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Volvo Cars is introducing significant upgrades to its fully electric and hybrid vehicles and unveiling a new naming convention to enhance customer understanding and transparency. This strategic shift aligns with Volvo’s ambition to transition into a fully electric car manufacturer by 2030, showcasing a firm commitment to sustainability and innovation.
In a significant move, the fully electric XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge models have been rebranded as EX40 and EC40, respectively. This change integrates these models more cohesively into Volvo’s electric family, including the EX30, EX90, and EM90. The traditional XC40 name will continue to represent the internal combustion engine variants, underscoring Volvo’s gradual pivot away from fossil fuels.
2023 marked a pivotal year for Volvo, with fully electric cars constituting 16% of its global sales—a 70% increase from the previous year. The introduction of the EX30, EX90, and EM90 models this year expands Volvo’s electric portfolio to five, indicating a robust pipeline of electric innovations on the horizon.
Additionally, Volvo has streamlined its plug-in hybrid models by removing the ‘Recharge’ designation, now identifying them through the T6 or T8 suffixes. This simplification aims to clarify the differentiation between fully electric and hybrid options for consumers.
Björn Annwall, Volvo’s Chief Commercial Officer and Deputy CEO, emphasized, “By aligning our trailblazing first electric models with the rest of our electric car portfolio, we simplify choice for consumers as we continue to electrify our line-up and refresh our hybrids.”
A new Performance software pack has also been introduced for the EX40 and EC40 Twin Motor variants, enhancing power output and acceleration. This upgrade, available for selected markets and previous model year vehicles, exemplifies Volvo’s commitment to performance alongside sustainability.
Hybrid models haven’t been left behind, with the B5 mild hybrid petrol variants of the XC60 and XC90 undergoing enhancements for improved fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions. Moreover, the introduction of the special Black Edition for the EX40, EC40, and XC40 models, featuring exclusive design elements, adds a touch of sophistication to Volvo’s diverse range.
With these updates, Volvo Cars not only simplifies its product range for customers but also reinforces its leadership in the electric vehicle market. The EC40 and EX40 models continue to impress with features like Google built-in and exceptional electric range, promising an exciting future for Volvo enthusiasts and the automotive industry at large.
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