Volvo Launches Recharge EV Sub-Brand

Volvo Cars Corp. is introducing a new Recharge sub-brand for all future fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, starting with the EV variant of the XC40 compact crossover to be unveiled later today.

The XC40 Recharge also will be the first Volvo model that lists its lifecycle carbon footprint, which will be included in the specifications of all of the carmaker’s new vehicles.

Volvo aims to reduce the average lifecycle carbon dioxide emissions generated by its vehicle fleet by 40% in 2025 from 2018 levels. The reduction will come from electrification, more fuel-efficient combustion engines, environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, using recycled components and greater coordination with suppliers.

Volvo, which offers electrified variants of all its models, expects full EVs will account for half of its global sales by 2025. The carmaker also aims to reduce CO₂ emissions generated by its facilities and those of its suppliers 25% by 2025. By that time, Volvo says, 25% of the plastics it uses in its new cars will come from recycled sources.

The Swedish carmaker says the new initiatives will help it meet its goal of becoming a climate neutral company by 2040.