The model was originally produced exclusively in China, but with additional manufacturing now taking place in Europe, it aims to better meet local demand. In a strategic move to better serve key markets, Volvo has begun producing its EX30 electric car in Ghent, Belgium, bringing manufacturing closer to where the model is in highest demand.
The compact SUV was initially produced exclusively in Zhangjiakou, China, and then distributed worldwide.
However, Volvo made the decision in October 2023 to increase production capacity within the European Union to better cater to demand in this key market. By the first quarter of 2025, the EX30 ranked as Europe’s 13th best-selling EV, surpassing models like the Audi Q4 E-tron, Cupra Born, and Mercedes-Benz EQA.
The choice to ready the Ghent plant for the EX30 proved to be a wise move, especially after the European Union implemented punitive tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, including the Volvo crossover, last year.
At the time, Volvo indicated it might shift its production strategy in response to evolving trade dynamics. Vehicles assembled in Belgium could be prioritized for delivery within the EU, effectively sidestepping potential tariffs.
Meanwhile, production of Chinese-made models would be scaled up for markets unaffected by those tariffs—such as the UK.
“We’ll begin production of the EX30 at our Ghent facility in Belgium in the first half of next year, and then steadily shift into higher gear,” former Volvo CEO Jim Rowan stated last year.
“In the interim, we’re well-positioned to supply the vehicle to a range of markets that remain unaffected by tariffs—for example, several countries across Southeast Asia, as well as the UK,” the company noted.
Francesca Gamboni, Volvo’s Chief Manufacturing and Supply Chain Officer, emphasized the strategic importance of the EX30 to the brand’s European presence, describing the model as “crucial” to Volvo’s position in the region. She also highlighted the value of production flexibility, noting that it “strengthens our overall resilience.”
Volvo invested €200 million (£171m) into upgrading its Ghent plant for the production of the EX30, which included installing a new assembly line, 600 robots (some new, some refurbished), and a dedicated battery pack production line, among other enhancements.
This factory is also responsible for assembling the electric EC40 and EX40, as well as hybrid models like the XC40 and V60.
Originally, Volvo had planned to introduce the EX30 to the US market after 2025. However, it has yet to confirm whether this timeline is still valid due to the 25% tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump on all foreign-built cars.