The 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge may not be eligible for government incentives, but the new crossover is still a notable launch as the Swedish automaker’s first model designed as a pure electric vehicle

Volvo has pegged the Canadian starting price of its new fully electric C40 Recharge crossover at $72,600. This means that the luxury vehicle doesn’t qualify for any provincial or federal rebates, which have a $45,000 cut-off point for basic models (but allow for higher prices in the same vehicle family).

While this news may disappoint some customers, Volvo is clearly counting on the vehicle’s features — which are slightly different than the existing XC40 Recharge electric compact SUV — to win over potential buyers.

The car is available for pre-order now, with deliveries beginning next spring.

Two electric motors

The C40 Recharge is equipped with two electric motors at the front and rear of the vehicle and the all-wheel-drive powertrain can deliver 402 horsepower and 486 lb. ft. of linear torque, which is enough power for the C40 to go from 0 to 100 kilometres in 4.7 seconds, says Volvo.

The vehicle boasts a range of around 360 km, pending final approval from EPA certification and with a 78 kWh battery pack, can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in 33 minutes with DC fast charging. Volvo installed Google Android Apps to help with navigation and hands-free control. The vehicle is also designed to receive automatic over-the-air updates.

Ultimate trim level

The C40 is equipped at Volvo’s Ultimate trim level, which means it features a fixed Panoramic Moonroof, Advanced Pixel LED lighting, Pilot Assist, Harman Kardon Premium Sound, 360° Surround View Camera, and 20-inch wheels. 

The Swedish automaker also gave the C40 a leather-free interior, writing on its website that, “We believe this represents a new, more respectful interpretation of luxury and how materials can be used in car design.”

Owners are entitled to a “care offer,” which provides drivers with roadside assistance and the full Volvo new car warranty. Customers will receive complimentary maintenance services and wear coverage on select items for the first four years or 80,000 km.

Production underway

Production of the vehicles is now underway in Ghent, Belgium. Canadian customers can place a pre-order with a $500 deposit online at Volvocars.ca or at a local retailer.

“We’re excited to launch the versatile, pure-electric Volvo C40,” said Matt Girgis, managing director of Volvo Car Canada in a press statement. “A streamlining of the purchase process – both online and in store – presents our customers with a transparent, flexible, and convenient way to drive electric.”