Concept Recharge is the minimalist basis of future Volvo EVs

Volvo said its Concept Recharge is a "manifesto for the next generation of all-electric Volvos." 

That means the future Volvo EVs will be designed in a "less but better" philosophy, also with a "heritage of Scandinavian design." 

An example of that design strategy is the Concept Recharge's increased interior space, a result of the electric powertrain that's more compact than an internal combustion engine. 

By removing the engine and replacing it with a full battery pack under the flat floor, the designers have extended the wheelbase and the wheel size of the car. The result is shorter overhangs, as well as more interior space including a large storage area between the front seats.

Volvo compared the new design to its first-generation EVs, which shared a floor with combustion engine-powered cars. That required a balance in proportions and space to be able to accommodate both a battery pack, and an internal combustion engine.

In the Concept Recharge, these advancements allowed designers to reposition the seats, tweak the roof profile, and lower the hood of the car while retaining the high seating position of the XC40, XC60, and XC90 SUVs. 

With a more aerodynamic shape, the concept EV's range will improve over a typical SUV, Volvo claimed. 

Continuing the theme of the "less but better," Volvo's new design language, all unnecessary styling elements have been removed to create a "high-precision, flush execution."

The traditional grille has been replaced with body work that retains the Swedish carmaker's logo. Volvo’s "Thor’s Hammer" headlight design remains, and is said to include the latest HD technology. 

Signature vertical rear lamps from '90s Volvos are still present in the Concept Recharge. 

 

Inside, a 15-inch vertical touchscreen features the company’s next-generation infotainment system. 

The latest infotainment technology goes along with other hallmarks of Scandinavian design: clean lines and extensive use of sustainable and natural materials inside the cabin, Volvo said.

“Inside the Concept Recharge, we create a truly Scandinavian living room feeling,” Volvo Design Head Robin Page said. “The interior integrates our latest user experience technology with beautiful, sustainable and natural materials."

Finally, the Concept Recharge also aims to be safe. A LiDAR sensor, built by technology company Luminar and a critical part of brand's plan for  autonomous drive technology, is placed on the roof to collect data on the environment around the car.

Photos from Volvo

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