Some Volvo EVs are Getting New Names

Chris Teague
by Chris Teague

Alphanumeric vehicle names can be confusing, especially if they’re not directly tied to a vehicle specification or feature. Volvo ran into that issue with its electric and plug-in hybrid models, leading the automaker to change their names to more clearly designate their places in its catalog.


Volvo renamed the electric XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge to EX40 and EC40, respectively. The EX naming convention is used for the automaker’s new and upcoming EVs, the EX30 and EX90. The two renamed models were Volvo’s first mass-produced EVs, and while there are a few key differences between them and the new EX models, the move to give them a common name makes sense.


The plug-in hybrid variants of both are also getting a new name and will adopt Volvo’s “T” powertrain naming scheme going forward. A new Performance upgrade will also be available for the electric models that boosts output by 33 horsepower and remaps throttle response for a more thrilling driving experience.


The now-renamed XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge are different from the new EX30 and EX90 in that they were not conceived from the ground up as EVs. Volvo refitted the XC40 platform with batteries and electric motors instead of the gas powertrain the chassis supported before. At the same time, the new EX-branded EVs ride on an EV-first architecture that supports tidier battery packaging and better interior space.


[Image: Volvo]


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Chris Teague
Chris Teague

Chris grew up in, under, and around cars, but took the long way around to becoming an automotive writer. After a career in technology consulting and a trip through business school, Chris began writing about the automotive industry as a way to reconnect with his passion and get behind the wheel of a new car every week. He focuses on taking complex industry stories and making them digestible by any reader. Just don’t expect him to stay away from high-mileage Porsches.

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5 of 26 comments
  • Lorenzo Lorenzo on Feb 20, 2024

    Aw, I don't care what they call the models, as long as they don't use those dots over the O's.

    • AZFelix AZFelix on Feb 21, 2024


      Then the new 2025 Volvo Umlaut is definitely not for you.

  • Wolfwagen Wolfwagen on Feb 21, 2024

    The Alpha Numeric model system used to be good and had some consistency either to the size of the vehicle or engine. Now its just gobbly gook that doesn't make any sense. Lincoln was the worst since all their vehicles looked the same and all started with MK.

  • Mike Mike on Feb 21, 2024

    Audi has been using a3 a4 a5 a6 a7 a8 for a long time and i think it makes sense. But, they are rumored to be changing it all again within a year ir two.

  • Inside Looking Out Inside Looking Out on Feb 21, 2024

    Does Cybeertruck use the same stainless steel as Starship?

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