Having driven numerous EVs and performance cars, I recently had the pleasure of test-driving the Volvo C40 Recharge, and it left me thoroughly impressed. Priced at Rs 66 lakh (on-road, Delhi), this all-electric marvel from Volvo boasts insane acceleration, making it the quickest EV under one crore. It feels like an ultimate ballistic missile from Volvo.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Powered by dual motors, the C40 Recharge features an aggressive AWD drivetrain, delivering a staggering 402.41 bhp with a torque of 660Nm. The acceleration is remarkable, clocking 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds, earning it the title of the fastest EV under 1 crore.
Its high-speed stability, well-sorted handling, and mature ride quality set it apart. With incredible torque and a top speed of 180 kph(Capped), overtaking multiple vehicles in seconds is a cakewalk. It’s essential to note that at high speeds, the brakes require a bit more force than usual.
Volvo C40 Recharge: Battery and Range
Equipped with a 78 kWh battery, the claimed range of up to 530 km is impressive. During my winter test drives in Delhi, the C40 Recharge consistently delivered a range between 450-470 km. Even in hot weather with the AC on, it maintains a commendable 400+ km range.
Volvo C40 Recharge : Safety & Features
Safety is a priority with features like ADAS, a highly accurate 360-degree camera, a 5-star NCAP rating, and level 3 ADAS for added security. The solid build and top-notch quality contribute to an overall sense of protection.
The C40 Recharge is Loaded with features like panoramic pixel technology headlamps, electric front seats, one-pedal driving, and a 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, the C40 Recharge offers a luxurious driving experience. However, some features like ventilated seats and adjustable regenerative braking are notably absent.
Volvo C40 Recharge: Rear Seat Comfort:
Rear seat comfort is average, with a raised floor and an upright seatback. Best suited for two passengers, ingress/egress can be a bit tricky due to the sloping roofline. However, for two passengers, the rear seat space is adequate and can comfortably accommodate trips of 3-4 hours.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Volvo C40 Recharge is a standout in the electric vehicle market, balancing performance, range, and safety features. Not only this, but the Volvo XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge accounted for 28% of the total sales in Volvo’s sales for 2023. While it competes with rivals like BMW iX1, Kia EV6, and BMW i4, its closest competitor, the Kia EV6 AWD, costs almost 2 lakhs more.