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Volvo Cars Commences Production Of EX30 Electric SUV At Ghent Plant In Europe
Volvo Cars has achieved a significant milestone with the commencement of production for the fully electric EX30 small SUV at its Ghent plant in Belgium. This model, introduced in late 2023, quickly became one of Europe's top-selling electric vehicles in 2024. The Ghent facility will also begin producing the EX30 Cross Country later this year, enhancing Volvo's manufacturing capabilities to meet local demand.
The introduction of the EX30 to the Ghent production line is expected to create approximately 350 new jobs, increasing total employment at the plant to nearly 6,600 people. Francesca Gamboni, Volvo Cars' chief manufacturing and supply chain officer, stated, "The EX30 is crucial for us as we continue to strengthen our position in the premium EV market in Europe." She emphasised that producing the EX30 in Europe aligns with their strategy to manufacture cars where they sell best.
To facilitate EX30 production in Ghent, Volvo invested around EUR 200 million into its Belgian facility. This investment included adding a new car platform, installing nearly 600 new or refurbished robots, expanding the battery hall, and establishing new lines for door production and battery pack assembly. These enhancements support both sustainability and competitiveness within the European Union.
The Ghent plant's location on the outskirts of Belgium’s third-largest city places it strategically within the North Sea port area. Opened in 1965, it remains Belgium's only fully developed car factory. Alongside Torslanda in Sweden, it is one of two operational Volvo manufacturing plants in Europe. A third plant is under construction in Slovakia.
In addition to the EX30, Ghent produces other electrified models such as the fully electric EX40 and EC40, as well as hybrid models like XC40 and V60. In 2024 alone, over 186,000 cars were manufactured at this site. Stefan Fesser, manager of the Ghent plant, praised his team’s efforts: "Thanks to the engagement and collaboration of the entire Ghent team, we cut the industrialisation time in half."
Volvo Cars’ global operations are extensive. Founded in 1927 and headquartered mainly in Gothenburg, Sweden, Volvo operates several production plants worldwide including locations in South Carolina (US) and multiple sites across China. The company also maintains R&D centres in Gothenburg and Shanghai.
Financial Performance
In 2024, Volvo Car Group reported a record core operating profit of SEK 27 billion with revenue reaching SEK 400.2 billion. Global sales hit an all-time high with 763,389 cars sold. As of December 2024, Volvo employed about 42,600 full-time staff members globally.
Volvo Cars aims for sustainability by transitioning towards becoming a fully electric car manufacturer while reducing its carbon footprint significantly by 2040. Their purpose statement reflects this commitment: "For life. To give people the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way."
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