To understand the value of Volvo cars, you need to grow up to them mentally. Some people reach this point at the age of 30, while others do not reach it until they are 50. You don’t buy Volvo on emotion, you don’t buy it because you can, you choose it with a calm mind and clear awareness. But this electric Volvo C40 evokes different feelings and can surprise even longtime fans of the brand.
It’s hard to live in minimalism without understanding what exactly is at its core, and the same is true with the choice of cars from the Swedish brand. And the bottom line is that everything is hidden, everything is calculated, and everything is purely practical. At first glance — it seems unintriguing, too simple, and calm, but in fact, everything is thought out and enriched with history, technology, and innovation. Not a single extra detail, extra movement, extra thought while driving. Every element was created with safety in mind — for you and the environment.
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While we have been familiar with the design of the Swedes for a long time and little has changed over the years, the company has chosen the direction of technology development decisively, and now we are already seeing the results. Five years ago, the company embarked on the path of sustainable development, gradually shifting production to more environmentally friendly materials. And today, the level of recycled materials used in processing is already more than 50%. Recently, the company has completely abandoned diesel units. Every year there are more electric models and fewer gasoline models. So the future of Volvo is already clear.
This is how the Volvo C40 Recharge appeared in 2021, two years later than the electric XC40. And the philosophy of the novelty is completely different, despite the fact that «interior» is completely identical. Our C40 does not have, and will not have, gasoline engines — it is exclusively an electric car, unlike the XC40.
Both models are built on the Volvo CMA platform and equipped with an 82 kWh battery. However, the coupe-like C40 is more environmentally friendly, with a longer range (569 km vs. 582 km) and lower energy consumption (17.6 kWh/100 km). Both can consume 175 kW of direct current power (CCS2) and replenish the range from 10% to 80% in 28 minutes.
We are now comparing rear-wheel drive versions because the offer will also include all-wheel drive variants with an electric motor on each axle, and then the power will increase from 252 hp to 408 hp.
The C40 was designed with the environment, economy, and practicality in mind. Therefore, the silhouette in the style of «fastback» with a raised stern and a different front bumper improved aerodynamics, thereby providing more advantages in technical data and more sportiness in appearance. And while the Fjord Blue color of the test car makes it look modern and calm, the Onyx Black on 20-inch wheels turns the compact into a stylish and aggressive crossover. And even in this form, it can outperform the BMW iX2, especially since it wins by default in terms of technical characteristics, as well as in cost.
The headlamp design is based on the familiar «Thor’s Hammer» design, but now the C40 is the first in the Volvo lineup to receive headlamps with pixel technology that optimizes visibility. That is, in automatic mode, each Pixel LED headlamp unit, which has 84 LEDs, can simultaneously dim up to 5 cars detected by the camera. This helps to avoid blinding oncoming drivers or pedestrians. It’s a cool technology that allows the driver to forget about adjusting the light and entrust everything to the car.
Here, you trust a lot to the car by default. Bringing active and passive safety technologies to perfection has made it possible to almost eliminate manual settings. In general, it is difficult to feel irritated by the work of the assistants while driving a Volvo. It will not pull you, snatch the steering wheel or behave unpredictably.
The operation of the branded Pilot Assist is almost imperceptible, soft and reliable. When you activate adaptive cruise, you let the car assistants take over. Volvo will keep you in your lane as gently as a baby’s cradle by tracking lane direction. It keeps a close eye on the cars in front of you, keeping a distance. The system is capable of stopping and starting the car on its own, making it indispensable when driving in traffic, not to mention long distances.
I was unable to test the level of operation of the emergency braking system. Perhaps it turns on really at a critical moment, like the pedestrian detection system. So once again, C40 will not bother you with warnings, but remember that it is constantly watching.
The dashboard constantly informs you of speed limits, and there is a route map so you don’t have to look at the central monitor. In general, there is enough information about driving speed, recuperation, energy consumption, power reserve, and so on. You can also see or display the distance on the on-board computer, but it is activated separately on the steering wheel.
The number of safety systems, including airbags, is simply off the charts: whiplash protection system, side impact protection system, airbags with two degrees of deployment, knee airbag, driver’s side airbag and others.
