Today, car owners are more environmentally conscious, as many of them are switching to electric vehicles. Powered by batteries that can be conveniently recharged at electric stations, these cars are a better upgrade even over hybrids to help reduce the carbon footprint. Volvo’s XC40 is one of the leading competitors in the electric vehicle market. Its base trim is available for an affordable price of $53,990. Here are some of the key features you should know before making the switch.

Performance
The Volvo XC40 is a pure electric P8 luxury SUV powered by twin permanent-magnet synchronous AC electric motors. Its 75-kWh battery pack does full justice to the EV’s performance to provide a decent mileage of 208 miles on a single charge.

Even with an all-electric powertrain, the vehicle can generate a combined 402 horsepower at 486 lbs. of torque. The all-wheel drive enables the compact SUV to reach speeds of 60mph in under 4.7 seconds. But indeed, one of the most convenient features of the all-electric SUV is the one pedal drive, owing to the regenerative braking system. Upon complete discharge, the EV battery pack can be recharged to 80% within just 40 minutes.

Interior
Do not let the classy exterior of the XC40 fool you. The SUV comes with a fully loaded infotainment system powered by the latest generation of Google’s Android Automotive.

This is a certain upgrade over the existing Sensus Connect, a standard installation in most Volvo gas-powered and hybrid vehicles. The infotainment console is at all times connected with Google Assistant, Maps, and Play Store, allowing you to stay connected without ever touching your phone once. One of the critical features of the smart infotainment console is the route planner that indicates how much battery will be consumed for the total duration of the drive. You can customize the console and adjust just about everything, from the interior temperature to passenger safety.

Space and storage
Volvo designed this all-electric vehicle, keeping in mind both passenger comfort and ample storage. The chassis is designed to offer a comfortable driving positing, spacious second- and third-row seating with ample boot space. In fact, when tests were done to assess storage space with the seats folded, the XC40 freed up enough space for 23 carry-on-size suitcases. There is additional storage space under the hood with both electric motors placed at the back and the battery placed at the vehicle’s front.

Safety features
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Volvo XC40 recharge a five-star rating for safety. Four high-definition cameras provide a full 360° panoramic view for convenient parking. A collision protection system monitors oncoming vehicles, stray objects on the highway, and even pedestrians who might cross without any warning. Additionally, drive assist technology ensures that you are always aware of any imminent impacts, even at slow speeds. Moreover, the chassis is designed to absorb maximum damage from the front and back to ensure its occupants remain unharmed. The cage design engine and battery housing structure additionally prevent loose parts from tearing into the chassis upon any directional impact. Additional safety features include a blind spot information system and steer assist for proper lane control.

All in all, the Volvo XC40 Recharge is a fierce contender in the condensed EV market and ticks across the board for performance, comfort, safety, and affordability.