Volvo C40 Recharge: Defining the Future of Electric Luxury

For an automaker that consistently pioneers innovation, we expect nothing less than stellar production. Volvo, just so happens to be one of the few luxury automakers that rarely misses the mark. Even their sales have shown a positive year-on-year trend despite mounting changes in the automotive industry. Why? Because safety continues to define this longstanding brand. 2021, however, was most notable for their grand, and rather impressive, entrance into the electric sector. As part three of our Year in Review series, we chose to highlight some of the amazing accomplishments made by Volvo Cars within the last 12 months. Let’s just say, one look at the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge and you’ll be more inclined to embrace this new standard of luxury.

Introducing the Volvo C40 Recharge

Big for 2021 came the reveal of CX40, a full-size electric SUV, with comparable body shape to Volvo’s gas guzzling counterparts. So far, the real standout among Volvo’s electric production has been the 2022 C40. It is Volvo’s first fully-electric compact SUV and delivers in more ways than one. First, its lower roofline and futuristic exterior tug at the heartstrings of electric enthusiasts. Second, it comes equipped with the same powertrain as the CX40 so performance is neither sacrificed. And on top of that, its compact nature does not result in less power. The Volvo C40 Recharge can actually tow more than its bigger compeer!

Making the switch to sustainable materials with the Volvo C40 Recharge

In general, the luxury sector is predominately defined by leather interiors and elegant finishes. In 2021, Volvo made claims to make a change from that expectation. The Volvo C40 Recharge is the first car to be completely leather-free. According to a statement from Volvo, “By 2025, we aim for 25 per cent of the material in new Volvo cars to consist of recycled and bio-based content.” This commitment, along with the C40’s breakthrough leather-free interior, are the first steps toward redefining what a luxury vehicle will look like on the inside.

Better safety (yes, it’s possible)

Volvo Cars is raising the bar one notch higher come 2022 with the integration of advanced driving dynamics. New to 2022 models, particularly the XC90 Recharge, will come the highest safety standards ever seen before. Professionally known as LiDAR technology and autonomous driving tech, these technologies actively assist your vehicle in making safe driving decisions. Think less accidents, fewer fatalities, and better focus all around thanks to this computer-like programing built into each vehicle.

Putting the pressure on government officials

Volvo’s chief executive, Hakan Samuelsson, took the COP26 conference by storm in 2021. He urged fellow government officials to implement stricter guidelines in regard to the termination of fossil fuel sales. Samuelsson boldly stated, “We need governments to set clear end dates for the sale of fossil fuel vehicles.” Thereby suggesting that in order for fully electric goals to be met, automakers would need the backing of government ordinances. In some countries, specifically Norway and China, the rise of electric mobility has been mostly attributed to government incentives in place.

Final thoughts on the Volvo C40 Recharge

2021 gave us a full glimpse into Volvo’s ambitious goals ahead, which include climate neutral manufacturing and a complete switch to electric production. After all, the only way to lessen the impact of gas emissions is to get on board in this direction. For Volvo, the plan is set in full motion. Samuelsson’s proclamations at the Glasgow climate summit further echoed the obstacles that all modern automakers face. How do you get to fully electric future? Electric vehicles like the Volvo C40 Recharge are a good start.

What do you think of Volvo’s year in review and the new C40? Share your thoughts below.