Volvo's Electric Vision: Dissecting the 2021 Volvo Recharge Concept
The automotive world is embracing electrification in a big way, and Volvo Cars is not staying on the sidelines. The Volvo Concept Recharge, unveiled in 2021, is a testament to Volvo's vision for the future of electric mobility. More than a change in powertrains, the Concept Recharge signifies a paradigm shift in Volvo's design approach, aiming to redefine the future of all-electric Volvo cars.
A New Design Philosophy
The Concept Recharge, the physical embodiment of Volvo's 'less but better' mantra, offers a fresh take on Scandinavian design principles. The absence of an internal combustion engine has provided Volvo's designers with an unprecedented opportunity to evolve the car's proportions. This resulted in an increased interior space and improved aerodynamic efficiency, all while staying true to the simplicity and functionality inherent in Scandinavian design. The car's design appears to be a conscious effort to support a more sustainable lifestyle without compromising on style or practicality.
Reimagining Proportions
The first generation of Volvo's electric vehicles shared a common platform with combustion engine-powered cars. This necessitated certain compromises in design to accommodate both a battery pack and an internal combustion engine. However, the Concept Recharge brings forth an interesting deviation, revealing Volvo's future approach to electric vehicle design. The company has opted for a completely flat floor design, which is expected to be a hallmark of the next generation of Volvo's fully electric cars, starting with its upcoming electric-only SUV.
This design innovation, made possible by relocating the battery pack under the flat floor, has led to an extended wheelbase and larger wheel size. The result is more interior space, shorter overhangs, and a substantial storage area between the front seats. The roof profile, seating positions, and hood height have been optimized to maintain a high eye point, a characteristic beloved by drivers of Volvo SUV models like the XC40, XC60, and XC90. This, in turn, significantly enhances the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency, thereby improving range.
Introducing a New Design Language
The Concept Recharge also heralds a new design language for Volvo. All superfluous elements have been removed, leaving a refined, minimalist design that emphasizes precision and quality. The traditional grille has been replaced with a shield-like structure, accompanied by a reinterpretation of Volvo Cars' iconic Thor’s Hammer headlight design, now featuring HD technology-enabled graphics that reveal the main lamp units at night. Rear lamps that extend at higher cruising speeds for aerodynamics, nod to Volvo's design heritage, while signalling a new direction.
Inside the Concept Recharge
The interior of the Concept Recharge is a testament to Volvo's innovative design language. The flat floor creates more space and optimizes seating positions. A large, 15-inch standing touch screen forms the core of a new, intuitive infotainment system, promising a serene and calm driving experience. Embracing Scandinavian design hallmarks, the cabin features clean lines and extensive use of sustainable and natural materials. This thoughtful approach to design extends to the inclusion of a LiDAR sensor by Luminar, which is part of Volvo's strategy to offer safe autonomous driving in the future.
Final Thoughts
The Volvo Concept Recharge encapsulates Volvo Cars' vision for its electric future. With its all-electric approach, this concept vehicle is an impressive blend of innovation, sustainability, and elegant design. However, as Volvo ventures further into the electric landscape, it will be interesting to observe how these concept elements translate into production models. Volvo's aim to provide 'better solutions for a sustainable family life' certainly shines through in this concept. If the future of electric Volvo's closely follows the path laid out by the Concept Recharge, then it is indeed a future worth looking forward to.
-Ed
2021 Volvo Recharge Concept
