The Volvo EX30, the automaker’s compact electric crossover, has started arriving at U.S. dealerships, with the dual-motor variant currently available ahead of the forthcoming single-motor version priced under $40,000.
While the EX30 offers strong acceleration, Volvo’s official fast-charging claims were recently put to the test in a real-world scenario.
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According to Volvo, the EX30 Twin Motor Performance variant delivers an estimated range of 253 miles on a full charge and can charge from 10% to 80% in 26 minutes using a DC fast charger. However, a recent charging test conducted by EV Buyers Guide found that charging times may vary depending on conditions.
In the test, a U.S.-spec EX30 was brought down to a 3% state of charge (SoC) before being connected to an Electrify America charger. Charging speeds fluctuated, starting at 20 kW and reaching approximately 150 kW at 8% SoC. As the battery level increased, charging speeds declined, with 70% SoC achieved at 67 kW and 80% at 45 kW. The total time to reach full charge from 3% was recorded at one hour and ten minutes.
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The study found that charging from 10% to 50% took 12 minutes, providing 101 miles of range at a rate of 8.4 miles per minute. Extending charging to 60% yielded 126 miles at 7.9 miles per minute, while reaching 80% added 5.9 miles per minute. The findings suggest that shorter, frequent charging stops may be more efficient for long-distance travel rather than charging to a higher SoC in one session.
Despite taking longer than Volvo’s official estimate, the EX30 demonstrated strong fast-charging performance compared to other EVs in its class, including the Hyundai Kona EV, Kia Niro EV, and Chevrolet Bolt EV.
See also: Volvo Considers U.S. Battery Suppliers Amid CATL Tariff Impact on EX90 Pricing
