheel. VW is done in my book, the degradation from the most ergonomic interiors is unbelievable to me. It's really a shame. Please let me know your thoughts on the EX30 once you get to try it out! I'd love to know your real-life impressions
Hey, I went to see the static car today at Vertu Exeter. It is a very nice looking car, well built and good quality materials. I hate the drivers window switch, having to 'toggle' front and back and Volvo have lost the plot re the centre console storage, or rather lack of it
Did I say that?! 😮🫢 no really though, I didn't say that ... I believe I mentioned something about the white interior in a Tesla looking cheap. So to answer your question no, I do not dare 😅
I was sure I would trade in my current EV for this car, until I test drove it this past weekend. There’s no aircon at the back For my kids, and I live in a hot climate, also no arm rest or cup holders for kids. Deal breaker. I also hate that I have to take their plastic seats, leather should be an option (I’m buying this because I can charge it for free off of my solar panels at home, and not because I’m vegan, thanks). The car is “cheap” for an EV but now weighing it up vs. Mercedes EQA and ix3 from BMW …
Ah! I'm so glad someone else noticed these things too! The armrest in the back and the missing airvents would have bothered me so much. Another thing I don't like is the too high power consumption according to early user tests (although that probably doesn't play a big role for you). I don't know about your market, but here the audio is just a soundbar in the front and that just sounds weird, I like to listen to music in the car and this would also bother me. Overall, after a long time, I feel like the EX30 is not as interesting as when it was introduced... I probably wouldn't include it in my selection anymore. It's cool that you're also considering a Mercedes or BMW IX3, have you looked at them yet? I'd love to know what you end up choosing. Fingers crossed you find the One! 🤞
Very cheap I'd assume, as much cheaper cars have it. I think it's just some decision within the group to keep the cars from competing with each other 😃
Well, I don't have an in with any car companies that would share with us their purchase prices for various technology solutions with me yet.... maybe one day! 😁
🤔 Many of us have our 'must-have' features in a car. Out of the 6 missing elements in the Volvo EX30 highlighted in this video, which one would be your deal-breaker? Or is there another feature not mentioned that you'd absolutely need? Let's discuss below! 👇
none of that is a dealbreaker for me
That's great! Thanks for the comment. I guess Volvo did a good job picking the compromises.
I will stick with my MG4 thanks. Heads up display and more room in the back.
I'd say the MG4 is always a worthy choice!
You nailed most of the things that I would be missing on the EX30.
One other thing that I would miss are the speakers throughout the car. Even with the soundbar being tuned by a respected brand, I'm sure the sound quality won't be as good as with having more speakers.
Personally I wouldn't mind the car being produced in China though..
I think I'll stick a bit longer to my VW ID.3.. 😅
I definitely agree on the lack of speakers being a buzzkill.. When I test drove a Cupra Born, the version I drove only had a sound bar and the quality was really lacking.
Luckily in the EX30 you get the soundbar only only in the Core trim. The higher trims have a premium Harman/Kardon soundsystem with 9 speakers, 9-channel amplifier with 1040 W Soundbar in the dashboard: centre mid-range speaker, 2x mid-range speakers and 2x tweeters on the sides plust wideband speaker and 2x unique bass in each of the rear door. Also ECS (Externl Coupled Speaker) woofer located behind the dashboard and rear in the luggage compartment. I got to try out the Harman/Kardon system when I test drove Polestar 2 and it was quite wonderful, so as long as you'd go with a higher trim the sound in the EX30 should be pretty good.
How do you feel about the touch steering wheel in your ID.3? I briefly considered it as an option myself, but that steering wheel was such a turnoff for me.
@@siasek I don't know about more speakers in the EX30. It doesn't look like the door panels are made to accommodate speakers.
I would really have to wait and see the car in person...
I don't mind the capacitive buttons on the steering of the ID.3. Yes occasionally I might change the radio channel with an accidental swipe, but it rarely happens. It's not as bad as I thought it would be before buying it. 😁
Check out the introduction videos, the speaker in the back door is visible. Unfortunately, the UK pdf version of the EX30's detailed specs omitted this important information entirely. Seems to me that the UK dealership doesn't like specs all that much. 😄
I admire you for using the touch steering wheel, I dismissed the ID.3 because of it. But I'm glad it's not so bad in real life. Though I still wouldn't go for it, even just out of principle.
