Volvo EX40 Electric

I switched to my new Volvo EX40 in November 2024 and it's been a fantastic introduction to the EV world. The car delivers strong performance with instant acceleration and a whisper-quiet drive. Features like park assist, auto brake, 360-degree camera, and comprehensive safety systems make city driving and tight parking effortless. The range is decent for daily use, and the availability of multiple AC charging locations in Singapore adds to the convenience.

That said, the EX40 does have some areas that could be improved. The cabin doesn't quite feel premium for its price tag, and the rear seat has a transmission hump that affects passenger comfort. The infotainment system feels a bit barebones - it only supports wired Apple and Android CarPlay, lacks a heads-up display, and the sound system is fairly average. Features like ventilated seats, an improved wireless charger, auto speed limiter, and driving journal are missing or not yet enabled for the Singapore market.

Overall, it's a solid EV with excellent driving dynamics and safety features, but there's definitely scope to enhance its tech and interior refinement.

I"Ve owned this car for 6 months. Despite it not being a new or dedicated EV platform, this car has its strengths.

1) Android Automotive OS. Gets regular OTA updates (a rarity on most other EVs from legacy brands), which means you don't have to keep connecting your phone via Android Auto or Carplay. This saves your phone battery. The OTA updates bring small but meaningful software improvements. That said, sometimes the system may be a bit buggy. You also get built in route planning with charger stops and % estimated charge at each destination. Besides Tesla, most other EVs in the Spore market don't offer this.

2) Ride. Nice steering feel, effective one pedal drive option, good comfort and NVH levels. The adaptive cruise control works well and the built in safety systems aren't intrusive/annoying. Power and torque are more than adequate for most folks.

3) Efficiency is ok. I get about 15kWh/100km for local driving.

4) Backseat room is not bad, but the presence of the middle hump is suboptimal compared to the flat floor some other EVs offer. A retractable roof shade is built in, which is important for our hot and sunny weather.

If you discuss with the sales executives, you can probably get a decent discount on the price of the car, which makes it much more attractive and competitive compared to non-premium car brands e.G. BYD, Tesla, Hyundai and a bit of a steal compared to traditional premium brands e.G. Audi, BMW, Merc.

Overall, I'm happy with the car, but excited to see what the next generation EX40 can bring with the SPA3 platform in a few years time.