Volvo’s first all-electric model for India, the XC40 Recharge made its India debut over a year ago, and was expected to go on sale in October 2021. However, the launch of the electric SUV was delayed, as Volvo decided to import the car as a CKD (completely knocked down) unit, instead of a CBU (completely built up) unit. Now, Volvo has finally announced that the XC40 Recharge is ready to hit our markets, and has confirmed that it will be launched on July 26, 2022. Additionally, Volvo India also said that it will be hosting the launch event through its version of the metaverse, which it is calling as the VolvoVerse.
At the heart of the Volvo XC40 Recharge is an electric motor drivetrain that develops a combined output, from both the axles, of 405 bhp and 660 Nm of peak torque, transferring power to all wheels via a single-speed transmission, which is good enough to accelerate to 100 kmph from a standstill in 4.9 seconds. The EV is also equipped with a 79 kWh battery, which translates to a range of around 400 km.
Last year, Volvo introduced the Volvo XC60, Volvo S90, and Volvo XC90 petrol with a 48V mild-hybrid system in support of their transition to an all-petrol portfolio and phased out all diesel models. The Volvo XC40, Volvo XC60, Volvo S60, and Volvo S90 were among the bestselling models sold by Volvo Car India. The company started the local assembly in India in 2017. At present, the flagship XC90, XC60, XC40, and the S90 are being locally assembled at the Bangalore plant, with the new Volvo XC40 Recharge being the latest to join. Being locally assembled will also help the electric SUV to be priced competitively against its rivals, the Kia EV6, and the soon to be launched Hyundai IONIQ 5.