@@siasek the touch sensitive buttons are really not as bad as one might think. Though I do understand people being sceptical about them. (I used to be one of them 😅)
I don't know if the Zeekr X will come to the UK, but so far it looks like it's more premium than Volvo EX30. Though most of the journalists consider it to be a bit above average when it comes to the driving experience. I wonder how it compares to the EX3O on that matter.. 🤓
@LorandToth-NL I've heard varying opinions about those touch-sensitive buttons; some really hate them, while others... tolerate them. 😄 Props to you for giving them a shot!
The Zeekr X definitely seems interesting. The interior is for sure more luxurious than the Volvo EX30, but then the EX30 interior has the sustainability aspect, which I can appreciate. Plus the Zeekr X doesn't have a glovebox.. 😬 but then again the EX30 doesn't have that driver display so... The driving experience will be the real test, as you mentioned. I'll try to get my hands on both and do a head-to-head comparison at some point
I love the look of the EX30 inside and out but the lack of a driver's display is a real deal breaker for me, the rest of the things don't bother me as much. I am getting my centre console in my Polestar 2 wrapped in a matte vinyl after it arrives next week.
I feel that, I'd really have to try it out several times before deciding if I could get used to driving without the driver display... it seems really strange. Good call on the matte vinyl wrap. I've thought about doing the same in my e-C4, but have come to the conclusion it's not even worth it in that car. Definitely worth it for the Polestar 2 though. I'd love to see how it looks when it's finished!
Lack of rear vents is cheaping out too. There’s just a hole where the rear vents would normally be. Lack of drivers display or HUD would be my main objection.
Agreed, I think I would miss the driver's display or HUD in a EX30 too, and I don't think the car is so affordable that I would accept that loss. I mean I'm willing to give it a try, maybe I'll be surprised, but it just feel so counterintuitive
In Canada, the real deal breaker is the price of the car. In its base trim the price is 53% higher than US price. It's more than the exchange rate. In comparison, the XC40 Recharge Canadian price (also from Volvo) is less than 15% higher than the US price. Why such a difference for the EX-30 ?
The major problem of building a car in China is the amount of CO2 emitted. For the EX-30 in its base version it's 18 metric tons of CO2. It's a lot for such a small car. In France gas (an diesel) cars emit only 2 tons of CO2 early in average. So building the EX-30 means 9 years of driving with an ICE car. Incredible !!!
I was reading about the crazy Canadian prices in some discussions! Wasn't the price originally supposed to be much lower and then they jacked it up for some reason?
That's so weird... do you also have a 25% tariff like the US on Chinese car imports? The US does and yet they manage to keep the EX30 price reasonable. I guess that the EX30 is so much more expensive than the XC40 Recharge because the EX30 is made in China and the XC40 isn't... Could you possibly import one from the US in the future?
Btw, where do you get your emissions information from? I had no idea about that. Volvo claims the Chinese factory is emission free. The Chinese are very aggressive in adopting environmental rules, no wonder after the emissions problems they have had in major cities.
So much about the EX30 is so great I can overlook a few shortcomings. The driver display doesn't bother me at all, I drove a Scion XB for years without one. I do think the rear seat should have a center armrest. But RWD with a 5.1 0-60, this car is a screaming bargain. And for those who want supercar performance, that's available too in the AWD. Frankly, you're one of the few car reviewers who criticize the EX30. But that's ok, even Michelangelo wasn't perfect.
Seems to me like the Scion XB pretty much has a driver display.. just moved to the right a bit. How'd you like driving it? It looks so boxy, but I can imagine it'd be useful if you haul around a lot of equipment, for example.
I agree with you about the EX30 being a great deal and I've done other videos to that effect, still, I think a little criticism is necessary and keeps things interesting. If we all just talked about how great everything is, I suppose there wouldn't be much reason to watch UA-cam at all and we could just watch promo videos and press releases. 😄
Btw, if you're implying that my criticism is the thing that keeps me from perfection, well, I'm very flattered! 🤭
@@siasek lol, that's a good reply. And I agree criticism is useful. But I'm a little sensitive on the EX30, it's the EV I've been waiting for and I put down the 500 to get one.
I do think it seems like a great car, it just comes down to what one's priorities are. We will have actually have two EX30s in our extended family based on my recommendation, because for their needs it's perfect 👌
The point of the space in the back and boot is something is apparent just looking at it from outside.
