Volvo Updates Model Names, Improves Hybrid Emissions

Volvo Cars is rolling out upgrades and updates to its fully electric and hybrid vehicles.

The move is in line with the company's ongoing transformation toward becoming a fully electric car maker by 2030.

Streamlining the EV Lineup

The fully electric XC40 Recharge model is now renamed to EX40, and the C40 Recharge model is now named EC40. With the name changes, the vehicle seamlessly fit in with Volvo's other fully electric models: the EX30, EX90, and EM90.

The XC40 name remains for internal combustion-powered variants of the model.

The update also includes the removal of Recharge badging from Volvo's plug-in hybrid models, which are now denoted simply by the T6 or T8 suffix indicating different levels of power output.

The new and streamlined model name standard makes it easier for existing and new fleet customers to understand which models are fully electric and which are hybrids.

Volvo is also introducing a new Performance software pack for the EX40 and EC40 Twin Motor variants, and as an upgrade for the previous model year in selected markets.

The Performance software pack, which increases power output by 25kW for faster acceleration, also includes unique pedal mapping for quicker accelerator response and a ‘Performance’ drive mode to unlock the full 325kW.

Additionally, Volvo is introducing a special Black Edition of the following models:

• EX40
• EC40
• XC40

The announcement comes following the success of the automaker's XC60 Black Edition launched last year. The Black Edition models come with Onyx Black paint, high gloss black badging, 20-in. five-spoke alloys in high gloss black and the choice between microtech or textile charcoal interiors.

Improvements to the Hybrid Lineup to Curb Emissions

Volvo also announced improvements to its hybrid products.

B5 mild hybrid petrol variants of XC60 and XC90 now employ a more efficient engine combustion cycle, expected to result in CO2 emission reductions and fuel economy improvements of up to around 4% for the XC60 and around 2% for the XC90 based on the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) cycle.

“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.” Volvo CCO and Deputy CEO Björn Annwall said.

Pushing Toward an Electric Future

In 2023, fully electric cars represented 16% of Volvo's global sales volumes, an increase of 70% versus 2022, according to the automaker.

The EX30, EX90, and EM90 will all hit roads this year and bring the number of fully electric models in Volvo's product portfolio to five. Several more new models are coming down the pipeline.

In late 2023, Automotive Fleet reported that Volvo announced plans to end production to all of its diesel-powered car models by early 2024.