Volvo has officially started EX30 production in Europe at its Ghent, Belgium plant. The move follows the EX30’s earlier success in Europe, where it became one of the best-selling EVs in 2024. However, because the EX30 was initially made in China, it faced additional EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
Now, Volvo is shifting gears. By starting local production, the company avoids tariff complications and strengthens its European operations. Later this year, the Ghent factory will also begin making the EX30 Cross Country variant.
The addition of the EX30 line at Ghent creates around 350 new jobs. Consequently, the plant’s total workforce will grow to nearly 6,600 people.
To prepare for the EX30, Volvo invested approximately €200 million into the facility. The upgrades include a brand-new car platform, 600 new or refurbished robots, an expanded battery hall, a new door production line, and a modern battery pack assembly line.
Between its Ghent, Belgium, and Torslanda, Sweden plants, Volvo now produces 10 different electric and hybrid models in Europe. The Ghent factory, opened in 1965, remains the only fully developed car factory in Belgium, according to Volvo. Meanwhile, the company is building a third European plant in Slovakia to further expand production capabilities.
Currently, Ghent also manufactures the EX40 and EC40 models. In 2024 alone, the facility produced slightly over 186,000 cars.
By boosting Volvo EX30 production in Europe, the automaker not only sidesteps tariffs but also strengthens its commitment to local manufacturing and sustainable growth in the EV sector.
