Affordable single-motor XC40 EV joins the range

VOLVO Car Australia is getting in early, announcing updates to its XC40 Recharge Pure Electric range well ahead of the MY23 variants’ arrival in the third quarter of this year. 

It says the introduction of a single-motor variant of the popular EV will help meet “surging demand” and that the front-wheel drive XC40 Recharge Pure Electric would balance power, performance, and efficiency.

The twin-motor XC40 Recharge Pure Electric – which was introduced locally in August this year – will be upgraded with a modest facelift for 2023 but will increase in price by $3000.

The revised range scores a new front fascia with remoulded bumper, frameless grille plate and new headlight bezels, as well as a restyled rear bumper. Pixel LED headlight technology, sustainable upholstery and a new alloy wheel design is featured on twin-motor variants.

Features for the new single-motor XC40 Recharge Pure Electric include 19-inch five double-spoke design alloy wheels in a Black Diamond-cut finish; ‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED headlight design; park assist camera; panoramic sunroof; heated front and rear seats; a heated steering wheel; keyless entry; Google digital services and connectivity; and an exclusive paint palette.

Volvo Car Australia managing director, Stephen Connor, says the option of an entry-grade XC40 Recharge Pure Electric will better allow Volvo to maintain supply of its electric SUV into the Australian market, assuming supply can be maintained.

“Demand for XC40 Recharge Pure Electric is unprecedented as Australians embrace electric cars in increasing numbers. Our forward order book has never been stronger,” said Mr Connor. 

“The introduction of the single-motor variant in 2022 will enable us to respond to this extraordinary demand with even a more affordable Pure Electric option. Via this introduction we have delivered a fantastic offering without compromising on our core values and safety. 

“We have secured a minimum of 20 per cent production growth for 2022 and we will continue to push for even more production to meet the demand of the brand. If our factories can keep up, then our volumes will hit 15,000 units in the near future,” Mr Connor added. 

Priced from $72,990 plus on-road costs, the single-motor XC40 Recharge Pure Electric undercuts the twin-motor model by $7000. It produces 170kW/330Nm and is powered by a Standard Range (69kW/h) battery pack for an expected driving range of 380km. 

Volvo says the variant can accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in 7.4 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 180km/h.

Twin-motor variants – now priced from $79,990 plus on-road costs – offer an output of 150kW at each axle to form a total system output of 300kW/600Nm. A larger 78kW/h battery pack offers a driving range of up to 418km while the 0-100km/h dash is dismissed in just 4.9 seconds.

Both variants are offered with 150kW DC fast-charging capabilities and are backed by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty.

2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.