VOLVO is standardising the names for two of its fully electric models, the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, in line with its transformation towards becoming a fully electric car manufacturer by 2030.
Effective immediately, said models are renamed to EX40 and EC40 respectively, following in the footsteps of other Volvo fully electric models, which are the EX30, EX90 and EM90. The XC40 name remains for internal combustion-powered variants of the model.
The update also includes the removal of Recharge badging from Volvo’s 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 Volvo models are fully electric and which are hybrids.
The Swedish automaker is 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 25 kW (34 hp) for faster acceleration, also includes unique pedal mapping for quicker accelerator response and a ‘Performance’ drive mode to unlock the full 325 kW (436 hp).
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 can purchase and download the software from the comfort of their sofa.
Additionally, B5 mild hybrid petrol variants of XC60 and XC90 now employ a more efficient engine combustion cycle, expected to result in CO2 emission reductions and fuel economy improvements of up to around 4% for the XC60 and around 2% for the XC90 based on the WLTP cycle.
There are also a special Black Edition of the EX40, EC40 and the XC40. The Black Edition models come with Onyx Black paint, high gloss black badging, 20-inch five-spoke alloys in high gloss black and the choice between microtech or textile charcoal interiors.