It is a very short car, but it has a standard size hood. I guess to have it look like a traditional Volvo. If you compare it to the ID.3, the later has a shorter hood, which makes sense and profits from the benefits of EVs. In other words, Volvo/Geely and other brands are doing cars that look nice/traditional instead of taking advantage of designing a shorter hood, as there isn't a need for it.
You're exactly right! It's a pity Volvo didn't use all that space in the front for a bigger frunk. 😏
Still not sure about the center display since I haven’t driven in a car with no driver’s display yet, but I’ve noticed lately that when I’m driving my own car that I keep looking more to the center screen than the driver display because Waze tells me both the speed limit and my speed.
I drive in some back roads where the speed limit changes a lot so I like that i can instantly check it at any time when posted limits are scarce.
Granted a HUD could do this , but my point is that it doesn’t feel weird or bothersome anymore that I’m looking to my right instead of the front to check my speed. I guess I got used to it and it now feels very natural.
Hmm interesting, thanks for your insight! That makes sense actually, I also look at the center display when using navigation because even though I have a HUD I don't like using the built-in navigation. I do think that the main reason I have a problem with the lack of a driver display is habit. I would definitely need to try out driving without one, perhaps a few times, before I'd commit to buying my next car without it.
Lately Google Maps has been telling me that the speed limit in various residential areas (including my own neighborhood) is 55 mph. I really hope they don't have self driving cars trying to use that data...
@keegan854 Sheesh, that's quite a bit concerning! 😬 Definitely hope self-driving cars have more reliable data sources, or we might see some unexpected "Fast & Furious" scenes in quiet neighborhoods.
Honestly I'm quite apprehensive of self-driving cars. For this and other reasons. Yes, I get that once the systems are perfected it should theoretically be safer than a human driving, but how many times does infotainment and other software glitch in cars now? I don't wanna have to turn it off and and back on again when I'm on a highway or something!
I'm a button guy but that single display looks to be very well designed and easy to use. The lack of a rear center armrest is quite surprising. Since it will be our second car, the lack of rear seat and boot space are not deal breakers.
It seems like a great choice for a second car! I agree with everything you wrote, still would have to test how I'd feel driving without a driver display, but I agree that most of the other stuff is minor, especailly in a second car.
@siasek I think what appears to be a very bold high resolution vital info across the top of the display adequately replaces a driver display.
You're probably right.. I mean I'd still like to test it before comitting, but it is probably just about getting used to it
Glance down to look behind the wheel or glance to the centre area is the same.
Fair enough. I've never driven a car without a driver display, so I have no experience with it, but I suppose it's just about getting used to it. I do think that at least a HUD would be nice. Have you had a car without the display before?
I live in Denmark, a part of Scandinavian, in the north of Europe, and here we do not drives with gloves on in the winter.
@gerlund-garage Thanks for weighing in! I mentioned the glove thing based on some feedback I'd heard, but it's always good to hear another opinion. Goes to show, generalizations don't always apply! 😅
How do you find the cold affecting touchscreen responsiveness and other car tech during the winter months in Denmark?
The driver display and lack of buttons are definitely slight cons, but probably something I coget used to (although it still slightly annoys me in my Tesla).
What will be really interesting with the EX30 is going to be efficiency, Range and Charging. I think they made a mistake with the base model's battery capacity. It's fantastic to have an LFP option, but it should be 60Wh, not below 50. The Volvo has a rather un-aerodynamic shape, and due to that it won't be as efficient as a Model 3. With the added disadvantage of a smaller LFP battery, the "Cheap" version of the EX30 will likely need an additional charging stop compared to the Model 3 SR+ on the same trip, making it far less practical (also due to the less optimal charging network).
I also think the basic version could have had more capacity, but then again, it wouldn't have been as cheap. It's just a compromise. But there is no problem in charging speed, the peak is up to 134 kW and the average power on DC is 80 kW. (Tesla SR 2023 averages 100 kW). So 10-80% in the EX30 Core is in 27 minutes.
I believe Volvo has done a deal with Tesla and EX30 owners will be able to use Tesla chargers,
@@mostwamtv1404 Everyone can do that...if they are willing to register with Tesla and pay a lot more than Tesla owners of course.
