Gas-powered cars have come far in their more than 130-year history, but their inherent efficiency limitations and collective environmental impact have revealed the necessity of finding an alternative. Now, the automotive landscape has started to shift, and battery power is picking up momentum and gaining more ground by the year. Electric is the future, and Volvo is committed to delivering more sustainable automobility for the next generation with its Recharge lineup of plug-in hybrid and electric cars and crossovers.
Volvo's initial pure-electric production model was the XC40 Recharge. And coming soon for the 2022 model year, the all-new C40 Recharge will be the Swedish automaker's first vehicle without a gas-powered counterpart. Here's a look at some of the details.
How is the Volvo C40 Recharge different from the XC40 Recharge?
While the C40 Recharge and XC40 recharge appear similar at first glance and are built on the same Compact Modular Platform, the C40 features several distinguishing attributes. The most prominent differences are the C40's sleek, coupe-like fastback design, a front fascia with sharper angles, new Pixel headlights, and a more dramatic rear fascia with longer zig-zagging brake-lights that break up into dashes on either side of the rear window. The C40's interior is also leather-free, making wider use of sustainable materials, and features intriguing backlit panels resembling an abstract topography map.
What is the C40 Recharge's performance like?
The Volvo C40 Recharge is AWD and powered by two electric motors, one on each axle. Making 402 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque, the C40 Recharge can sprint from zero to 60 mph in under 4.7 seconds.
How far can the C40 Recharge go between charges?
A 75-kWh battery pack gives the Volvo C40's an estimated range of around 210 miles.
How long does it take to charge the C40 Recharge?
The Volvo C40 can add approximately 25 miles of range per hour with Level 2 (240-volt, 11-kW) home charging equipment, filling the battery from empty to 100% in about 8 hours. At a 150-kW DC fast charging station, the C40 can charge from zero to 80% in approximately 40 minutes (50-60 miles of range per 10 minutes).
What is "Pixel" light technology?
The C40's new headlight technology features 84 Pixel LEDs in each headlight, allowing for bright and efficient visibility without distracting oncoming drivers.
Can the C40 Recharge's battery be replaced, and is it covered under warranty?
The battery and battery module are both replaceable. The battery is covered under warranty for 8 years or 100,000 miles.
How does the C40 Recharge help reduce operating costs?
While the average combustion engine converts as little as 12% of gasoline's potential energy to useful work, electric powertrains are more than 77% efficient at turning grid power to horsepower—and electricity is cheaper per mile than gasoline. Additionally, the C40's motors are completely sealed and maintenance-free, meaning no more oil changes or other typical service items that gas-powered cars require.
How much cargo space does the C40 Recharge have?
The Volvo C40 Recharge offers roomy seating for five passengers, with 14.6 cubic feet to spare for your luggage or groceries. With the rear seats folded, available capacity grows to 47.4 cubic feet.
When can I purchase the Volvo C40 Recharge?
Deliveries for the Volvo C40 Recharge will begin late-2021/early-2022. Tacoma drivers can reserve the C40 Recharge today through Volvo Cars Tacoma, and Volvo will reach out to when it's time to build and configure your vehicle for a production order. If you have any questions about the Volvo C40, financing options, or the EV ownership experience, please feel free to contact Volvo Cars Tacoma at your convenience. It will be our pleasure to assist you.