Volvo previews new XC40 and V40 concepts at Gothenburg, Sweden



Volvo Cars has unveiled the concept of its future compact cars: the XC40 crossover and V40 hatchback. The event took place at the company’s design studios in Gothenberg. Both cars, callsign Concept 40.1 and Concept 40.2, will ride on the company’s new Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform.

The Concept 40.1 previews the next generation XC40 model that will go head to head with the BMW X1. Just like the 90 series Volvos, the XC40 gets Thor’s Hammer LED DRLs, a lengthy grille and a contrasting black roof. The 40.1 is said to be front-wheel driven and will be utilising a hybrid powertrain consisting of a three-cylinder petrol turbo engine working with an electric motor. A seven-speed twin clutch gearbox used in this XC40 will have an electric motor acting on one of the twin-clutch shafts.Volvo Concept 40.2 rear quarter high

The Concept 40.2 will be the new V40/S40 with electrical power. The aesthetics on this concept is a huge departure from the outgoing V40, and shares the same front fascia as the crossover concept. However, this gets a more exquisite sunroof and the rear end is inspired by the S90 saloon. The concept is aimed at saloon loving markets in America and Asia, which means the presently discontinued S40 has finally found its rightful successor.

This concept also reveals Volvo’s small electric car aspirations; power is delivered to the front courtesy of an electric powertrain and a battery pack lying underneath the car. This EV can cover up to 347 km under a single charge.

Both the audacious XC40 and radical V40 concepts are fruits of the Volvo and parent company, Geely. Since the large premium car segment is spearheaded by the efforts of the new and brilliant XC90, S90 and V90, expect these two compacts to rock the small premium car segment. The XC40 is planned for production in 2017, followed by the new V40 a year later.


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XC40

Volvo V40