Electrification is more than just a change in powertrains for Volvo Cars.The Volvo Concept Recharge is a manifesto for the future generation of all-electric Volvos, and it represents a new paradigm in automotive design.
Concept Recharge is based on the philosophy of ‘less is more’, which is a hallmark of Scandinavian design. The designers, for example, were able to develop the car’s proportions to enhance interior space while also boosting aerodynamic efficiency by removing the complexity of the internal combustion engine. As a result, the car provides genuinely improved solutions for supporting a sustainable family life.
Volvo’s initial generation of electric cars share a floor with combustion engine-powered vehicles, necessitating a delicate balance of dimensions and space to accommodate both a battery pack and an internal combustion engine.
As seen in the Concept Recharge, the next generation of Volvo fully electric cars will have flat floors, the first of which is the company’s first SUV on a wholly new electric-only technological platform.
The designers increased the car’s wheelbase and wheel size by removing the engine and replacing it with a full battery pack under the flat floor. Shorter overhangs and additional internal space, including a huge storage area between the front seats, are the result.
These developments have led designers to rearrange the seats, optimise the roof profile, and reduce the hood of the Concept Recharge while keeping the high eye point cherished by Volvo XC40, XC60, and XC90 drivers.When compared to a standard SUV, this strategy enhances aerodynamic efficiency and thus range.
A new Volvo design language is also introduced with this concept car. Keeping with the ‘less is more’ ethos, all unnecessary elements have been deleted, and what remains has been given a high-precision, flush finish.
A shield-like structure has replaced the traditional grille, which is complemented by a new interpretation of Volvo Cars’ Thor’s Hammer headlight design. These contain pure graphics with HD technology that open at night to expose the primary lamp units.
Signature vertical rear lamps are redesigned with a set of wings that extend at greater cruising speeds to boost overall aerodynamics and relate to the brand’s strong design heritage.
Inside the Concept Recharge, the Volvo design language takes on a fresh shape. For everyone inside the car, the flat floor gives greater space and a better seating posture.
A big 15-inch standing touch panel is at the heart of the company’s next-generation connected infotainment system’s new and better user experience.Technology, which is designed to be logical and intuitive to use, contributes to a quiet and calm environment.
Inside the cabin, the newest infotainment technology blends seamlessly with other elements of Scandinavian design, such as clean lines and liberal use of sustainable and natural materials.
Finally, the Concept Recharge represents Volvo Cars’ safety goals for the future. A Luminar LiDAR sensor, which is a key component of Volvo Cars’ plan for future safe autonomous drive technology, is mounted in the best possible location on the roof to collect data on the surroundings around the vehicle.
