Volvo Cars is taking significant strides toward its goal of becoming a fully electric car brand, marking another milestone this spring with a series of updates aimed at streamlining its UK model line-up while enhancing performance and efficiency.
A notable change comes in the form of uniform naming introduced across Volvo’s UK model range, bringing consistency and clarity. The fully electric C40 Recharge crossover and XC40 Recharge SUV are now rebranded as the EC40 and EX40 respectively, aligning them with their EV stablemates, the EX30 and EX90 SUVs. Meanwhile, the XC40 name remains for the mild-hybrid petrol versions.
Accompanying the name change is the introduction of a new Single Motor Extended Range powertrain for the EC40 and EX40 models. This new powertrain option, available alongside existing rear-wheel-drive Single Motor and all-wheel-drive Twin Motor configurations, offers an impressive driving range of up to 346 miles for the EC40 and 343 miles for the EX40. Equipped with a 78kWh battery and a 252hp electric motor on the rear axle, it promises efficient performance with a maximum charging speed of 140kW.
Owners of the EC40 and EX40 Twin Motor versions will also have the option to enhance their driving experience with an optional Performance software upgrade. This upgrade increases the maximum output from 408hp to 442hp, delivering quicker acceleration and introducing a new Performance mode. Existing owners of previous-model-year C40 and XC40 Recharge cars will also have access to this upgrade.
In addition to these advancements, Volvo is simplifying its price structure and introducing new visual elements to differentiate its electric models. The EC40 features a contrast black roof as standard, along with a new Sand Dune exterior color option available across the EC40, EX40, and XC40 models.
Reflecting Volvo’s commitment to electrification, the Recharge name will be removed from all plug-in hybrid models, and the Ultimate trim level has been replaced with Ultra. Furthermore, technical improvements have been made to the B5 mild-hybrid petrol engine featured in the XC60 and XC90 SUVs, enhancing fuel economy and reducing CO2 emissions.
The updated Volvo models are now available for sale, with first customer deliveries expected in the summer.
