2022 Volvo C40 Recharge

We’ve known for quite a while now that Volvo has big plans for going fully-electric in less than a decade. This week, we see a big step in that plan, the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge.  

Similar in size, and sharing its architecture with the current XC40 Recharge, the C40 keeps the high SUV seating position and typical full lower body cladding, but wraps it in sloping, coupish-roof sheet-metal with lots of sporty black trim, lending more of a tall hatchback vibe.

Power is therefore familiar, a twin-motor setup providing 402-horsepower, standard all-wheel-drive, and a 78-kWh battery pack delivering more than 200-miles of range; though Volvo promises that over-the-air updates could potentially extend that.  150-kW D.C. fast charging will get an 80% charge in as little as 40-minutes.  

John Davis: "Every European automaker does fast back versions of their boxy SUVs. So, the XC40 Recharge based Volvo C40 Recharge is a logical, and much handsomer move. While more range is clearly needed, it does prove Volvo can adapt their costly electric R&D to models with very different character and market appeal."

Inside the C40 Recharge you’ll find Volvo’s commitment to sustainability. No leather will be available, but there is a unique topography-like trim.  

Also, a Google Android-based interface that allows you to “Hey Google” your way to whatever you want the car to do.  There is slightly less rear cargo space than the XC40, but it has the same front under-hood storage compartment.  

With the launch of the C40 Recharge, Volvo has also announced that all EV sales will now be conducted online, with a highly simplified point-and-click buying experience, and 5-years of maintenance included. 

Jessica Ray: "So does this mean no more dealerships? Not necessarily.You're still going to need a place to service your EV and you're still going to want to test drive any car that you buy. So while they won't have the inventory like they do now, they'll have models for you to come in and take a test drive in. But then you have to go home and purchase it for a set price online. But keep in mind that these EVs will have less configurations so that Volvo can sell them to you at that set price and also should make production and delivery much quicker. So for those who are not so keen on the dealership experience, this seems like a pretty attractive way to buy a car."

You can place an order now, but U.S arrivals of the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge won’t happen until early next year. We’ll have pricing and a whole lot more info before then, here on MotorWeek.