2022 Volvo C40 Recharge
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 Published On Premiered Jun 10, 2021

The Volvo C40 Recharge design story: combining the serenity of Scandinavian nature with the confidence of electric ambition.

In many ways, the Volvo C40 Recharge represents the future of Volvo Cars: it is the first Volvo model in history designed as pure electric only, and will be offered online with a convenient Care offer. Its SUV elements and benefits combined with a lower profile means that Volvo Cars also enters a new segment – and it does so with cutting-edge design and features not previously seen on Volvo cars.

“The C40 is a car that symbolises electrification and delivers on it,” says Robin Page, head of design at Volvo Cars. “It has the personality of the XC40, which proved to be attractive to many, but it’s dialled up even more through its dynamic expression and sleek profile. It’s a really attractive product for people who are looking for the easy-to-live-with aspects of an SUV with more of a modern statement.”

Built upon the fundamental building blocks of the XC40, the C40 gives the same sense of power and strong character as its sibling while adding athleticism and lightness. This idea of breaking new ground with something familiar is mirrored in individual details: the signature Thor’s Hammer headlights are augmented with new pixel LEDs, which automatically adjust to light conditions and switch on and off independently to optimise the light pattern. The equally emblematic vertical rear lights are now segmented, providing a testament to the engineering challenge of extending one big lamp along the roof line, while also creating a modern take on a classic design.

Carrying on the DNA
Similarly to the birth of the XC40, the C40 started as a spontaneous sketch by one of the designers in the team. And Yury Zamkavenka’s sketch “hit the ground running from the initial idea”, according to T. Jon Mayer, head of exterior design.

“That doesn’t happen very frequently. When it does, it’s always some of the more characterful ideas that flourish, because it’s such a pure statement from that first sketch,” T. Jon continues, adding that the uniqueness of the car – its commanding seating position combined with a streamlined form – becomes very clear when it’s on the road next to other cars.

“One of my favourite views of the car is the rear seven-eighths, which gives you a view of the side and the coupé line profile,” T. Jon says. “You see the SUV elements as it sits on these really big wheels, and it’s this tough little character but with a very sleek approach to the roof. It’s built upon the solidity of the XC40, but in a more dynamic way. These combinations give it a totally different expression, while still carrying on our DNA.”

That DNA is distinguished by a Scandinavian approach in the form language: sections are shaved and carved out of the solid form, creating a sense of purity and refinement; an understated confidence.

“It communicates a solidity, which can also link to a feeling of safety,” T. Jon says. “Subconsciously, this is a powerful beast that’s protective, yet we sculpt it in a way to make it as lightweight and efficient as possible.”

#Volvo #C40 #design #Recharge

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