With the 2024 model year, the Volvo EC40 not only received a new name, but also received its first facelift. The 100% electric coupe has been particularly strengthened on a technical level. Customers now have the choice between several engine options and different battery packs. Particularly interesting: the Single Motor with rear-wheel drive.
We have to admit that the new Volvo EX30 has been monopolizing a lot of attention lately. It is therefore high time to once again shine the spotlight on the Volvo EC40 (formerly Volvo C40 Recharge). Because the SUV coupe not only benefited from a new name and a facelift during the 2024 model year, but also new engine variants.
Single Motor on the rear axle
The basis is the new in-house developed permanent magnet synchronous motor. However, it no longer drives the front wheels, but is placed on the rear axle for better traction. In this version, the 175 kW/238 hp Single Motor propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and allows it to reach a top speed of 180 km/h. The maximum range is 550 kilometers. The Single Motor is also available in an Extended Range version with a larger 82 kWh battery. The electric motor then produces 185 kW/252 hp of power and 420 Nm of torque.
ADAC test
How does the Volvo EC40 behave in everyday life? ADAC tested the Volvo EC40 with Extended Range and delivered the following verdict: “The ADAC Ecotest placed the Swede relatively close to the value prescribed in the standard. Considering the average consumption of 18.9 kWh/100 km, the distance of 500 kilometers covered with one recharge represents a good figure. In addition to the slightly larger battery, it is above all the reduced consumption which contributes to this marked improvement in autonomy.”
The all-wheel drive variant
The all-wheel drive variant is particularly popular in Switzerland: it also benefits from new engines and an increase in autonomy. At the front, it has a strong 110 kW/150 hp asynchronous electric motor and, at the rear, a 190 kW/258 hp permanent magnet electric motor. In combination with the 82 kWh battery, the WLTP range increases to 541 kilometers.