Volvo C40 Recharge - inspired by Scandinavian nature

In many ways, the Volvo C40 Recharge represents the future of Volvo Cars: it is the first Volvo model in history designed as pure electric only. Its SUV elements and benefits, combined with a lower profile, mean that Volvo Cars also enters a new segment – and it does so with design and features not previously seen on Volvo cars.

The C40 is built on the core elements of the XC40. This idea of breaking new ground with something familiar is mirrored in individual details: the signature Thor’s Hammer headlights are augmented with new pixel LEDs, which automatically adjust to light conditions and switch on and off independently to optimise the light pattern. The equally emblematic vertical rear lights are now segmented, creating a modern take on a classic design.

The Fjord Blue colour, inspired by the deep inlets on the Scandinavian west coast, flows from the exterior and creates a continuation inside by colouring the large swathes of carpet that extend up from the floor to the sides of the tunnel console and the front doors. This provides a foundation for the backlit translucent graphics on the dashboard and front door panels, which are a nod to the dramatic yet serene mountain sceneries in Sweden’s Abisko national park.

Along with nature as a source of inspiration, there is also a large number of sustainable materials used in the interior. A number of decorative elements are made of partially recovered plastic, while the mats are made entirely of recovered PET bottles. THE C40 offers the first skin-free interior of Volvo Cars, with one upholstery containing naturally renewable wool fibres and the second one using a combination of mockery textiles (also made of recycled plastic) and microtechnological material.

The interior layout has key functionality. Minimalism is an overarching theme, which becomes even more evident when looking at the instrument panel.