The all-electric Volvo XC40 Recharge is headed to India in 2021, the Swedish carmaker confirmed. The SUV, which is Volvo’s first all-electric model, will join the manufacturer’s India lineup following the introduction of the new-gen S60 sedan.

• The electric SUV will be launched in 2021, after the new S60 sedan
• Features a twin-motor setup for a combined 408hp output
• Can charge up to 80 percent in 40 minutes using a 150kW DC fastcharger

Speaking about the XC40 Recharge in a #LivewithAutocar session on Instagram, Charles Frump, managing director, Volvo Car India, said, “We’re looking at some time next year, at bringing that product (XC40 Recharge) to India, and we’re extremely excited about it. So next year, early, we’ll have S60 and then we’ll have the full batteryelectric vehicle [BEV] XC40”.

 

What’s powering the XC40 Recharge?

The Volvo XC40 Recharge features two 204hp electric motors, one mounted on each axle, that provide a combined output of 408hp and 660Nm of torque. This enables it to achieve 0-100kph in 4.9sec, with a limited top speed of 180kph.

 

Power is drawn from a 78kWh battery that’s placed under the floor, with Volvo citing a WLTP-certified range of more than 400km. Charging is available through an 11kW AC charger or a 150kW DC fast-charger, which the firm says can deliver an 80 percent charge in 40min.

What’s different from the normal XC40?

In terms of styling, the XC40 Recharge remains largely similar to the conventional XC40 save for a few tweaks. The Recharge features a new sealed fascia in place of the traditional front grille and it also gets ‘Recharge’ badging. The charging port meanwhile, is located at the rear of the car, in the same place as a traditional fuel cap.

 

The XC40 Recharge features a new infotainment system powered by Google’s Android operating system – a Volvo first. This system features Volvo On Call – the firm’s connected-car tech and is also capable of over-the-air updates.

 

Volvo XC40 Recharge pricing and rivals

Volvo is expected to price the XC40 Recharge competitively in India.“We will be able to have a very good offer on the XC 40 EV for the customers, compared to the petrol version. Of course it’ll be more expensive, but I think the gap between the petrol and the BEV will be much less”, Frump said.

In terms of rivals, the Volvo XC40 will compete with the upcoming, all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQA SUV internationally.