volvo concept recharge - anticipating the next generation of electric cars

volvo has presented a manifesto for the future of electric automobiles. dubbed the volvo concept recharge, these ideas represent a new paradigm in car design, particularly for the next generation of all-electric volvos. with a mantra of less but better, volvo highlights its heritage of scandinavian design. 

images by volvo

volvo’s first generation of electric cars shares a floor with combustion engine-powered cars, which requires a balance in proportions and space to be able to accommodate both a battery pack and an internal combustion energy. the next generation of volvo’s fully electric cars – the first of which is the company’s first SUV on a completely new electric-only technology base – will feature flat floors. by removing the complexity of the internal combustion engine, volvo was able to evolve the car’s proportions, increasing its interior space while improving its aerodynamic efficiency. this also allowed to extend the wheelbase and the wheel size of the car, resulting in shorter overhangs and a large storage area between the front seats.

by applying the less but better concept, volvo has removed all unnecessary elements and treats what remains with high-precision. the traditional grille has been replaced with a shield-like structure supported by a new interpretation of the company’s thor’s hammer headlight design. these include HD technology-enabled pure graphic, which open at night to reveal the main lamp units. the signature vertical rear lamps have been reimagined with a set of wings that extend at higher cruising speeds to further improve overall aerodynamics.

the interiors feature extra space thanks to the flat floor which results in a better seating position for users. a large 15-inch touch screen, which is both logical and intuitive, provides info in a serene and calm way. ‘inside the concept recharge, we create a truly scandinavian living room feeling,’ said robin page. ‘the interior integrates our latest user experience technology with beautiful, sustainable and natural materials. each part of the interior is like a piece of art and could stand alone as individual furniture in a room. we use the latest technologies, but not for their own sake. We always focus on the benefits that technologies can bring.’

project info:

name: volvo concept recharge

company: volvo