Volvo Cars has officially started production of its highly successful, fully electric EX30 small SUV at its manufacturing plant in Ghent, Belgium. This significant milestone, announced today, underscores the company’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle production capacity in Europe to meet the strong demand for this popular model. The EX30, which quickly became one of Europe’s best-selling electric cars in 2024 following its introduction in late 2023, will now be built in Ghent alongside other electrified Volvo models. This move follows a previous announcement outlining Volvo Cars’ intention to produce the EX30 at the Ghent facility, which is also slated to begin production of the EX30 Cross Country variant later in the year. By further diversifying its global manufacturing footprint for one of its most sought-after vehicles, Volvo Cars aims to enhance its ability to cater to local market needs with greater efficiency and agility.
The decision to include the EX30 in the Ghent production line is expected to generate approximately 350 new jobs at the plant, increasing the total workforce to nearly 6,600 employees. This expansion not only signifies Volvo Cars’ investment in electric mobility but also its contribution to the local economy and employment sector in the Ghent region.
Francesca Gamboni, chief manufacturing and supply chain officer for Volvo Cars, emphasized the strategic importance of this development, stating, “The EX30 is crucial for us as we continue to strengthen our position in the premium EV market in Europe. Investing in the European production of the EX30 in Ghent perfectly aligns with our long-held strategy to build our cars where they sell best. Our flexible global footprint contributes to our resilience, allowing us to adjust our manufacturing plans with agility.”
To facilitate the production of the EX30 in Ghent, Volvo Cars has made substantial investments in its Belgian facility in recent years, totaling around EUR 200 million. These wide-ranging upgrades include the integration of an entirely new car platform to accommodate the electric SUV, the installation of nearly 600 new or refurbished robots to enhance manufacturing efficiency, an expansion of the battery hall to manage the increased volume of battery production, a new door production line to streamline assembly, and the establishment of a new battery pack assembly line dedicated to the EX30.
The commencement of EX30 production in Europe aligns with the European Union’s broader sustainability and competitiveness agenda. This initiative represents a significant investment in a future characterized by job creation, innovation, and the widespread adoption of electrification in the automotive industry. With the Ghent plant joining the Torslanda plant in Sweden, Volvo Cars now produces a diverse portfolio of 10 different electric and hybrid car models within Europe, demonstrating its comprehensive commitment to electrified mobility.
Stefan Fesser, manager of the Volvo Car plant in Ghent, highlighted the rapid industrialization of the new model, stating, “Following a decision in autumn 2023 to bring production of the EX30 to Ghent, we were able to industrialise the new model in record time. Thanks to the engagement and collaboration of the entire Ghent team, we cut the industrialisation time in half. Today, we are extremely proud to welcome the EX30 and demonstrate that new technology and innovation enable us to react more flexibly to market demands.”
The Volvo Cars factory in Ghent, strategically located on the outskirts of Belgium’s third-largest city and at the heart of its North Sea port area, has a long and rich history, having first opened its doors in 1965. Today, it stands as the only remaining fully developed car factory in Belgium. Alongside the Torslanda plant in Sweden, it forms one of Volvo Cars’ two primary car manufacturing hubs in Europe, with a third facility currently under construction in Slovakia, further expanding the company’s European production capabilities. In addition to the newly added EX30, the Ghent plant also manufactures other key electrified models in Volvo’s lineup, including the fully electric EX40 and EC40, as well as the XC40 and V60 hybrid variants. In 2024, the Ghent plant achieved a production volume of just over 186,000 vehicles, underscoring its significant role in Volvo Cars’ global manufacturing operations.
Powertrain and Performance Details: The provided text focuses on the commencement of production for the Volvo EX30 in Europe and does not include specific details regarding the powertrain and performance of the vehicle itself.
Summary:
- Volvo Cars begins production of the fully electric EX30 in Ghent, Belgium.
- The EX30 was a best-selling electric car in Europe in 2024.
- Production in Ghent will create around 350 new jobs.
- Volvo Cars invested approximately EUR 200 million in the Ghent plant for EX30 production.
- The Ghent plant also produces the EX40, EC40, XC40, and V60 hybrid models.
- Volvo Cars now produces 10 different electric and hybrid models in Europe.
- The industrialization of the EX30 in Ghent was completed in record time.
- The Ghent factory opened in 1965 and is the only remaining fully developed car factory in Belgium.
Disclaimer: This article reports on Volvo Cars starting production of the EX30 in Europe based on a press release. It does not provide reviews or technical specifications of the vehicle.
Source: Volvo
AI Assistance: Gemini
