Volvo Concept Recharge unveiled, hints at what the electric XC90 will look like
Volvo has announced its plans for the future and unveiled an all-electric Concept Recharge to give a hint at its future cars. According to the Swedish carmaker, electrification will not just be limited to the engine, but will also represent a new paradigm in design and the way it conceives vehicles.
The Concept Recharge is designed to show how Volvo's design will change for pure electric cars and is based on a "less but better" philosophy that Volvo says is an extension of its Scandinavian design heritage. For example, instead of the grille, there is now a large front shield. It is complemented by an evolution of 'Thor's hammer' headlights with HD technology.
“We need to transform this company from a mere premium conventional company.We need to transform it into a leader in the new premium electric segment, which is growing very fast," said Hakan Samuelsson, CEO of Volvo.
Volvo's electrification plan aims all of its vehicles to be electric by 2030. The Volvo Concept Recharge is seen as a possible electric successor to the XC90. The base of future Volvo cars will be completely flat, just like the concept car unveiled, to accommodate the batteriesand extend the wheelbase, resulting in very short overhangs.
TheConcept Rechargeshowsa spacious interior. The seats have been repositioned and a storage area has been added between the front seats.Given the absence of the engine, the hood of the car has also been modified, which allowedoptimising the roof lineto improve aerodynamics.
There is also alarge 15-inch screen that stands outon the inside. It incorporates the next generationinfotainment system and connected servicesthat the company is developing.
"Our Concept Recharge represents a manifesto for the all-electric future of Volvo Cars, as well as a new type of vehicle," said Robin Page, head of design. "It displays new and modern proportions that go hand-in-hand with increased versatility and shows what technology can enable in terms of design."
TheVolvo Concept Rechargealso includes LiDAR sensor, built bytechnology company Luminar.This will be a breakthrough inautonomous drivingand will allow the user to have avery smooth driving experienceon board the company's future models.
Volvodoes not mention whether theConcept Rechargehints at any future production model.But it does indicate thatmany features will be seen in upcoming SUVs.This will be the first of the company's new generation of 100% electric cars and will surely chart the way forward for the XC family of cars including the Volco XC90, XC60 and XC40 as well.
