Skip to main content

Volvo hints the EX30 could be exported from Belgium to the US to avoid new EV tariffs

With new tariffs introduced on EVs made in China, Volvo is criticizing the EU’s decision, saying it will only hurt buyers. Meanwhile, Volvo suggested the US-bound EX30 could come from Belgium as it looks to avoid newly introduced tariffs.

Volvo began building its new low-cost EV, the EX30, in Zhangjiakou, China, last fall. With a starting price around $38,500 (36,000 euros), Volvo’s EX30 is already off to a hot start.

The EX30 is “one of the best-selling fully electric cars in Europe” in its first few months on the market, according to Björn Annwall, chief commercial officer and deputy CEO at Volvo Cars. Volvo sold 14,500 EX30 models in the first three months of 2024, nearly topping the EX40 at 17,400.

Volvo, owned by China’s Zhejiang Geely, is criticizing the EU’s planned tariffs on EV exports from China.

The European Commission revealed plans to impose additional tariffs on Chinese-made EVs by up to 38.1% last week. Geely was on the list with a 20% additional tariff.

Volvo’s deputy CEO, Bjorn Annwall, told the Automotive News Europe Congress in Frankfurt last week that the company supports open and fair trade. “Anything that gets in the way of that is not a good thing.”

Volvo-EX30-tariffs
Volvo EX30 Cloud Blue and Vapour Grey (Source: Volvo)

Volvo hints EX30 could come from EU amid new tariffs

In the end, the customer will pay, Annwall explained. Volvo plans to begin EX30 production in Ghent, Belgium, but not until 2025.

According to Annwall, the EX30 could be exported from Belgium to the US. The comments come after the US raised tariffs on Chinese EVs by up to 100% last month.

Volvo-EX30-tariffs
Volvo EX30 (Source: Volvo)

Volvo is preparing to launch the EX30 in over 90 countries by the end of 2024. In the US, the 2025 Volvo EX30 starts at $34,950, making it one of the most affordable EVs on the market. It also features up to 275 miles range.

Despite its low cost, the EX30 comes loaded with the tech and safety features expected from Volvo. Volvo’s EX30 includes Google built-in, with Apple CarPlay.

Volvo-EX30-tariffs
Volvo EX30 interior (Source: Volvo)

The EX30 is offered in two powertrains: a Single-Motor Extended Range and a Twin-Motor Performance.

Volvo is standing by its commitment to going all-electric by 2030 despite rivals pulling back on EV plans, citing “slower-than-expected” demand.

Annwall said premium brands, like Volvo, will have an easier time growing EV sales because they can achieve price parity with their corresponding ICE models sooner. Volvo plans to reach that “well before 2030,” Annwall said.

Source: Automotive News

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Stay up to date with the latest content by subscribing to Electrek on Google News. You’re reading Electrek— experts who break news about Tesla, electric vehicles, and green energy, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow Electrek on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our YouTube channel for the latest reviews.

Comments

Author

Avatar for Peter Johnson Peter Johnson

Peter Johnson is covering the auto industry’s step-by-step transformation to electric vehicles. He is an experienced investor, financial writer, and EV enthusiast. His enthusiasm for electric vehicles, primarily Tesla, is a significant reason he pursued a career in investments. If he isn’t telling you about his latest 10K findings, you can find him enjoying the outdoors or exercising

Manage push notifications

notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications
notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications