Volvo EC40 Single Motor

Volvo EC40 Single Motor Overview

The Volvo EC40 Single Motor is Volvo’s compact premium electric SUV, essentially the renamed and updated C40 Recharge, aimed at drivers who want Scandinavian design, strong safety tech, and usable range without the price of a luxury flagship. As a stylish Volvo electric SUV, it targets urban professionals, young families, and downsizing couples who value comfort and sustainability as much as performance. With its coupe‑style roofline and high seating position, it bridges the gap between crossover practicality and sporty styling.

Built on Volvo’s CMA platform with a dedicated EV powertrain, the Volvo EC40 Single Motor focuses on efficiency and simplicity rather than headline‑grabbing power. Rear‑wheel drive brings improved driving dynamics versus earlier front‑drive versions, and the latest software optimizes efficiency, one‑pedal driving, and driver‑assist systems. Key EV specs include a usable battery capacity of around 66–70 kWh, WLTP range close to 478 km (about 297 miles), and DC fast charging capability. This combination makes the Volvo EC40 review especially relevant for buyers comparing electric SUV options such as the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6. In a crowded EV landscape, the EC40 matters because it delivers a balanced package of range, safety, and comfort in a compact footprint.

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Volvo EC40 Single Motor Performance and Driving Experience

The Volvo EC40 Single Motor delivers a refined, relaxed performance profile rather than aggressive acceleration. Power output is around 175–185 kW (238–252 hp) depending on market, with torque rated at 420 Nm (310 lb‑ft), enough for confident merging and brisk overtakes. It sprints from 0–100 km/h in about 7.3 seconds, with a top speed limited to 180 km/h (112 mph), in line with Volvo’s safety‑focused speed cap. Rear‑wheel drive gives a more natural, balanced feel than earlier front‑drive setups, improving traction under acceleration and adding a slightly sportier character.

On the road, the EC40 Single Motor is tuned for comfort and stability. Steering is light but accurate, and the suspension filters out most bumps without feeling overly soft. One‑pedal driving is available and well calibrated for city use, making stop‑and‑go traffic less tiring. Noise levels are low thanks to good insulation and the inherently quiet electric drivetrain, reinforcing the car’s premium character.

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Volvo EC40 Single Motor Range and Battery Specifications

Official Volvo EC40 Single Motor WLTP range figures reach up to 478 km (about 297 miles) depending on trim, with some markets quoting as high as ~569 km for the latest Single Motor Extended Range variant. In U.S. terms, Volvo dealers quote an EPA‑estimated range of around 298 miles for the 2025 EC40 Single Motor Extended Range. Realistically, drivers can expect a real‑world range of roughly 240–280 miles (385–450 km) in mixed conditions, depending on speed, temperature, and load.

The Volvo EC40 battery specs include a gross capacity of about 69–70 kWh and a usable capacity of around 66 kWh, using NMC chemistry. Energy consumption sits roughly in the 16–18 kWh/100 km range (about 260–290 Wh/mile) in typical driving, with best results in city use. Cold weather, high motorway speeds, and hilly terrain will reduce the Volvo EC40’s real‑world range, while gentle driving and mild temperatures can get close to WLTP numbers.

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Volvo EC40 Single Motor Charging Times and Options

The Volvo EC40 Single Motor supports versatile home and public charging solutions. An 11 kW AC onboard charger is standard, ideal for home wallboxes or workplace chargers. On a typical 7 kW home charger, a full charge from near empty to 100% usually takes around 10–11 hours, while a full 0–100% at 11 kW is closer to 7–8 hours, perfect for overnight charging.

For road trips, DC fast charging is a strong point. Earlier Single Motor versions charge at up to 130 kW DC, while updated Single Motor Extended Range variants can accept up to 200–205 kW DC in some markets. Under optimal conditions, you can expect a 10–80% fast charge in about 28–35 minutes, making it easy to add hundreds of kilometers of range during a quick stop. The EC40 uses the CCS standard in most regions and integrates well with major charging networks, so planning longer journeys is straightforward.

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Volvo EC40 Single Motor vs Competitors

In a Volvo EC40 vs Tesla Model Y comparison, the EC40 typically trails the Tesla for outright efficiency and supercharger network access, but answers with superior cabin refinement, safety features, and a more relaxed driving feel. Against the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, the Volvo EC40 Single Motor may offer slightly less rear space but competes strongly on real‑world range, interior quality, and brand safety reputation. Compared with premium rivals like the BMW iX1 or Mercedes EQA, the Volvo’s minimalist design, strong driver‑assist suite, and competitive EV specs make it a well‑rounded, premium‑feeling choice.

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