Volvo’s fully electric vehicle (EV), the C40 Recharge, has arrived in South Africa and we can confidently say that it is one of the best we’ve seen so far. Would we expect anything less from Volvo, though? Let’s delve straight into what makes this car so special.
If you’re already a fan of the brand’s XC40, then this EV will certainly appeal to you. Just look at it! It’s like a sportier version of its internal combustion engine sibling with its sloping roofline and curvier rear end.
The Design
The signature Fjord Blue hue is inspired by the deep inlets on the Scandinavian west coast and it flows right into the cabin with carpets of the same colour – made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles, mind you.
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Speaking of which, the C40 Recharge is the first Volvo to be completely leather-free, instead offering a range of sustainable upholsteries such as renewable wool fibres or a combination of suede textile made from recycled plastics and a special micro-tech material.
Overall, the cabin has a very calming effect with an anti-glare panoramic glass roof enhancing the spaciousness of the interior. In terms of interior styling, a standout has to be the translucent pattern on the door panels that is based on a topographical map of the Abisko National park in Sweden. It is backlit and makes for quite the talking point.
This trim level, the highest available, is jam-packed with features such as a Harman Kardon audio system, heated seats and steering wheel, and an electrically powered tailgate. The nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system is powered by Google so you have access to Google Assistant and all Google apps. You use it as you would your phone. It makes life seamless!
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And, as we have come to expect from Volvo, there is a host of safety systems on hand. There is City Safety with rear cross-traffic alert, Pilot Assist, a lane-tracking aid, oncoming lane mitigation, a blind-spot information system, and seven airbags.
Smooth Operator
So, what’s powering this smooth operator? It sports two electric motors, one on each axle, equipped with a 78 kWh battery. It boasts impressive performance numbers of 300 kW and 660 Nm. And you can feel it. Put pedal to the metal and you are thrown back in your seat with the torque so readily available. Overtaking is a breeze. And if it is range anxiety you suffer from, never fear, because the C40 Recharge has a range of 444 km. And the all-wheel drive system will ensure you are even safer on the wet!
Something worth noting is that there is no start button! You merely get into the car and select Drive or Reverse and the car starts to move. This will certainly take some getting used to.
Overall, this car offers customers a stylish, comfortable, refined and elegant step into the world of EVs. It might be a touch impractical for some, in terms of space, but that will be determined by what your needs are. If I were in the market for an EV, this would certainly go straight to the top of my list.
PRICED FROM: R1 285 000
Juliet McGuire
Juliet McGuire is South Africa’s leading female motoring journalist. She’s been a motoring journalist for the past 14 years and she is here to help you make an informed decision when buying a car.
