Volvo Cars is simplifying and standardizing the names of its electric vehicle models, introducing the abbreviations EX for SUVs and EC for SUV coupés. This change will impact two of Volvo’s current models.
The XC40 Recharge Pure Electric will be known as the EX40, while the C40 Recharge Pure Electric will be renamed the Volvo EC40 starting from the 2025 model year. The new naming convention has already been applied to the upcoming top model EX90 and the new entry-level Volvo EX30 in a new model series. The two existing models mentioned above, which are based on the CMA mixed platform, will now follow suit.
See also: Volvo’s All-Electric Minivan EM90 Officially Begins Production, Marking Entry into EV Market
In addition to the renaming, the ‘Recharge’ suffix, previously used for both purely electric models and those with plug-in hybrid drive, will be dropped. Plug-in hybrids will now be identified by the suffix T6 or T8, denoting the performance level of the engine combination.
The Volvo XC40 will retain its name for the conventionally powered compact SUV with a combustion engine, at least for the time being. Volvo Cars aims to become a fully electric car manufacturer by 2030. Sales of all-electric models increased by 70% last year compared to 2022, accounting for 16% of total global sales.
Volvo’s first electric van, to be launched only in China, will be marketed as the EM90. While this vehicle is essentially a Volvo version of the Zeekr 009, it is unclear from the press release what Volvo intends to call potential electric saloons or estates. Based on current designations such as ‘S’ for sedans and ‘V’ for estate cars, ‘ES’ and ‘EV’ are conceivable but not confirmed.
See also: Volvo Plans Updates for Mild-Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Models Amid Electrification Goals
Björn Annwall, Chief Commercial Officer and Deputy CEO at Volvo Cars, stated, “By aligning our trailblazing first electric models with the rest of our electric car portfolio, we simplify choice for consumers as we continue to electrify our line-up and refresh our hybrids.”
For the recently renamed EX40 and EC40 models in the all-wheel-drive variant with two motors (still referred to as “Twin Motor”), there is also a performance software package available. This package offers a power increase from 25 to 325 kW and includes a “performance driving mode” with unique pedal mapping for quicker accelerator response and a “Performance” drive mode to unlock the full 325kW.
