Volvo unveils the C40, an electric coupe-shaped SUV

It was a big night for everyone’s favourite Swedish car manufacturer, Volvo. It confirmed what many suspected, that it would be going fully electric by 2030. And on top of this, it also unveiled a brand new electric car offering in the form of the C40.

The model can be looked at somewhat as a coupe version of Volvo’s existing electric XC40 Recharge. It’s based on the same CMA platform and features a similar front and and interior space. But, it’s still worth noting that it’s the brand’s first dedicated electric nameplate.

The styling is among the most neatly proportioned among the growing coupe-shaped SUV class. Most premium brands have produced one or two in recent times, and they’ve proven themselves to be strong sellers. Given that most of them feature better aerodynamics than their traditionally shaped SUV counterparts, expect more of them to be produced in the EV era.

Under the skin is a twin-motor powertrain, producing 300kW of power and 660Nm of torque. This is paired to a 78kWh battery pack, which is claimed to be good enough for 420km of range on the WLTP cycle.

The C40 also comes with a selection of requisite toys and features that most expect from a premium electric car these days. It comes with over-the-air update capabilities, fast charging that can see it hit 80 per cent battery power in just 40 minutes, and an Android-based infotainment interface that features Google apps and services.

The model has already been confirmed for the New Zealand market, with arrival scheduled for the second half of 2022. It will be sold alongside plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions of the XC40 — the former having just arrived in the country ahead of a nationwide tour.

“Based on the CMA vehicle platform, the C40 builds on the popularity of the XC40 and will be aimed at a younger demographic – providing them with all the benefits of an SUV but with a lower and sleeker design,” said Volvo New Zealand general manager Ben Montgomery.

“In line with our sustainability objectives, the C40 will be the first Volvo model to be completely leather-free.”

“The C40 Recharge represents the future of Volvo and shows where we are going,” said Henrik Green, chief technology officer. “It is fully electric, offered online only with a convenient care package and will be available for quick delivery. Getting a new Volvo was never this attractive.”