Volvo Renames EV, PHEV Models to Avoid Confusion
As the lineup keeps transforming and moving closer to becoming all-electric by 2030, Volvo today announced name changes to some of its models.
The XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, the Swedish automaker’s first two electric vehicles, are renamed EX40 and EC40, respectively. That makes perfect sense considering the new models that will join them later this year including the 2024 EX90 three-row SUV and 2025 EX30 subcompact crossover, not to mention the EM90 minivan to be sold in select markets.
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Just to be clear, the conventionally powered XC40 with mild hybrid technology will retain its name,
Meanwhile, Volvo’s plug-in hybrid models lose their “Recharge” badging and are now denoted simply by the “T6” or “T8” suffix indicating their output level.
The new and streamlined model name standard will make it easier for shoppers and even existing Volvo customers to understand which models are fully electric and which ones are hybrids. Let’s face it, the current nomenclature is a bit confusing.
New Performance Software Pack
Speaking of the Volvo EX40 and EC40, today’s announcement also includes a new Performance software pack that increases output by 25 kW (33 hp) for faster acceleration, revises pedal mapping for quicker throttle response and adds a unique ‘Performance’ drive mode to unlock the full 325 kW (436 hp).
The Car Guide contacted Volvo Canada to find out whether the Performance software pack will be available here, but the company had nothing to say about the 2025 models yet. Same thing when it comes to the new Black Edition giving the EX40, EC40 and XC40 a darker appearance inside and out.
One last thing: the gas-powered XC60 and XC90 with mild hybrid technology now employ a more efficient engine combustion cycle, expected to result in CO2 emission reductions and fuel economy improvements of up to around 4 percent for the XC60 and around 2 percent for the XC90, based on the WLTP cycle.