Depending on how you count, the 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge is the first ever electric car from Volvo. While it’s a variant of the gas powered XC40, there is much to love about this electric vehicle.
The Recharge has a driving range of 208 miles as certified by EPA. That is coming from the 75 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which will be able to use DC fast chargers for more rapid top ups (from 0% to 80% in 40 minutes). Drawing from the battery are two electric motors placed one of each of the front and back wheel axles, making the car an all-wheel drive. The motors combined give a respectable 402 hp and move the car from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 4.7 seconds. The speed tops out at 112 mph. You will be able to drive one-pedal, meaning lots of regenerative braking will top up the battery on your rides around town.
Inside the Recharge, nothing much has changed from the ‘regular’ XC40’s minimalist design. The seats are still comfortable and spacious, with nothing for tall passengers to worry about. (The car comes alive when the driver sits in the driver’s seat, which is a neat trick) Cargo space is ample and the back seats can be folded for even more storage. With no ICE taking up space in the front trunk, you get to store even more things at the front.
The Recharge has a 12.3 inch console for controlling the features. A new car software developed with Google powers the infotainment system, allowing you to use voice controls, although CarPlay is also integrated. Volvo is promising lots of over the air updates for the software. Harmon Kardon contributed the sound system for your listening pleasure.
Volvo is also catering to the environmentally conscious crowd in the choice of materials for the interior. The carpet for example, is derived from recycled plastic. The Recharge has a raft of driver assistance tech to keep you safe on the highway. The list includes automated emergency braking, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.
Pricing will start from $55,000. Details about possible trims and their features are not available at this moment. Volvo is offering free maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles. Warranty is also available. Volvo has made a name for itself making practical cars and the XC40 Recharge lives up to the reputation.
Written by D.O. for www.ShargeMe.blog