Volvo Renames its Electric and Hybrid Models to Streamline its Lineup

Volvo Cars is accelerating its journey towards becoming a fully electric car manufacturer by 2030, and as part of this transformation, the company is streamlining and standardizing the model names for its fully electric cars. The fully electric XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge models will now be known as the EX40 and EC40, aligning seamlessly with other electric models in the lineup such as the new EX30 and EX90. The XC40 name will continue to be used for the gasoline-powered versions of the smallest Volvo crossover.

This move is a clear reflection of Volvo's commitment to electric mobility, with fully electric cars accounting for 16 percent of global sales volumes in 2023, marking a substantial 70 percent increase from the previous year. With the launch of the EX30 and EX90 later this year, this proportion of global sales for electric vehicles will continue to increase.

In addition to the name changes, Volvo is introducing a Performance software pack for the EX40 and EC40 Twin Motor variants. This upgrade boosts power output by 34 horsepower, up to 436, and includes a different throttle mapping to provide more dynamic acceleration and a sportier feel. This upgrade will also be made available to owners of 2024 model-year XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge SUVs equipped with the Dual Motor powertrain through an over-the-air update.

Following the success of the XC60 Black Edition, Volvo will also launch a special Black Edition for the EX40, EC40, and XC40 models. These SUVs come with Onyx Black paint, high gloss black badging, 20-inch five-spoke alloys in high gloss black, and the choice between Microtech or textile charcoal interiors.

To simplify the distinction between fully electric and hybrid models, Volvo is removing the Recharge badging from plug-in hybrid models. Instead, these plug-in hybrid models will wear either the T6 or T8 names to indicate different power levels.

Of course, regular mild-hybrid powertrains will continue to be standard on most new Volvo models and they will still be denoted by the B5 or B6 badges. These models are also part of the company’s environmental protection plans since the B5 variant used in the XC60 and XC90 will now benefit from a cleaner combustion cycle that will help reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

With these updates, Volvo aims to provide a clear and streamlined product lineup, making it easier for consumers to distinguish between all of the different electrified powertrains available to them.