Volvo begins production on its second electric model

Recent announcement ensures manufacturing output will increase to 135,000 units per year

Following the launch of its award-winning compact SUV, the XC40 Recharge, Volvo has announced production has started on its second fully electric vehicle called the C40 Recharge. It will be built at its Ghent plant in Belgium, as the company strives towards all-out electrification and increasing output to 135,000 units per year.

Senior Vice President for Industrial Operations and Quality at Volvo Cars is Javier Varela, who responded to the news by saying: “The C40 Recharge is a car that represents our future. Our manufacturing operations and a close collaboration with our suppliers are key in achieving our future ambitions in terms of electrification and climate neutrality. Our Ghent plant is ready for an all-electric future and will be an important part of our global industrial network for the years to come.”

The C40 Recharge is equipped with two electric motors – one on the front and another on the rear axle – and both are powered by a 78kWh battery that can be rapid-charged from 10-80% in just 40 minutes. The range is anticipated to be around 261 miles.

Another key benefit is the infotainment system that Volvo reckon is one of the best on the market. It’s jointly developed with Google and based on the Android system to provide Google apps, Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play.

First deliveries into the UK are expected in the early part of 2022, when customers will also be able to book a test drive at Volvo dealerships.