It's already well-known that Volvo has embraced an all-electric future. With legislation changing across the world and an increased number of Swedes switching to electric, Volvo is beginning to offer all-electric versions of all their models.

Volvo has recently announced a new prototype concept called the Recharge, and it's set to eventually take the place of the XC90, the SUV sitting at the top of their range.

However, the switch to all-electric isn't just about swapping the powertrain over. It calls for a whole new design ethos and language that represents a new chapter for the world of car manufacturing.

Let's take a look at how the Volvo Concept Recharge is the outline of their all-electric future, which they hope to achieve by 2030.

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The Concept Recharge

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Via Volvo

Scandinavian minimalism and a futuristic design cross paths to create the Concept Recharge's body. It's a sleek and aerodynamic concept that is shaping the way Volvo look at electric cars. They have taken the "less is more" approach to undergo this next chapter of their design.

Volvo said the following in their press release;

By removing the complexity of the internal combustion engine, the designers have been able to evolve the car's proportions to increase interior space while also improving aerodynamic efficiency. The result is a car that offers genuinely better solutions to support sustainable family life.

The aim for a more sustainable future for the production of family cars seems to be the central point of this new chapter for Volvo. For years they have been known for reliability and safety, both traits that they are aiming to carry over in their switch to all-electric.

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Via Volvo

Volvo’s first generation of electric cars begun by offering hybrids and now full-electric options on models such as the XC40. Therefore they all share a platform with combustion engines, meaning that they need a balance in proportions and space to be able to fit both a battery pack and an engine.

However, the next generation of Volvo’s fully electric cars will feature flat floors and an all-new platform, as shown through the Concept Recharge. The first of these will be the XC40 SUV on a completely new electric-only platform.

They have removed the engine and replaced it with a full battery pack under the flat floor. This meant that the designers at Volvo have been able to extend the wheelbase and the wheel size of the car. The result is shorter overhangs which improve aerodynamic efficiency, as well as a lot more room on the interior which including a large storage area between the front seats.

Polestar Influence

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Via Volvo

It's no news that Volvo's sub-brand Polestar has been pushing the boundaries of what we know as an all-electric car.

They have made innovations in the sports car world by creating a capable EV that can eat up the corners around the Nürburgring and also unveiled some striking concepts which offer a futuristic alternative to tesla.

Volvo's investment in Polestar has been paying off, even more so now that the design cues and technology begin to trickle their way down into Volvo mainline products. The Concept Recharge draws clear design influence from the Polestar 2, and that's not a bad thing at all.

Robin Page, head of design at Volvo had this to say:

“Our Concept Recharge represents a manifesto for the all-electric future of Volvo Cars, as well as a new type of vehicle. It displays new and modern proportions that go hand-in-hand with increased versatility and shows what technology can enable in terms of design.”

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Via Volvo

The Inside of the Concept Recharge is made from recycled and sustainable materials, the same as the Polestar range. The overall design is elegant and minimal, Volvo refers to it as a "Swedish living room". With thanks to the new flat floor, the Recharge provides more space and a better seating position for all those inside the car.

A large, 15 inch standing touch screen sits at the center of a new and improved next-generation connected infotainment system, it also carries over the clean lines and extensive use of sustainable and natural materials.

The Concept Recharge also shows Volvo's safety ambitions in the coming years, something which they have built themselves a reputation for over the years. They hope to carry this on with a LiDAR sensor mounted on the roof which they say will play a critical part in their plan for forthcoming safe autonomous drive technology.

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Via Volvo

It's no question that the design of the Concept Recharge is breathtaking and certainly pushes the boundaries. Volvo has already made a start in electrifying their vehicles and it's good to see that the research and development done by Polestar have made its way to the parent company.

The next generation of Volvo EV's will use this prototype to draw inspiration and technology from, and the new XC40 Recharge is already solidifying this. And if the Concept Recharge is anything to go off, we can be rest assured that Volvo's all-electric future will not disappoint.