Volvo announced that the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge are now called EX40 and EC40, as part of the latest model year updates. The fully electric crossovers also benefit from a power boost for the twin motor powertrain, and are now available in dark-themed Black Edition trims.
The new names bring the EX40 and EC40 in line with the rest of Volvo‘s fully electric lineup (EX30, EX90, and EM90). It also helps the EX40 further differentiate from the ICE-powered XC40 which keeps its old name, making it easier for customers to tell apart the EVs from the hybrids. Speaking of which, the plug-in hybrid trims of the XC40 lose the “Recharge” badging and are simply called T6 and T8.
More: Volvo’s Combustion Cars Will Get One Last Redesign Before Brand Goes All EVs
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Besides the new emblems on the tailgate, the EX40 and EC40 Twin Motor variants benefit from the new Performance software pack adding 34 hp (25 kW / 34 PS) of power, alongside a new pedal mapping for quicker accelerator response. The full 436 hp (325 kW / 442 PS) is accessible through a new “Performance” driving mode. The same treatment will also be available for the previous model year (2024) in selected markets as part of an optional over-the-air software update.
Those who loved the murdered-out looks of the Volvo XC60 Black Edition will be happy to learn that the XC40, EX40, and EC40 are now available with the same spec. The Onyx Black exterior shade is combined with high gloss black badging and a matching finish for the 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, the Black Edition models are available with either microtech or textile charcoal upholstery. All trims come standard with Google built-in.
Volvo Hopes To Sell More EVs
Volvo remains committed to becoming an EV-only automaker by 2030. Last year, electric cars accounted for 16 percent of Volvo’s global sales volume. This number may not sound that impressive but it represents a 70 percent year-to-year increase and is expected to grow further in 2024 thanks to the upcoming EV launches. Besides the EX30, EX40, EC40, EX90, and EM90, Volvo promised that “several more new models” will join its zero-emission lineup in the near future.
As a final note, Volvo added a more efficient mild-hybrid gasoline engine to the B5 trims of the XC60 and XC90, reducing CO2 emissions and improving fuel efficiency by 4 percent and 2 percent respectively.
