Updated: Volvo improves range and efficiency of C40 and electric XC40

Volvo has overhauled the electric powertrains fitted to its C40 and XC40 Recharge models, boosting the range and efficiency of the cars.

The new models have now been homologated and achieved a range increase of up to 64 miles, according to WLTP.

Twin motor versions of the XC40 and C40 are fitted with a new, larger battery. Capacity has increased from 78kWh to 82kWh. The C40 Recharge Twin now has a range of 342 miles (up from 278) and the XC40 Recharge Twin has a range of 334 miles (up from 270).

A pair of new electric motors have also been introduced to twin motor cars. In the new configuration, a more powerful 245PS unit is fitted to the rear axle while a lower-powered 163PS motor is fitted at the front. The total power output of 408PS is retained.

The changes improve efficiency, with both the C40 Twin and XC40 Twin now capable of achieving up to 3.5mi/kWh.

Charging speeds have been increased, too. Twin motor cars can now take on power at 200kW (up from 150kW), cutting the 10-80% battery charging time by 10 minutes to 27 minutes.

The single motor variants retain the same 69kWh battery as before, but are fitted with a new motor. It has moved from the front axle to the rear and produces 238PS – up from 231PS.

Volvo says the C40 Recharge will now achieve up to 3.7mi/kWh, with a maximum range of 297 miles (up from 272). The XC40 Recharge should also manage 3.7mi/kWh and be able to cover 290 miles between charges.

Charging speeds for the single motor variants remains at 150kW, with a 10%-80% charge time of 27 minutes.

The changes apply to cars ordered from December 1, 2022, with production set to start in May 2023 for twin motor cars and autumn 2023 for single motor models.

Prices start at £46,450 (P11d), for the XC40 Recharge Core. The C40 range new starts at £48,300.

Volvo has also introduced a new, faster on-board charger for its 60 and 90 Series models with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The 6.4kW device cuts charging times almost in half.