Of course, the C40 has cameras and radars that help «brain» car to monitor the surrounding situation. You have the option of looking at the interactive image on the center display with a 360-degree view, which shows the situation in great detail. But in the rain, the image will be blurry and not as clear as you would like. Once again, you have to rely on the car itself to warn you if there is an obstacle behind you and even stop.
It always seems that driving a Volvo is not interesting or fun. I have to disappoint those who still think that. Instant acceleration is enough to push you and your passengers into the seats and make you nauseous because the torque is available right from the start. And there is enough power reserve to allow you to play around, but within reason. But remember that there is no permissiveness in Volvo’s philosophy, violations are unnecessary, haste is rejected, and behavior on the road must be in line with brand values and safety. That’s why you won’t find drivers in Volvo who are impudent or disrespectful. This is exactly the kind of consciousness that needs to be developed.
Driving a Swedish electric car is simply beyond reproach. Lightness, understanding, comfort. The multi-link suspension on both axles takes care of everyone in the cabin. Even on 20-inch wheels with low-profile tires, you don’t feel any shaking or minor road imperfections, and the shock absorbers respond elastically and quickly. The steering wheel transmits enough information from the road and has few revolutions. There may be a lack of sharp steering response, but with an electric car, such sensations are unnecessary, the main thing here is to roll as long as possible, not to demonstrate maneuverability.
The claimed range of 582 km in the combined cycle (and 783 km in the city cycle) is more of a wish. As we know, the reality is quite different. So the crossover will easily be able to cover 450 km, with the climate turned off and careful driving around the city using recuperation, if the road allows, you can increase the distance to 480 km.
Charging an 82 kWh battery is not so simple. As I mentioned above, an electric vehicle can consume up to 175 kW of power from direct current via the CCS port, but the charging station must be appropriate. So far, I know of only one station that is capable of delivering a record 360 kW — this is a charger from GO TO-U, which is located in Rivne. It is capable of powering two electric vehicles at the same time and delivering 180 kW. Perhaps they will have more similar stations, but for now, you will mostly have to use what is offered on the roads, which is up to 100-150 kW. The waiting time will be up to 40–60 minutes.
If you charge from a three-phase 32A outlet via Type2, you can easily replenish the range up to a maximum of 8 hours, which is enough for one working day. Of course, if the AC power is lower, the time will be added. Of course, you can also charge an electric car from a home outlet, but it’s scary to imagine how long it will take.
The electric car has gained some advantages not only in driving, but also in the cabin. In the case of the Volvo C40, there are almost no differences with the interiors of other Volvos, except for the use of the maximum amount of recycled materials. According to the manufacturer, this is the first model where no leather was used at all. In fact, there is leatherette everywhere, which is made from recycled materials and used in combination with Charcoal textile suede/Microtech upholstery. On the floor — The wool-like upholstery that wraps most of the cabin is Fjord Blue.
The stylists have done a good job with the quality of the materials, and it’s hard to distinguish them from natural ones, although you can find recycled plastic or denim here. But this is a separate topic that should be discussed another time.
The interior configuration has not changed at all for many years. The familiar 9-inch display on the center console offers control of the air conditioning system, music, and all settings. There are several profiles that allow different drivers to use the electric car comfortably, changing the settings with almost one touch.
The illuminated Topography inserts (actually a topographic map of Sweden — ed.) create a special atmosphere in the evening. Of course, this is not a starry sky like in the BMW iX, but it looks no less stylish.
New to the Volvo C40 is a fixed panoramic window with tinted glass. This, of course, visually increases the space and adds light. According to the manufacturer, there is no need for a curtain, and the absence of a sunroof reduces unnecessary noise. Unfortunately, the charging inputs are Type C only, which will require many people to change cables if they need to charge their devices. And the manufacturer does not indulge in such charging inputs: there is one input in front and one — behind. Among the pleasant little things: a small bin in the armrest that can be conveniently removed, a new gear lever in the form of a loop, LED lighting, convenient cupholders, and large pockets for the door cards.
We have the Ultimate trim with maximum equipment, including electric front seat adjustments, a 360 camera, and more. The difference with the Plus package is small in terms of equipment, but it will cost about 200 thousand hryvnias.
