Award-winning all-rounder
Given its Scandinavian values, Volvo is making a major play for the EV sector, beginning with the XC40 Recharge. The pure-electric premium SUV pulls out all the stops to establish market dominance and has already won several awards for its bouquet of features. Although modelled after the regular XC40, the similarities end at the sleek looks. Instead, the XC40 Recharge channels the brand’s history into one of the most advanced mid-sized all-wheel-drive cars on the market, delivering a practical WLTP-rated range of 410km on a single charge and an output of 408hp – all at competitive lease prices.
Updates over the air
The XC40 Recharge’s flush grill-free front means business. It masks a helpful 31-liter ‘frunk’ storage space, stylish practicality that continues into the elegant and sustainable interior. Conceived to house a full-electric powertrain, there is ample legroom and storage space. Drivers will appreciate the minimalist but crisp high-resolution digital display, fuss-free control and active blind-spot monitoring. The Android infotainment touchscreen extends your smartphone with Google Maps, Play Store and voice-activated Google Assistant. As a first, software and OS updates can be received over the air, but best of all for our changing climate, the XC40 Recharge can be pre-climatised remotely.
Anticipatory performance
Safe but deliciously powerful, the XC40 Recharge manages both high performance and a smooth driving experience thanks to two electric motors of 150kW/300Nm each. The EV also accelerates quickly, hitting 100kph in under 5 seconds – yet this being a Volvo, safety features abound: a rear auto brake, Pilot Assist and Connected Safety – a feature allowing Volvo vehicles to communicate about slippery roads or accidents. On a full battery, the XC40 Recharge does a WLTP-certified 418km, but if you do need to stop, you can charge up to 80% in 40 minutes. Cars are usually designed several years in advance, but the team behind the XC40 Recharge has brilliantly anticipated drivers’ needs with this sustainable, tech-forward all-electric SUV.
Volvo XC40 Recharge specifications
Battery | Battery Capacity: 78.0 kWh | Electric Range: 335km | Fast charge Time (34 > 268 km): 32 min |
Performance | Acceleration 0-100kph: 4.9 sec | Top Speed: 180 kph | |
Miscellaneous | Seats: 5 | Drivetrain: AWD |
