Volvo is going EV-only and the company has unveiled the new Recharge concept, which is being billed as a “manifesto for the next generation of all-electric” models. Looking far more radical than the XC60 and XC90, the Recharge adopts a new design philosophy that embraces the idea of “less but better.” It seeks to eliminate “unnecessary elements” and allow for a “high-precision, flush execution.”
Starting up front, the grille has been replaced by a “shield-like structure” that features an illuminated Volvo emblem. It’s flanked by a new interpretation of the Thor’s Hammer headlights, which are slender and feature an assortment of different animations. Moving further back, we can see streamlined bodywork and chunky side skirts. The model also has flush-mounted door handles and suicide rear doors. Other notable highlights include a panoramic glass roof, slim pillars and a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor.
Continuing to the rear, there are vertical taillights which have been “reimagined with a set of wings that extend at higher cruising speeds to further improve overall aerodynamics.” The concept also sports a minimalist bumper, a concave liftgate and a small spoiler. The “less but better” theme continues in the cabin as drivers will find a minimalist dashboard with a 15-inch infotainment system. Speaking of screens, there’s a freestanding digital instrument cluster mounted on the steering column.
Elsewhere, there are four individual seats which are separated by floating center consoles. The concept also features eco-friendly materials as well as a bag-like storage compartment. According to head of design, Robin Page, “The interior integrates our latest user experience technology with beautiful, sustainable and natural materials. Each part of the interior is like a piece of art and could stand alone as individual furniture in a room.”
Volvo was coy on specifications, but noted the concept rides on a new platform designed specifically for electric vehicles. This allows for a fully flat floor, unlike the company’s first-generation of EVs which shared their floor with ICE-powered models and required designers to balance “proportions and space to be able to accommodate both a battery pack and an internal combustion engine.” While the Recharge is technically a concept, it’s expected to preview the redesigned XC90. Volvo has previously said the crossover will arrive “around 2022,” so we should learn more in the coming months.
