Volvo has announced a delay in the U.S. release of its highly anticipated compact all-electric SUV, the EX30. Despite a vigorous marketing campaign that has been ongoing for over a year, the Swedish automaker has decided to postpone the introduction of the EX30 until 2025.

Russell Datz, a spokesperson for Volvo, cited changes in the global automotive landscape as the primary reason for this delay. Additionally, Datz mentioned the need to ramp up production at Volvo’s plant in Ghent, Belgium, with a new target delivery date set for 2025.

Volvo began accepting pre-orders for the 2025 EX30 following its formal introduction last year. At that time, the expected starting price for the U.S. market was announced to be $36,145, including a $1,195 destination charge. Datz assured customers with existing preorders that Volvo would offer several options to drive a new Volvo until their EX30 arrives, though specific details on these options are yet to be disclosed.

Volvo remains committed to bringing the EX30 to the U.S. market, emphasizing that the vehicle is a key part of the company’s ongoing strategic transformation. The EX30 is already available in European markets, and its delayed U.S. arrival is partly due to geopolitical factors. During a recent conference call with dealers, Volvo executives hinted that the shift of assembly from China to Belgium might be influenced by the Biden administration’s recent imposition of high tariffs on cars imported from China.

Initially, the EX30 was expected to be available in the U.S. earlier this year. The model will be offered with two powertrain options, both utilizing a 69-kilowatt-hour cobalt-lithium-manganese-nickel composite battery, with 64 kWh being usable. The base model, known as the Single Motor Extended Range, features a rear-wheel-drive layout and produces 268 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. Volvo anticipates that this version will have a range of 275 miles on the U.S. EPA test cycle.

As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, Volvo’s strategic adjustments aim to ensure that the EX30 will meet the high expectations of its future U.S. customers. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting addition to Volvo’s electric vehicle lineup.