Volvo Cars is streamlining and standardising its model names for fully electric cars, in line with their ongoing transformation towards becoming a fully electric car maker by 2030. The fully electric XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge models are renamed to EX40 and EC40 respectively, now seamlessly fitting in with the other fully electric models: the EX30, EX90 and EM90.
The move reflects the transformation towards becoming a fully electric car manufacturer. In 2023, fully electric cars represented 16 per cent of global sales volumes, an increase of 70 per cent versus 2022. The EX30,EX90 and EM90 will all hit roads this year and bring the number of fully electric models in Volvo’s product portfolio to five, with several newer models to come.
In Ireland, we are getting even closer to our 2030 electrification target, last year 27% of total sales were fully electric cars. The EX30 arrived in the country earlier this year and is now available for test drives, with the EX90 expected in the second half of the year. The update also includes the removal of Recharge badging from the plug-in hybrid models, which are now denoted simply by the T6 or T8 suffix indicating different levels of power output.
The new and streamlined model name standard makes it even easier for existing and new customers to understand which of the models are fully electric and which are hybrids, as they shop for a new Volvo car.
“By aligning our trailblazing first electric models with the rest of our electric car portfolio, we simplify choice for consumers as we continue to electrify our line-up and refresh our hybrids.” says Björn Annwall, our chief commercial officer and deputy CEO.
Volvo are also introducing a new Performance software pack for the EX40 and EC40 Twin Motor variants, and as an upgrade for the previous model year in selected markets. The Performance software pack, which increases power output by 25kW for faster acceleration, also includes unique pedal mapping for quicker accelerator response and a unique ‘Performance’ drive mode to unlock the full 325kW.
In available markets, the Performance software will be offered as an optional upgrade pack via the Volvo Cars app when ordering a new car, while drivers of previous model year 2024 C40 and fully electric XC40 Recharge cars can purchase and download the software from the comfort of their homes.
Finally, Volvo are introducing a special Black Edition of the EX40 and EC40 following the success of the XC60 Black Edition launched last year. The Black Edition models come with Onyx Black paint, high gloss black badging, 20-inch five-spoke alloys in high gloss and a microtech charcoal interior.
The EC40 and EX40 are as compelling as ever, with Google built-in and smart interior storage – and in the case of the electric duo, electric range of up to 583 kilometres for the EC40 and up to 576 kilometres for the EX40.
Here in Ireland the new EC40 and EX40 will be available to order from April 3rd.
