VOLVO Philippines recently launched its first two fully electric models in its local lineup – the new Volvo C40 and Volvo XC40 Recharge. Dubbed the brand’s “twin” models, Volvo claims that these all-electric models share similarities yet exude a distinct individuality and appeal.
“Our pure electric Volvo C40 and XC40 Recharge are siblings that carry the trademark Volvo DNA of safety, quality, and sustainability. Yet even identical twins still have different personalities, as does our all-electric duo. One thing for sure is that both Volvos are designed to provide our customers with the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable, and safe way,” said Volvo Philippines president and CEO Atty. Alberto B. Arcilla.
It is important to note that Volvo Cars was the first established carmaker to commit to all-out electrification in 2017. The United Nations (UN) assembly announcement was a watershed moment in the industry. The UN recognized the company’s ground-breaking electrification strategy, with other carmakers following suit. Today, all cars in the Volvo range have an electrified version. Volvo plans to become a fully electric car company by 2030, aiming for all new vehicles to be pure electric. In the Philippines, Volvo was also the first car brand to launch a Plug-in Hybrid variant for various models. Subsequently, the Volvo XC40, XC60, XC90, and S90 models introduced a range of boost hybrids.
Design-wise, the EV duo exudes dynamic design language inside and out. The two models feature a contemporary Scandinavian design and more sustainable materials. The C40 Recharge has all the benefits of an SUV but with a lower and sleeker design. Its coupe-like roofline is a key differentiator. Its rear end features a striking design complementing the lower roof line, while the new front design introduces a new face for electric Volvos and includes headlights with state-of-the-art pixel technology. On the other hand, the XC40 Recharge also features a new front bumper and a frameless grille plate, keeping it visually in sync with the Volvo C40 Recharge, aligning the two cars that symbolize Volvo Cars’ electrification journey.
Additionally, these models offer premium leather-free upholstery interiors, a panoramic sunroof, an advanced air purifier system, and smart cabin solutions. Regarding tech, both the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge come with one of the best infotainment systems on the market, jointly developed with Google and based on the Android operating system. A Volvo electric car seamlessly connects to one’s digital life with Google built-in. The twin models are also equipped with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon system with a staggering 600 Watts total power output. Volvo’s advanced air purifier system is also available, preventing up to 80 percent of hazardous PM 2.5 particles from entering the cabin. Further, there is Volvo’s advanced driver assistance technology.
Volvo also claims it has been a leader in the automotive industry for decades, especially in safety and environmental care. Even before sustainability mobility became a trend, Volvo recognized its role in the environmental movement.
Volvo C40 and XC40 Recharge are based on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) advanced vehicle platform. Both models are propelled by the same All-Wheel Drive (AWD) twin-motor powertrain. These EVs run at 408 electric horsepower and 660 N-m of torque. The Volvo C40 accelerates at 4.7s (0-100kph), while the Volvo XC40 rockets at 4.9s (0-100kph), with zero emissions and pure electrifying power. The next-generation electric powertrain increases the capacity of the C40 and XC40 Recharge, giving a more extended range of 549 km and 537 km, respectively. It also offers quicker DC fast charging, generally from 10% to 80% percent in just 27 minutes.
“The Volvo pure electric C40 and XC40 Recharge models will pave the way for more people to enjoy the full electric mobility experience. Both models are superior in terms of power, range, charging speed, and battery capacity. Even more enticing is that all these features are tied up in the most competitive ownership package in the whole industry,” said Chris Lee Yu, Marketing Director of Volvo Philippines.
These all-new, all-electric Volvo models come at a special introductory price of P3.990 million for the XC40 Recharge and P4.190 million for the C40 Recharge. Even so, these EV models come with a Volvo Ownership Package with an 8-year battery warranty, 5-year roadside assistance, a 3-year comprehensive car warranty, one wall box charger, and unlimited digital update service. New exterior colors are also available to offer further possibilities for personalization.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino