Volvo Renames EV Models, Relaunches XC40 C40 As New EX40, EC40

Feb 20, 2024 08:09 PM EST

VOLVO XC40 ON PAVING STREET — (Photo : PEXELS/Vitali Adutskevich)

Volvo is implementing significant changes to the XC40 and C40 Recharge models. They will be dubbed EX40 and EC40, respectively. The XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge marked Volvo's entry into mass-produced battery-powered automobiles.

Volvo Rebranding XC40, C40 to EX40,EC4

The latest introduction of new models such as the EX30, EX90, and EM90 presents Volvo's vision for its electric lineup. Volvo aims to streamline its offers by connecting its existing electric vehicles with upcoming electric-only versions. This rebranding will make the XC40 Recharge transforming into the EX40 and the C40 Recharge assuming the name EC40, effective from 2025.

The revised nomenclature serves to clearly distinguish the current electric Volvos from their gasoline-powered counterparts. Notably, the convention allows the gasoline-powered XC40 to retain its original name. The realignment ensures coherence with the impending introduction of the anticipated EX30 and EX90 models, set to debut in the first half of the upcoming year.

As per EVs InsideEVs Global, Volvo is simplifying its electric vehicle lineup by rebranding its initial EV offerings. Going forward, the XC40 Recharge EV will be referred to as the EX40, and its coupe-shaped counterpart, the C40 Recharge EV, will be known as the EC40.This rebranding simplifies name conventions and improve customer understanding of its all-electric portfolio.

Upgrades that Come with Rebranding

Volvo is not only modifying the nomenclature of its electric models but also introducing an enhanced Performance software pack for the Twin Motor variants of the EX40 and EC40. This software upgrade elevates the power output by 25 kilowatts (33 hp), resulting in an impressive total of 325 kW (4365 hp). Moreover, the update encompasses revised pedal mapping to deliver swifter acceleration response and introduces a dedicated "Performance" drive mode.

Customers can conveniently acquire this upgrade via the Volvo Cars smartphone app and seamlessly apply it through an over-the-air software update, eliminating the need for a visit to a service center.

Black Edition

Furthermore, the Swedish automaker is unveiling the exclusive Black Edition of the EX40, EC40, and XC40 models. These special editions boast striking features such as Onyx Black paint, high gloss black badging, 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels finished in high gloss black, and the option of microtech or textile charcoal interiors.

As per Car and Driver's report, apart from rebranding the electric models, Volvo is also eliminating the "Recharge" badging from its plug-in hybrid models. The PHEV powertrain, currently offered in the U.S. across the XC90, XC60, S90, S60, and V60 models, will now be identified solely by the T6 or T8 suffix to indicate the powertrain.

Autoweek reported that with the rebranding of the XC40 Recharge EV to the EX40 and the C40 Recharge EV to the EC40, Volvo aims to provide customers with clearer insights into the identities of these models, ultimately reducing any potential confusion regarding their powertrains. The upgrade, available in limited markets for the fully electric XC40 and C40 Recharge models, increases the power output by an additional 25 kW, or 34 hp, without specifying the associated cost. While Volvo has not specified the exact timing of these name changes, it is likely that they will be implemented in the near future.