Volvo C40 Recharge (EC40) Pure Electric

Overview

The 2022 Volvo C40 (EC40) Pure Electric burst onto the scene as Volvo's first dedicated electric-only model, a sleeker, coupe-SUV sibling to the popular XC40. Aimed at the premium compact electric SUV segment, this stylish Swede highlights a rakish design, a sustainable vegan interior, and Google-powered infotainment. This particular "Pure Electric" trim, being the single-motor front-wheel-drive variant, offered a more accessible entry into C40 ownership. Though production ended in 2022, it's available on the used market with an estimated price around €31,590, making it a chic and safety-conscious choice.

What's New for 2022?

The big news for the C40 range in 2022 was the introduction of this very "Pure Electric" single-motor, front-wheel-drive model. Following the initial launch of the more powerful dual-motor all-wheel-drive versions, this variant broadened the C40's appeal by providing a more wallet-friendly entry point into Volvo’s distinctively styled electric coupe-SUV. It packed a slightly smaller battery than its AWD stablemate but still delivered a useful real-world range. Essentially, 2022 marked the year this specific, stylish fastback configuration hit European roads, bringing its unique charm to a wider audience.

Design & Exterior

The C40 Pure Electric certainly makes a statement with its dramatic, sloping roofline, giving it a distinctive coupe-SUV silhouette that stands out. Up front, Volvo’s signature "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights are present and correct, while the rear features a unique, eye-catching taillight design that extends up the C-pillars. This trim often featured stylish alloy wheels, and a contrasting black roof came as standard, adding to its sporty appeal. Dimensionally, it measures 4440 mm in length, 1873 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and 1596 mm in height, making it a compact yet striking vehicle.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the C40 Pure Electric impresses with a minimalist Scandinavian design and a commitment to sustainability, featuring a completely leather-free interior crafted from high-quality, premium-feeling materials. It seats five, with good front passenger space, though the sloping roofline slightly impacts rear headroom. Cargo capacity is practical, offering 404 litres in the boot, which expands to 1205 litres with the rear seats folded down. There’s also a handy 31-litre 'frunk' for charging cables. The tech suite is headlined by an excellent Google Android Automotive OS running on a 9-inch central touchscreen, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital driver display.

Performance & Driving Experience

The C40 Pure Electric, equipped with a single front-mounted Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM), produces 170 kW of power and 330 Nm of torque. This setup allows for a respectable 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 160 km/h. As a front-wheel-drive vehicle, its driving dynamics are geared towards smooth, refined progress rather than outright sportiness, making it an excellent urban companion and a capable cruiser. The ride is generally comfortable, and the strong regenerative braking enables an effective one-pedal driving mode, which is particularly useful in city traffic.

Range, Battery & Charging

The C40 Pure Electric features a 67 kWh usable battery capacity (69 kWh nominal), providing a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of approximately 373 km. Its energy efficiency is rated at 5.57 km/kWh. For AC charging, the standard 11 kW on-board charger can replenish the battery from empty to full in about 7-8 hours. When using DC fast charging via its CCS Type 2 port, the vehicle can accept up to 150 kW, allowing a 10-80% charge in around 32 minutes under ideal conditions, making longer trips quite feasible.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

True to Volvo's legacy, the C40 (EC40) boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. The Pure Electric trim comes well-equipped with a host of standard driver-assistance systems. These typically include Pilot Assist (adaptive cruise control with lane centering), Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Steer Assist and Cross Traffic Alert, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, Lane Keeping Aid, and Road Sign Information. Front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera also contribute to its comprehensive safety package, ensuring peace of mind on every journey.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

For the European market, the Volvo C40 Pure Electric typically came with a basic vehicle warranty of 3 years or 100,000 km, though this could vary slightly by country. The crucial high-voltage battery and electric motor components are covered for a more extensive period, generally 8 years or 160,000 km, with a guarantee to retain at least 70% of the battery's original capacity. As an EV, maintenance requirements are generally lower than traditional combustion engine cars, focusing on items like brakes, tyres, and cabin filters. Volvo's reputation for build quality also bodes well for long-term reliability.