New entry-level EV could bolster Volvo XC40 sales as AWD sells out.
Volvo is evolving its line-up as shortages put a squeeze on models such as the new XC40 electric.
Looking to add more XC40 Recharge units to local supply, Volvo Australia might follow in the footsteps of the UK which is introducing the XC40 Recharge Plus and XC40 Recharge Pro single-motor, front-wheel-drive versions next year, following the sell-out success of the AWD model.
The new electric XC40s use a powertrain familiar from the entry-level version of the Polestar 2, with a 170kW motor on the front axle, which is good for a 0-100km/h time of 7.4sec and a top speed of 160km/h. Available exclusively with a 69kWh battery, they offer between 414km and 422km of range, depending on specification.
Meanwhile, Volvo has discontinued the performance-oriented Polestar Engineered versions of the S60 sedan, V60 wagon and XC60 SUV in the UK, and as we understand this helps Volvo put more distance between its own cars and the EVs made by its sister brand Polestar, which was previously an in-house performance division.
The updated Volvo XC40 will arrive in Australia next year with details to come. The all-new C40 Recharge is also hoped to arrive in 2022, but might fall into 2023 – you can read our first-drive review of the C40 Recharge here.
Felix Page