Volvo XC40 Recharge

Volvo XC40 Recharge Launches in India: Volvo’s First All-Electric SUV Arrives

Volvo Cars India has officially entered the electric vehicle market with the launch of the XC40 Recharge, its first fully electric SUV. The launch comes after a year-long delay, with the model now locally assembled from day one. The XC40 Recharge arrives in a single, fully-loaded P8 variant, and is expected to be priced between the Kia EV6 and larger luxury EVs like the Jaguar I-Pace, Audi e-tron, and Mercedes-Benz EQC.

Design & Platform

The XC40 Recharge shares its underpinnings with its ICE sibling, built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform. However, the Recharge model features a facelifted design, including:

• A redesigned front bumper for a sleeker appearance

• New angular LED headlamps replacing the rectangular ones

• Signature Thor’s Hammer LED DRLs retained

Interior & Features

Step inside and you’re greeted with the latest-gen Volvo minimalist interior. Key highlights include:

• 9.0-inch Android-based touchscreen with built-in Google Assistant

• Digital instrument cluster

• No leather upholstery – in keeping with Volvo’s sustainability ethos

• Recycled carpets

• Harman Kardon premium sound system

• Dual-zone climate control with air purifier

• Wireless smartphone integration

• Panoramic sunroof

• Powered front seats with memory function

Volvo ensures there’s no compromise on equipment despite the single-variant strategy.

Performance & Battery

Under the skin, the XC40 Recharge packs serious performance:

• Dual electric motors (AWD) producing a combined

  • 405 bhp

  • 660 Nm of torque

• 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds

• Single-speed automatic transmission

• 79 kWh battery with an estimated range of ~400 km (WLTP)

Launch Context

Although initially slated for a 2021 release, the launch was delayed. Volvo first listed the Recharge on its India website and began pre-bookings last year. With local assembly now in place, the XC40 Recharge is poised to play a significant role in Volvo’s ambitious electrification roadmap for India.