You've raised quite a lot of important issues there which are common to several EV models.
The Volvo is one of a number of essentially Chinese cars that are rebadged. It's perhaps the only way they can compete with Tesla.
The lack of display and controls is a big issue for me. It just makes the car even more different than a normal ICE car for no real reason.
I'm not that tall, but the space in the back does look a bit limited, however, the boot is fine as we currently have an Ibiza and it suits us well.
But, we all want cheaper EVs, so these compromises might be necessary.
I'm more shocked at how much EVs depreciate and the hidden costs of owning one.
Thanks for the comment, I'm glad I'm not alone with the buttons and display! I really like Android, but I just want buttons for some things in places they've been for decades! The battery makes up most of the cost of the car anyway, so I don't believe the savings on those buttons are worth it, especially when other cheap EVs have them, even ones on the same platform.
What hidden costs are you referring to? I'd say on the contrary there are none, and you can still sell a used EV very well, much better than a used ICE. Personally tested with my E-golf. 😁
@@siasek There are many hidden costs.
I would have thought stalks would be sufficient to control most stuff? You don't need loads of buttons, just a few to control the most common stuff!
As for running costs, I worked out a few things and got some quotes/prices.
Insurance for a Tesla is twice that of an ICE car equivalent. I suppose they're more expensive to repair?
The insurance excess is twice too.
You'll need a home charger and these are around £1000 in the UK.
You'll really need to home charge as service station costs are horrific, very often not working and are actually slow chargers not rapid.
An EV doesn't need road tax, but servicing is a similar cost.
We were able to see the EX30 in person this week. We are retired, very rarely use the back seat and the boot is ample for our needs. Yes I would like leather but at this price and the eco considerations we are fine with the interiors. So far leaning toward the blue. We really liked the vehicle. My only concern is that I wish it was a bit easier to enter and exit.
That's awesome! I think it's a great choice if you don't really need all that room. I probably like the indigo interior the best so far, it's made with recycled jean materials, but I haven't had a chance to see it in person. Do you find it to be a bit low to the ground or is the entering and exiting a bit tricky due to the size you'd say?
With a bit more consideration now thinking Vapor Gray/indigo, RWD long range. For sure it is lower to the ground than my X3 but I will need another visit to adjust the seating to my preference and then see where we are. I do know the seat height in a Tesla 3 seems very low to me as an example. Tried out the back seat and my initial response was the door was narrow. Probably not enough as to where it is a major consideration though.
Yea, the Tesla 3 feels too low for me as well... Just seems like a lot of work to get in and out every time. I don't need all that 😄
Those rear doors in the EX30 do seem a bit narrow from what I've seen, but I guess it shouldn't be much of an issue if you don't really plan on riding back there. Let me know what you end up picking! I'm sure it'll be fun to drive
Well thought out review.
Thank you! Hope you found it useful 😊
I agree about the glossy surfaces. The rest I would expect or am at least fine with. Excited to see actual reviews from people who have driven it soon.
Yea, that glossy black plastic is a right pain, wish it would stop being so popular already. Definitely looking forward to taking the EX30 out for a spin myself.
I agree that the lack of a driver display feature and at least a one key air conditioner / heater control is an issue and could be actually dangerous as people have to take their eyes from the road to find these controls. This is a deal breaker with Tesla also. Volvo has always catered for the more mature driver, however not with this screen set up.
You're absolutely right, buttons are simply needed for important functions. Everything else is simply about cost savings at the expense of safety. My first and probably favorite car was a Volvo and I loved it so much. I still want to love Volvos now but this move definitely makes me question it
Thanks for raising these points. It’s refreshing to see a video talking about different aspects tah those reviewers following the routine of presenting exterior/interior/ sitting space / infotainment/ driving experience. They are copying each others as robots.
Ah, you noticed that too! That was exactly my frustration while I was researching for my next EV -- lots of the same information over and over again and a distinct lack of details. I did my latest video on the new Citroen e-C3, and all the reviews I watched parroted that the car has a HUD (info from the press release), when it actually only has a projection display. Just a great example of these robot reviews at work 😅.
I'm glad you found my take useful!
Continue like this, your very critical and objective view is a good asset. I wish you all the best for your channel.
Thank you!
That #1 is the reason I don’t like Tesla. I have another ev vehicle w/ a large display to the side. It is actually a driving hazard when I have to use them.
