All-electric Volvo C40 Recharge coming to South Africa – Everything we know

Volvo South Africa has confirmed that the all-electric C40 Recharge, which was unveiled all the way back in March 2021, will go on sale in the country in the first half of 2023.

The Swedish firm also revealed that the recently-unveiled EX90 flagship is on its way to local showrooms, too, though it didn’t confirm when this particular SUV is going on sale.

Everything we know about the C40

The C40 is the first model in Volvo’s history to be built as an electric vehicle (EV) from the get-go.

It stands on the same battery-powered architecture as its sibling, the XC40, boasting a coupe-shaped body and for the first time on a Volvo, a completely leather-free interior.

At launch, the C40 will be offered with a twin-motor configuration with identical power to the XC40 P8 Recharge.

The two electric motors put together generate a total system output of 300kW and 660Nm, enough to send the crossover to 100km/h from a standstill in 4.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 180km/h.

Powered by a 78kWh battery module, a 451km maximum driving range is on the cards, and charging from 0-80% is handled in about 40 minutes on a fast-charging plug.

Inside, the C40 Recharge provides its driver with a “high seating position” and it also features Volvo’s Android-powered touchscreen infotainment system with built-in Google apps and services.

Furthermore, the battery-electric crossover received a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP earlier in 2022.

The compact Volvo then stands 1,582mm high, 2,035mm wide, and 4,431mm long, making it slightly longer and flatter than its blockier brother. It also gets model-distinctive 19 and 20-inch alloy wheels in a five-spoke design on the front and rear, respectively.

The South African pricing and complete specifications for the C40 Recharge must still be revealed, with these to be announced closer to the launch date in the first half of 2023, said Volvo.

Volvo C40 Recharge