Volvo Says Goodbye To ‘Recharge’

The Swedes have also introduced various product updates.

If you’re unaware, Volvo Cars has set a target to become a fully electric carmaker by the decade’s end. That means sorting out the model lineup. The journey of pure-electric cars started with the XC40 Recharge, which was later joined by its coupe version – the C40 Recharge. However, we also have the EX30, EX90 and EM90. Those are also propelled by nothing other than electricity. So, why have two different naming nomenclatures?

To bring all EVs under one roof, Volvo Cars has renamed the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge to EX40 and EC40, respectively. The XC40 badge, however, will live on to denote the conventionally powered compact SUV. The ‘Recharge’ badge has also been removed from the plug-in hybrids, which will now be labelled by the T6 or T8 suffix, depending on the power output.

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Returning to the EX40 and EC40, the Swedish carmaker has introduced a Performance software pack for their twin-motor derivatives. Besides upping the peak power output to 436hp in the new ‘Performance’ drive mode, the software also ropes in tweaked pedal mapping for faster accelerator response. In select markets, this will be an optional upgrade. Owners of the previous model year, 2024 C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge, can buy and download it.

Moving to the mild hybrids, specifically the B5 derivatives of the XC60 and the XC90. Their engines have been updated to reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel economy (around 4 per cent for the XC60 and 2 per cent for the XC90).

Lastly, Volvo has introduced Black Edition versions of the EX40, EC40 and XC40. Besides flexing the Onyx Black paint, all three models feature badges finished in high gloss black, 20-inch five-spoke rims in high gloss black and the option between textile charcoal or microtech interior themes.