There is wireless charging for the phone and wired Apple CarPlay. The main connections are given to the Google system, which is built on the Android operating system. You need to insert a SIM card with Internet, connect your profile and have access to all Google applications and services, such as Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store, among others. So maps with traffic jams will already be in the system by default, as well as your favorite music.
The seats are ergonomically designed and well thought out, which is not even worth mentioning. There are more than enough adjustments for the front passengers. There is even a retractable footrest for those who need to sit deeper. The only thing missing is a massage, but you don’t often find such a nice feature in this class. It is good that there are heated seats and steering wheel, which can be very useful in an electric car.
The sound system and the premium Harman Kardon stereo system are also very pleasing. It is in the Volvo cabin that you should listen to classical music. And combined with the excellent noise insulation and quiet running of the electric vehicle — it’s a special pleasure.
At first glance, there seems to be enough space for rear passengers, but a tall person will feel some discomfort. The design feature of an electric car with a battery under the floor, a sloping roof, and high rear arches restrict movement and constrict the shoulders, not to mention the dangerous proximity of the head to the rear pillar. And the rear window will not go down all the way — another design feature of the car.
The design ate a little bit of luggage space, as I wrote above, but they left space under the trunk floor for small items, tools, and other necessary things. There is an additional 31-liter trunk in front, where it is convenient to store cables.
We must always remember that every brand has its own charm, and with Volvo, almost every element is filled with meaning. It’s impossible to express all the feelings that the Volvo C40 evokes: from the wonder of bold new ideas to the warmth of familiar details that echo the richness of its historical heritage.
This is one of the few electric cars that hasn’t caused me any irritation, charging issues, nerves about the range limit, or any anxiety. Everything is so clear, easy, and simple.
And yes, even a distance of 400 km will be enough to not forget about charging for a week. If you recharge the Volvo C40 during work or at home at night, it will turn out to be a completely problem-free car for every day. And I would boldly go on a long journey with it, just knowing that it has energy and capabilities in reserve.
It’s hard to compare the Volvo C40 to anyone because our market offers too many options in terms of price range and origin. We can say that the main competitor is the VW iD4, but it cannot be a worthy rival in terms of equipment, range, power, safety, and reliability. You can compare the C40 with the Tesla Model Y, but it does not have an official representative office and the perks that the importer provides for Volvo. Nevertheless, the Tesla Model Y is superior to the Swede in all respects, from acceleration, power to range, and road behavior.
At the same time, the Volvo C40 will clearly outperform more expensive rivals BMW iX1 and Mercedes-Benz EQA in the distance. Among the analogs in terms of quality of finish and level of satisfaction, I can name the Jaguar i-Pace, but their positioning is different.
So Volvo will remain unique and attentive to the consumer. And the brand has more and more chances to increase its audience. In addition to a battery warranty of up to 8 years, the importer has offered special conditions for Volvo in Ukraine: the Volvo Care Offer program includes 3 years of service in the price of the car. It is valid for up to 100 thousand kilometers or three years.
In addition, starting in 2023, Volvo will offer electric vehicles by subscription. That is, by paying a fixed payment per month, you get a car with all the default services: warranty, insurance, service, roadside assistance, etc. Standard terms include the ability to choose the period of using an electric car from 6 to 36 months. You can also replace the car with another Volvo or cancel your order by giving the dealer 3 months’ notice. Therefore, the C40 Recharge can be rented for a fixed monthly payment starting from UAH 57,704.
| Body, type | SUV |
| Dimensions (LxWxH), mm | 4440/1591/2034 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2 702 |
| Declared ground clearance, mm | 171 |
| Trunk volume, liters. | 404/1205 |
| Curb weight, kg | 2460 |
| Battery, kWh | 82 |
| Power, hp (kW) | 252/185 |
| Torque, Nm | 420 |
| Power reserve, km | 578 |
| Type of drive | back |
| Pendant | Macpherson/multi-lever |
| Transmission | single-stage automatic |
| Dynamics 0-100, s | 7,3 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 180 |
| Energy consumption, kWh/100 km | 17,6 |
| Cost, UAH | 1 742 241 |
| The cost of the test car, UAH | 1 968 523 |
| Competitors | VW iD4 |
| Tesla Model Y | |
| Jaguar I-Pace | |
| BMW iX2 | |
| Mercedes-Benz EQA |
