Volvo C40 Recharge (EC40) Single Motor

Overview

The 2025 Volvo EC40 Single Motor is Volvo’s super-stylish coupe-SUV, blending striking looks with pure electric punch. This rear-wheel-drive variant is all about accessible premium EV motoring, offering a fantastic entry point into Volvo's electric line-up. It’s a real head-turner with a conscience, thanks to its sustainable interior. In the European market, expect new prices around €52,690, with used examples fetching about €31,950. It's a compelling package for those wanting Scandi-cool design and zero-emission driving without going for the full-fat, pricier twin-motor versions. A sharp alternative to more conventional electric SUVs.

What's New for 2025?

For 2025, the Volvo EC40 Single Motor largely builds on the significant updates from the previous model year, which saw the introduction of this more efficient rear-wheel-drive powertrain. The 'EC40' name is now firmly established, aligning it with Volvo's latest EV family like the EX30. While major overhauls aren't on the cards this year, expect the latest software tweaks for its Google-based infotainment and potentially some fresh paint or wheel options to keep things crisp. The core offering of impressive range and that sleek coupe design remains its strong suit for the new model year.

Design & Exterior

The EC40 Single Motor screams Scandi-chic with its dramatic sloping roofline – a proper coupe-SUV that really stands out. Up front, you get those iconic 'Thor's Hammer' LED headlights, while the rear features a distinctive light signature that climbs the C-pillars. It’s a sleek machine, measuring 4440 mm long, 1873 mm wide (without mirrors), and 1596 mm tall. This trim keeps the clean, minimalist aesthetic Volvo is famed for, often rolling on stylish alloy wheels that complement its sharp design. It’s less shouty than some rivals, but oozes understated cool.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the EC40 Single Motor and you're greeted by a cabin that's pure Volvo: minimalist, beautifully crafted, and packed with sustainable materials – no leather in sight! It comfortably seats five, offering a surprisingly airy feel despite the sloping roof. For your kit, there's a decent 404-litre boot, expanding to a handy 1205 litres with the rear seats folded flat. Plus, you get a nifty 31-litre 'frunk' under the bonnet for charging cables. The centrepiece is the slick Google Android Automotive-powered infotainment system on a portrait touchscreen, with Google Maps and Assistant built-in.

Performance & Driving Experience

This rear-wheel-drive EC40 Single Motor is no slouch, zipping from 0-100 km/h in a respectable 7.3 seconds. Its single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) delivers a punchy 175 kW of power and a hefty 420 Nm of torque, making city driving and overtakes a breeze. Being rear-driven, it feels more engaging than older front-drive Volvos, offering a nicely balanced and comfortable ride. It's pretty refined too, with smooth power delivery and one-pedal driving mode that makes cruising effortless. Braking is strong and predictable, blending regen and friction brakes seamlessly.

Range, Battery & Charging

The EC40 Single Motor packs a 67 kWh usable battery, giving a real-world range estimated by Green Cars Compare at around 407 km – plenty for most weekly grinds and even some longer jaunts. Efficiency is a solid 6.07 km/kWh. For top-ups, it has a CCS Type 2 port. AC charging maxes out at 11 kW, meaning a full charge takes around 7 hours overnight. Find a DC fast charger, and it’ll slurp power at up to 150 kW, juicing from 10-80% in roughly 28-30 minutes. Perfect for a quick splash-and-dash on a road trip.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Volvo and safety go hand-in-hand, and the EC40 is no exception, boasting a top-tier 5-star Euro NCAP rating. This Single Motor trim comes loaded with kit to keep you safe. Expect Volvo’s renowned Pilot Assist system, which combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping aid for semi-autonomous driving on motorways, as standard or readily available. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Cross Traffic Alert with autobrake, and a suite of collision avoidance systems are also typically included. It’s like having a very attentive Swedish co-pilot looking out for you.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Volvo typically offers a solid warranty package in Europe. Expect a comprehensive vehicle warranty for 3 years or 100,000 km, whichever comes first. Crucially, the high-voltage battery is usually covered for 8 years or 160,000 km, with a guarantee against excessive degradation (often to 70% state-of-health). The electric powertrain components often share this longer coverage. While specifics can vary by market, Volvo's reputation for reliability is strong, and EV maintenance is generally lower than petrol cars, meaning fewer trips to the garage and more time enjoying the drive.