With the introduction of the new Volvo XC40 Recharge T5 R-Design, the Swedish marque moves a step closer to its ambition of reducing carbon emissions per car by 40%; it is also now the first and only automotive brand in Malaysia to offer a full range of Completely Knocked-Down (CKD) plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) all assembled in Malaysia.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge T5 is built on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, and comes with the brand’s first-ever 1.5 litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine Drive-E powertrain, with an electric motor mounted to its seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox to drive the front wheels. Designed for the city and the planet, the twin engine set-up provides a more sustainable drive, with CO2 emissions of just 50 grams per kilometre, while maintaining the luxury and performance of a Volvo.
“We are excited that we can finally offer one of our most successful SUVs as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, and thus completing our full line-up of PHEVs,” said Nalin Jain, the managing director of Volvo Car Malaysia. “The launch of the XC40 Recharge T5 is a sign of greener times ahead as we continue to strive towards a more sustainable future and do our part to not only reduce our carbon footprint, but also help our customers reduce theirs as well.”
The Recharge T5 powertrain has a combined output of 262hp and 425Nm of torque, while 160Nm of torque and a maximum power of 82hp is generated from the electric motor to give a boost of instantaneous acceleration. Together with the petrol engine, the XC40 Recharge T5 reaches 100km/h in just 7.3 seconds with a 180km/h top speed.
SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY
The XC40 Recharge T5 comes equipped with the same award-winning safety, connectivity and infotainment technology expected of a modern Volvo within its sporting edge design. It is also produced with the trademark high-quality control and expertise of Volvo, upholding their commitment to prioritise the safety of its customers as well as providing them with the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way.
Some of the technology included in the XC40 Recharge T5 are safety and driver assistance features such as the Pilot Assist system, City Safety, Run-off Road protection and mitigation, and Cross Traffic alert with brake support; together these help instill driver confidence and increase comfortability for an overall safer drive. Five different driving modes are available: Hybrid (default), Pure, Off-road, Power and Individual.
RECHARGE R-DESIGN
Just like other XC40 variants, the Volvo XC40 Recharge T5 embraces the elegant Scandinavian design language that has defined Volvo’s image, combining sleek aesthetics with utility and functionality.
Featuring a stylish and urban look, the new XC40 retains its bold and expressive design, highlighting its signature R-Design trim, allowing drivers to stand out when exploring the city without blending into the crowd. The car also comes with a charging lid on the left-hand front wing as well as a radically new approach to internal storage.
Additionally, the storage areas in thecabin have been designed to provide drivers with more functional space in the doors, including retractable hooks for hanging items.
“The fundamentals surrounding safety, design and performance are the same for this model as with any other Volvo. Through the dedication of our team, we are confident that this car checks all the right boxes to provide an enjoyable driving experience. At the same time, we hope that the launch of XC40 Recharge T5 will provide a more sustainable choice for Malaysians and spur everyone to think about taking active steps in sustainability together, so we can recharge our environment and the future,” noted Nalin.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge T5 comes in five colour options: Blackstone, Crystal White Pearl, Bursting Blue Metallic, Glacier Silver Metallic and Coral Red Metallic. Priced at RM255,888, the XC40 Recharge T5 currently sells for RM241,997.04 after sales tax exemption (OTR, without insurance).
(Note: Sales tax exemption for all vehicle purchases extended until June 30, 2021.)
