How Volvo’s Electric EX40 Became the Ultimate Fashion Week Companion for Navigating Paris in Style and Comfort

Paris, France — Amid the chaos of Paris Fashion Week, where editors zigzag across the city from sunrise shows to late-night soirées, the need for a reliable, comfortable ride becomes less of a luxury and more of a lifeline. This season, L’OFFICIEL USA Editor-in-Chief Caroline Grosso found her answer in the sleek quiet of Volvo’s fully electric compact SUV, the EX40.

Navigating the fashion capital during its busiest week means facing notorious city traffic, surprise rainstorms, and the inevitable scramble between iconic venues like the Marais and the Rive Gauche. But behind the wheel—or more often, in the passenger seat—of the EX40, Grosso experienced a rare reprieve: a moment of stillness amidst the frenzy.

Compact yet high-performing, the EX40 proved a valuable ally in tackling Fashion Week’s logistical hurdles. With its 360-degree camera system, responsive navigation, and nimble handling, the SUV managed tight curbside pickups at spots like Palais de Tokyo with ease. Inside, the minimalist Swedish design lent itself to productivity and peace—perfect for catching up on emails, reviewing notes, or simply decompressing before the next show.

Volvo’s Scandinavian ethos of simplicity and human-first design was evident throughout the vehicle. The interior struck a balance between function and elegance, with thoughtful features like wireless device charging, ample storage for essentials like cameras and notebooks, and advanced air purification to counteract the city’s smoggy moments.

Tech-forward, the EX40 also includes Google Maps integration, Apple CarPlay, and a voice-controlled Google Assistant, all wrapped in a Harman Kardon audio experience that makes even traffic jams feel like part of the show. With up to 296 miles of range on a full charge, range anxiety was one concern Grosso didn’t have to add to her Fashion Week checklist.

As day turned to night and the city’s energy shifted from runway to restaurant, the EX40 adapted seamlessly. Ambient lighting cast a warm glow over its sculptural interior panels, setting the scene for evening drives to chic destinations like Château Voltaire.

While Paris Fashion Week remains a celebration of couture, craftsmanship, and creativity, it’s the unseen elements—like a dependable ride—that keep the machine running. In a week where time is scarce and the schedule relentless, Volvo’s EX40 offered not just transportation, but a much-needed sense of control.