The Volvo EX40 (formerly C40 Recharge, now unified under the EX nameplate) is Volvo’s dedicated EV platform answer to the Indian premium electric SUV segment. Built on the CMA platform, powered by a 69 kWh battery (with a 78 kWh option), and running Google’s Automotive OS (Android Automotive — with built-in Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play), the EX40 brings Volvo’s legendary safety DNA and Scandinavian design philosophy to the Indian EV market at ₹55.90 lakh.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery | 69 kWh / 78 kWh |
| Motor Power | Single: 231 PS / Twin AWD: 408 PS |
| ARAI Range | Single: 530 km / AWD: 480 km |
| Real-World Range | 380–420 km (single motor, mixed) |
| 0–100 km/h | Single: 8.3s / AWD: 4.7s |
| DC Fast Charge (0–80%) | 37 minutes (150 kW) |
| Starting Price | ₹55.90 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Design & Google Automotive OS
The EX40’s Scandinavian minimalist design — clean lines, a sealed front face, and the distinctive Thor’s Hammer LED daytime running lights — is understated luxury. The 9-inch Google-powered infotainment is the most seamlessly integrated in-car Google experience available: Google Maps navigation is native (not Android Auto mirroring), Google Assistant responds to voice commands without phone dependency, and Google Play allows app installation. This is genuinely better than Android Auto mirroring available in most cars.
Safety
Volvo’s Pilot Assist (Level 2+ ADAS): highway steering assistance, adaptive cruise with stop-and-go, blind spot detection, FCTA, Run-off road protection, emergency steering. 8 airbags including a driver centre airbag. Volvo’s structural safety is unmatched at this price — the company has not built a car causing driver fatality above 40 km/h in decades. This safety reputation is the EX40’s unique selling proposition over EV-focused rivals.
Verdict
The Volvo EX40 is for buyers who want European safety engineering, Google Automotive OS, and Volvo’s brand values in an electric SUV. At ₹55.90 lakh, it’s less range-capable than the EV6 at ₹60.95 lakh but offers Volvo’s unmatched safety heritage and Google’s native integration. Rating: 8.9/10.
