Volvo continues to offer insights into its next electric SUV Volvo EX30.
The automaker promised that the new EV would have the lowest carbon footprint of any Volvo vehicle made to date. Now Volvo is over the top using Scandinavian design skills to optimize space in the small car.
La average length of an SUV is between 170 and 197 inches, and Carscoops estimates the EX30 will measure between 165 and 170 inches. That means that to maintain the SUV feel, Volvo will have to get creative with the car's interior.
The full presentation of the EX30 will take place on June 7, but here's what we already know about the use of space inside the vehicle.
A matter of centralization
Much of the EX30's interior is designed to draw the attention of both driver and passenger to the center of the vehicle. This issue of centralization comes hand in hand with the car's 'sound bar', which is basically a collection of speakers that reduces the need for additional wiring and hardware. The sound bar will be perfectly integrated under the windshield, covering the entire width of the dashboard. Volvo claims that the soundbar not only improves audio quality in the cabin, but also eliminates the need for door speakers, creating additional storage space for users.
Similarly, the window switches will also be found on the center console, rather than on the doors. The glove box is also located below the center screen, rather than on the passenger side of the car.
The EX30's center console will be built with a sliding system that allows users to choose how to use the space, according to Volvo. The lower compartment in the center console features an open basket that can accommodate a bag and a smartphone, and below is a sheltered area for small items such as sunglasses. Under what looks like an armrest, the driver or passengers can slide an overhead bin with two cup holders.
For rear passengers, a small storage box slides out from under the center console to provide more storage space, in addition to dedicated pockets in the front seatbacks.
Oh, and if you want to use the small SUV to move some furniture around, Volvo says to check the tailgate for a handy reference size guide.
minimalist infotainment
In the center of the dashboard will be a 12,3-inch screen that will display all the relevant information a driver might need.
"On the single screen, key driving information such as speed and charge levels are prominently displayed at the top, while navigation, media and controls are easily visible and accessible at the bottom. », explains Tom Stovicek, UX manager at Volvo, in a statement. "We also included a contextual bar that offers you the most relevant functions for your needs at all times."
The idea is not to overwhelm the driver with too much stimuli, but to offer a calm view "that strips away all but the most vital information for greater concentration," according to the company. Also, by putting everything on a single screen, Volvo hopes to give the driver a sense of space and save on materials.
Like the C40 Recharge electric crossover, XC40 Recharge electric SUV and XC60 Recharge hybrid, the EX30 will have Google built in. That means it will include hands-free help from Google Assistant, Google Maps, and select apps from Google Play. Volvo says this vehicle will also be the first to have wireless Apple CarPlay functionality.
The infotainment system, powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon Cockpit, will also come with 5G "where available," according to Volvo.