Oh, thank you for your first hand insight. See, this is how I imagine it playing out. It just seems like a weird and unnecessary extra step you have to take (turn your head sideways) and while that may be ok most of the time, I feel like it really would be a hazard in certain perhaps high-stakes, situations..
Totally agree with everything, had a sit in behind the wheel no driving with Volvo USA rep, brought up same points, other than China build, he disagreed. Asked my impression, replied EX30 is a budget economy hatchback, not up to Volvo higher end quality. Says EX30 is a true Volvo compact SUV. MY wife mentioned we had a 1988 Volvo 240DL with over 350,000 miles and doesn’t think EX30 would even come close.
I tend to agree with your wife. My first car was a Volvo 850 sedan and I loved it so much! While I think the EX30 looks like an interesting EV option and I would be tempted to try it, I don't think it'll be a match to the old school OG Volvos that we loved. And the lack of a driver display just feels so weird to me!
Looking at this as potentially our only car. Space is fine, do not ever carry basketball players, and both my wife are on the short end on height. Would like a minimalist gauge for speed, but not a deal breaker. Don't think the lack of buttons is a deal breaker either. Love the size (definitely do not want a hulking huge pedestrian-killing SUV (Ford, GM,... take note). And appreciate the apple car play (Tesla take note).
You're right, I'm a bit sorry they didn't use the electric platform for more space in the back, the long front hood takes up a lot of crew space for no reason. Other than that, I agree. 🙂
The cheap plastic is a deal breaker at that price point.
The cheap black plastic sucks! And SO MANY manufacturers use it. Gaah, I keep hoping that if I point this out in every video maybe one day they'll hear me out. Maybe we should start a petition 😄
The interior is beautiful doesn't look cheap at all. The breeze interior is the nicest of the lot.
I originally quite liked the Breeze in pictures myself, but I think they mainly got the lighting right. In outdoor light I feel like it's not quite it and the seats almost feel too bright for the interior. Plus the speckled surfaces just aren't that great up close. Still, it's a matter of taste of course. I think I like Indigo the best so far, but I have only seen that one in pictures so who knows?
Yep to be fair I've only seen pictures so far, I'm actually getting Indigo as thats the version I can afford so hopefully it's nice! :)@@siasek
It looks the best to me, so I hope that holds up in real life!🤞
Where did you get the cutaway drawing of the car at 2:46? That's really cool and I haven't seen it before.
Hey, I found it on the official Volvo media website. 🙂
In relation to the boot space of the EX30 you probably already know the space below the false boot floor was not added into the calculations and the total boot space with thte false floor removed is 440 Liters.
Oh my gosh!! I've been trying to get an answer to this, because that's what I figured, but when I mentioned it in a previous video I had people telling me I was wrong in the comments. That makes sense to me, thank you for confirming my suspicions. Did you have a chance to measure it?
No Fina I have not physically measured it another car review channel questioned the boot capacity too and was told the full size with the lower divider removed but if its in place then the size you have is correct.
Awesome! I haven't come across that video. Thank you!
I made an error it is not 440 total without using the additional lower compartment (61 Liters) it is 318 with the addition of the area below the false floor 318 plus 61total 379 Litres.
Oh, good call! Thanks
I think it is frivolous and unfair to compare a small car with the characteristics of a large car.
I have a little doubt whether you have seen the car in reality.
For example, I don't understand why you talk about driving with gloves in the car when the steering wheel is heatet.
This is what people complain about in discussions..as I said in the video, the glove thing is not my experience. But I can imagine if I were just going a few blocks for example, perhaps I don't want to be taking off my gloves each time.. either way, I just think buttons are better. You don't have to take your eyes off the road to control them. But hey, if you don't miss them, good. No dealbreaker for you.
The EX30 is a nice small car, I just think it's kind of a shame they didn't utilize the electric platform to leave more room for the crew. There is a lot of unused space in that long front hood that could've been utilized for either more space in the rear or a bigger frunk.
I do miss the simple buttons and heads up display from my xc60 with our new ex30 family car
Oh I bet! Those would be exactly the things I'd miss too. How are you finding it otherwise? Driving dynamics, leg room in the back, etc.?
