Volvo C40 Recharge gains a single motor variant and the XC40 gets a design refresh

Volvo’s range of ‘Recharge’ branded EVs has gained another model. Following the introduction of a single motor version of the XC40 Recharge – not to mention a single motor version of the Polestar 2 with which Volvo shares so much – the C40 will now be available with a single motor option. Alongside this, Volvo has also refreshed the design of the XC40 Recharge.  

Launched this time last year, the Volvo C40 Recharge is essentially the coupe version of the XC40 Recharge all-electric SUV. Offering a sportier and more dynamic looking option for buyers wanting a stylish alternative to the more obvious coupe SUVs from the VW Group, the C40 has been offered exclusively with a dual motor, 402bhp powertrain.

Now, Volvo has launched it in single motor guise. It loses the rear motor, meaning this variant is front-wheel drive and comes with a perfectly reasonable 227bhp.

Holding power for this new version is a 69kWh battery – 9kWh smaller than the one in the dual motor C40 – offering a range of up to 269 miles, which is as near as makes no real world difference to that of the dual motor variant. Charging can be undertaken at up to 150kW meaning 10 to 80 per cent is achieved in just 32 minutes.

The Volvo C40 Recharge single motor will start from £44,800 in ‘Core’ spec, representing an almost £11,000 saving compared to the C40 Recharge Plus with the dual motor powertrain, which costs from £55,550. ‘Plus’ and ‘Ultimate’ versions of the C40 Recharge single motor are also available, though in all cases buyers will be waiting at least six months for delivery.

Volvo XC40 Recharge refreshed

Alongside the introduction of a new C40, Volvo has given the XC40 Recharge a design refresh. A new front bumper and frameless grille bring it in-line with the newer C40 Recharge. New exterior colours and wheel styles are also now available in the options list. On the inside are new leather-free upholstery options.

According to Robin Page, Head of Design at Volvo, “with the refreshed fully electric XC40, we continue to evolve its instantly recognisable design, creating a more modern face with a sleeker front and an even more integrated grille”.

Both the new C40 Recharge and the refreshed XC40 Recharge are available to buy immediately, albeit with the aforementioned waiting period.