Volvo Concept Recharge follows the mantra of 'less but better'

KUALA LUMPUR: Volvo detailed its EV plans while unveiling the new all-electric Concept Recharge at the ‘Tech-Day’ event yesterday. As per the Swedish marque, the concept is a manifesto for the next generation all-electric Volvo cars that has the mantra of 'less but better' at its core. The concept is shown in the form of a high-riding electric wagon featuring a sleek exterior design with a simplistic interior.

Volvo's first-gen electric cars shared the floor with ICE models, thus requiring a balance in proportions and space to accommodate a battery pack and an internal combustion engine. Unlike that, the next-gen Volvo EVs will have a completely new electric-only technology base with flat floors. 

By replacing the engine with the battery pack, the car gets an extended wheelbase and the wheel size, which leads to shorter overhangs and more interior space, Volvo explains. Also, the seats will be repositioned to optimize the roof profile and lower the car’s hood resulting in aerodynamic efficiency.

Further, continuing the 'less but better' theme is Volvo's new design language that forgoes all unnecessary elements for a high-precision, flush execution. The conventional grille on the front is replaced by a shield-like structure, complemented with a new interpretation of Volvo Thor’s Hammer headlight design. The latter gets the HD technology-enabled pure graphics that reveal the main lamp units when open at night. On the back, there are signature vertical rear lamps that are reimagined with a set of wings to further improve the aerodynamics.

“Our Concept Recharge represents a manifesto for the all-electric future of Volvo Cars, as well as a new type of vehicle,” said Robin Page, head of design. “It displays new and modern proportions that go hand-in-hand with increased versatility and shows what technology can enable in terms of design.”

Inside, the Volvo Concept Recharge gets more space, a better seating position, and a large, 15-inch central touch screen with the next-gen connected infotainment system. These go hand in hand with clean lines and extensive use of sustainable and natural materials inside the cabin. As for safety, the concept reflects Volvo's safety ambitions as it features a LiDAR sensor, built by tech company Luminar, which provides a breakthrough in safe autonomous driving.

“With the Concept Recharge we continue the rich roots of Volvo's design DNA in a modern and fresh way as we move into our all-electric future,” concluded Robin Page.

Also read: In-house operating system for next-gen Volvo cars