@@siasekit has alot of beeps and bongs that is still quite an annoyance. Stopping at a round about an looking left and right and it complains about inattentive driving. Rear seat room is fine for kids and bare able for adults but no arm rest and no leg room make it tuff over 45min in the back.
Bluetooth microphone was terrible on our test drive, but fine on our ordered car.
Been good on range 17-21kwh per 10p
There still is an awful lot to like :) its a great car for the choice out there
Don not like the modern look of laptops / ipads on wheels. Dials and buttons please ??
Oh I know right! I can tolerate it to an extent, but I do feel like some brands are really going overboard. It's not ergonomic, quite annoying and I'd say dangerous.
The best combo in my opinion is a large display plus buttons and levers for important things
Volvo just announced that production for the EX30 will expand to Ghent Belgium which is where 40 series are built in addition to China starting in 2025. Very cheap-looking and cramped backseat though I guess that's the point of this car. Apparently only comes with an auto-dimming driver's mirror and interior mirror but not a passenger mirror.
The Belgian production is an interesting move, I wonder what the ratio will be China vs Belgium. I feel like the production costs in Belgium would be quite high and as you say, seems like the point of this car is to offer a cheap EV option 🤷
I don't think you should be critiquing a small car for lack of space/room. What about the crap window switches, and I am not keen on the garden gate style door handles, poor range of colour choices
Hi, I think criticizing the space in the back is perfectly valid - are you familiar with the Skoda Citigo/VW e-UP? How much shorter is that than the EX30 and how much rear seat space it has? I could easily give those basketball players a ride in there! The window switches are a good point, their placement is really odd.
Fair comment re legroom I guess, I will have to wait until I see the car next week. The window switches are the same as the VW ID range at launch - Toggling between front and rear. VW got so much bad press, they converted later cars back to four switches. There is a point at which value engineer becomes laughable
Ditto the unlit touchpads for volume and temperature control and that awful touchscreen steering wheel. VW is done in my book, the degradation from the most ergonomic interiors is unbelievable to me. It's really a shame.
Please let me know your thoughts on the EX30 once you get to try it out! I'd love to know your real-life impressions
Certainly will do
Hey, I went to see the static car today at Vertu Exeter. It is a very nice looking car, well built and good quality materials. I hate the drivers window switch, having to 'toggle' front and back and Volvo have lost the plot re the centre console storage, or rather lack of it
The interior is nice.enough. comparing to.shitty Tesla. You dare say that Tesla interior is better???? 😂😂😂😂
Did I say that?! 😮🫢
no really though, I didn't say that ... I believe I mentioned something about the white interior in a Tesla looking cheap. So to answer your question no, I do not dare 😅
No need to get annoyed. Just avoid buying. there are other options.
Thanks, wouldn't have thought of that! 🤓
I was sure I would trade in my current EV for this car, until I test drove it this past weekend. There’s no aircon at the back
For my kids, and I live in a hot climate, also no arm rest or cup holders for kids. Deal breaker. I also hate that I have to take their plastic seats, leather should be an option (I’m buying this because I can charge it for free off of my solar panels at home, and not because I’m vegan, thanks). The car is “cheap” for an EV but now weighing it up vs. Mercedes EQA and ix3 from BMW …
Ah! I'm so glad someone else noticed these things too! The armrest in the back and the missing airvents would have bothered me so much. Another thing I don't like is the too high power consumption according to early user tests (although that probably doesn't play a big role for you). I don't know about your market, but here the audio is just a soundbar in the front and that just sounds weird, I like to listen to music in the car and this would also bother me. Overall, after a long time, I feel like the EX30 is not as interesting as when it was introduced... I probably wouldn't include it in my selection anymore. It's cool that you're also considering a Mercedes or BMW IX3, have you looked at them yet? I'd love to know what you end up choosing. Fingers crossed you find the One! 🤞
How cheap is it to make a driver display?
Very cheap I'd assume, as much cheaper cars have it. I think it's just some decision within the group to keep the cars from competing with each other 😃
Why assume? Why not find out? Not all much cheaper cars have it. @@siasek
Well, I don't have an in with any car companies that would share with us their purchase prices for various technology solutions with me yet.... maybe one day! 😁
So buy a different car !
👍 Great tip, thank you!
So the point is to complain?
If you think complaining will help you decide whether or not the EX30 is the right car for you, then by all means, go for it! 🙂
😂