Volvo C40 Recharge specifications and photos
The 2021 Volvo C40 Recharge is a fully electric compact crossover that introduces a sleek, coupe-like silhouette to the brand's EV lineup. Sharing its platform with the boxier XC40 Recharge, the C40 stands out as Volvo's first dedicated battery-electric model. It combines striking exterior design with standard dual-motor all-wheel drive.
Volvo C40 Recharge at a glance
Quick model context before comparing photos and trim-level specifications.
Introduced in March 2021, the C40 Recharge represents a key step in Volvo's transition toward electrification. Built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), it is the brand's first model to be offered exclusively as an electric vehicle without any combustion engine variants. While it shares its core platform, wheelbase, and width with the XC40, the C40 features a sloping roofline that lowers its overall height by 65 mm. This design choice targets buyers seeking a more athletic and stylized crossover, though it comes with minor trade-offs in rear headroom. Under the skin, the launch edition features a powerful dual-motor setup delivering robust performance, paired with a modern infotainment system developed in partnership with Google.
- Power: 408 hp
- Transmissions: single-speed reduction gear
- Seating: 5 seats
Photos, trims and specifications for Volvo C40 Recharge
This model page brings gallery images, trim comparison, and detailed technical data together for the 2021 generation.
Volvo C40 Recharge overview
Editorial context for design, cabin, performance, practicality, and buyer notes.
Design
The exterior design of the C40 Recharge is defined by its sweeping roofline, which gives the vehicle a distinct coupe-SUV stance. Beyond the silhouette, the model is distinguished by pixel LED headlights containing 84 diodes each, a redesigned front bumper with unique fog lights, a frameless body-colored grille cover, and a rear spoiler configuration. It rides on standard 19-inch alloy wheels that complement its proportions, presenting a sportier alternative to the traditional SUV shape while maintaining standard ground clearance elements.
Interior
Inside the cabin, the C40 Recharge closely mirrors the layout of the XC40, utilizing clean lines and vertical vents on the dashboard. The center console is dominated by a portrait-oriented 9-inch touchscreen running an Android-powered infotainment system with built-in Google services like Maps and Assistant. Drivers also get a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Standard equipment includes a panoramic glass roof, power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a 13-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. However, the sloping roofline reduces rear-seat headroom by 62 mm compared to its more upright sibling.
Performance
The launch version is powered by the C40 Recharge Twin drivetrain, featuring two electric motors—one on each axle—for standard all-wheel drive. Together, they produce a combined output of 408 horsepower (300 kW) and 660 Nm of torque. This enables the crossover to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, with the top speed electronically limited to 180 km/h. The 400-volt system uses a 78 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering a claimed driving range of up to 420 km. Charging is supported at up to 150 kW on a fast DC charger, enabling a 10 to 80 percent charge in approximately 33 minutes.
Practicality
For daily use, the C40 Recharge offers a 413-liter rear cargo compartment, which remains competitive despite the sloping rear window. Up front, a 31-liter storage compartment under the hood, or 'frunk', provides a convenient space for charging cables and smaller items. The vehicle accommodates up to five passengers, though taller rear occupants may notice the restricted headroom caused by the coupe-like roofline. Its compact footprint makes it highly maneuverable in urban environments while still providing the raised seating position typical of a crossover.
Safety and tech
Technology is a major focus for the C40 Recharge, featuring an Android-based operating system that receives over-the-air (OTA) updates for both the infotainment and powertrain systems. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active driver assist systems, a 360-degree camera system for parking assistance, and wireless smartphone charging. Lighting is handled by advanced matrix headlights that adjust their beam to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic while keeping the road fully illuminated.
Buyer notes
When shopping for the 2021 Volvo C40 Recharge, buyers should note its position as a premium, performance-oriented electric crossover. The dual-motor AWD setup offers rapid acceleration, but those prioritizing maximum range and cargo volume might also want to compare it against the more traditional XC40. The inclusion of standard features like the panoramic roof, Harman Kardon sound, and advanced headlights makes the initial trim level highly equipped, though exact packaging and feature availability can vary depending on the local market.
Trims and key specifications
Use this table to compare the main differences between available configurations.
| Trim / modification | Engine | Power | Seats | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C40 Recharge Twin | - | 408 hp | 5 | single-speed reduction gear |
Specifications can vary by market, model year, and equipment package. Use the trim sections below to review the full data for each configuration.
Volvo C40 Recharge photo gallery
20 images are collected here with the main specifications and trim data for this model.
Photo Volvo C40 Recharge
Specifications by trim
Choose a configuration below to open full technical data grouped by category.
C40 Recharge Twin 21 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Top speed, km/h | 180 |
|---|---|
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s | 4.7 |
Engine
| Engine | 300 kW |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Electric |
| Power, hp | 408 |
| Torque, Nm | 660 |
| Number of electric motors | 2 |
| Plug-in charging support | + |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4431 |
| Height, mm | 1582 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2701 |
| Front track, mm | 1598 |
| Rear track, mm | 1623 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 2207 |
| Gross weight, kg | 2620 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1850 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 413 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | single-speed reduction gear |
|---|---|
| Drive | All-wheel drive |
| Automatic transmission | + |
Volvo C40 Recharge questions
Short answers based on the specifications and photos available in this catalog.
What body style is the 2021 Volvo C40 Recharge?
The 2021 Volvo C40 Recharge is a five-door compact crossover utility vehicle (SUV) featuring a sloping, coupe-like roofline.
What are the powertrain and performance specs of the C40 Recharge Twin?
The C40 Recharge Twin features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 408 horsepower and 660 Nm of torque. This allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, with a top speed limited to 180 km/h.
How long does it take to charge the 2021 Volvo C40 Recharge?
Using a fast DC charger with a capacity of up to 150 kW, the 78 kWh battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in about 33 minutes. The car utilizes a 400-volt electrical system.
How does the interior space compare to the Volvo XC40?
While the C40 shares its wheelbase and width with the XC40, its sloping roofline reduces rear-seat headroom by 62 mm. Rear cargo capacity is rated at 413 liters, and there is an additional 31-liter storage compartment under the hood.
What infotainment technology is included in the C40 Recharge?
The C40 features a 9-inch portrait touchscreen running an Android-based system developed with Google, integrating Google Maps, Assistant, and the Play Store. Both the infotainment system and the powertrain control software support over-the-air updates.