► Standardised names for electric models
► Makes range easier to understand
► Electric only brand by 2030
Some car manufacturers update their models so often that the naming system struggles to keep up. Volvo can be considered as among this group, as it’s only now setting the record straight with a new streamlined and standardised set of names for its electric vehicle (EV) range.
The fully electric XC40 and C40 Recharge models will be known as the EX40 and the EC40 respectively, as use of the E character becomes inextricably linked to Volvo’s electric cars.
Any internal combustion-powered versions of the XC40 and C40 will continue to use their original designation, while the Recharge brand is being removed altogether from plug-in hybrid models. These cars will be designated with a T6 or T8 suffix to reflect their power output only.
According to Volvo, the naming system has been standardised to make the model range easier to understand for new and existing customers, while reflecting the marque’s ambition to become an electric-only manufacturer by 2030.
‘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,’ Björn Annwall said, Chief Commercial Officer and Deputy CEO.
But the EX40 and the EC40 aren’t just receiving new names. Volvo is updating the two electric cars with a new Performance software package to up their power rating by 25kW and improve accelerator response times with new pedal mapping.
If you’d like to spec your electric family SUV with a touch of ominous doom, the EX40 and EC40 and XC40 are also now available in Black Edition trim, which dresses the car in an Onyx Black paint with black badging and a charcoal interior.