Volvo Introduces 2021 XC40 Recharge
Volvo officially - and virtually - presented the all-new 2021 XC Recharge all-electric small SUV this week; we take a look, ahead of our first drive next week.
This week we were given an in-depth look at what the upcoming Volvo XC40 Recharge fully electric vehicle (BEV) is all about. This is the first all-electric Volvo-badged vehicle, and for the company it constitutes a first big step towards its goal of attaining carbon-neutrality by 2040.
You have to look closely to see the differences between the XC40 Recharge (the “Recharge” branding will be applied to all plug-in hybrid or EV Volvos going forward) and its gas-powered sibling. The front grille opening has been replaced by a body-coloured panel that now houses all the necessary sensors for the autonomous driving aids. (Since there’s no engine up front, there’s less of a requirement for cooling and so the grille is no longer needed).
Other changes include an all-new Recharge-specific colour called Sage Green Metallic, special wheels measuring either 19 or 20 inches, “Recharge” branding on the upper C pillars and unique tailgate badges. Impressively, Volvo – much like Kia with their Soul EV – managed to take the exact shape they were working with – a compact shape, no less – and fit a big 78 kWh battery in there without having to change very much of the XC40’s shape.
Nor was much else sacrificed: passenger space is the same and the rear underfloor storage that was lost when they stuffed the battery in there has been made up thanks to the existence of a storage bin under the hood, or a “frunk”. Yes, just like in a Porsche Boxster or 911.
Read more