By Ian Strachan.
Volvo’s commitment to producing a complete range of fully electric cars means there are some exciting new models coming from the Swedish manufacturer.
The Volvo EX40 is a case in point. It’s the fully electric version of Volvo’s excellent XC40 SUV, with some attractive design cues as well as the wide range of standard features and safety aids you’d expect from a Volvo.
I test drove the Volvo EX40 Single Motor Extended Range Ultra.The extended range variant increases its official range from 294 miles to 350 miles on a single charge. It’s rear-wheel drive powered by a 79kWh electric motor. But it develops 252PS, has a top speed of 112 mph and will propel you from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds.
The EX40 has all the virtues you’d expect from a Volvo SUV. As well as being no slouch when it comes to performance, it is very comfortable, spacious and well-equipped. It fits into the crowded compact SUV sector but still gives you a good level of practicality on top of its sporty performance.
The EX40 is a good looker from all angles. My test car came in an attractive Vapour Grey metallic paint (unusually a no-cost option). Smart 20-inch alloys complete its looks.
The interior of the EX40 is modern and well laid out. You get pleasant trim materials and the heated front seats are supremely comfortable. You also get a heated, leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, two-zone climate control and plenty of storage spaces.
Specification on the EX40 is good, with nine-inch colour touch-screen Google navigation system with voice control, DAB eight-speaker sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, four USB ports, cruise control with intelligent speed assistance, and a range of safety technology including automatic lane keeping aid, distance monitoring, front collision warning and pedestrian and cyclist detection.
You also get all round electric windows and door mirrors, automatic windscreen wipers, automatic LED headlights with active high beam, rear parking sensors with camera, powered tailgate and smartphone charger.
There is no start/stop button on the EX40. The power is on when you get into the car and switches off when you get out and lock the vehicle.
Handling on the EX40, with its rear-wheel drive is sure-footed and very comfortable..
If the EX40 is your first experience of a fully electric vehicle you’ll be hooked for life. It’s not cheap – this model is £58,355 on the road – but residuals are good and the smugness comes free.
