Volvo’s C40 Recharge EV offers a unique driving experience with its One-Pedal Drive mode. This innovative feature allows drivers to control both acceleration and braking with just one pedal, making it a convenient and efficient option for city driving.
The C40 Recharge is an electric crossover vehicle that comes equipped with two pedals: one for acceleration and one for braking. However, with the One-Pedal Drive mode, drivers can choose to use only the accelerator pedal to control both speed and braking.
Volvo Cars Korea explains that the One-Pedal Drive mode is particularly suited for driving in the city, with speeds ranging from 35 to 40 kilometers per hour. By utilizing regenerative braking, which captures and stores kinetic energy that would otherwise be lost during braking, the C40 Recharge maximizes energy efficiency. This kinetic energy is then transferred to the vehicle’s battery as electricity, which can be used to power the motor engine.
The One-Pedal Drive mode offers three different positions: off, on, and auto. When the mode is off, there is no braking force when the foot is released from the accelerator pedal. In the automatic position, the high braking effect of the One-Pedal Drive mode is activated when driving at speeds below 50 kilometers per hour.
Once the One-Pedal Drive mode is fully engaged, drivers can simply control the speed of the vehicle by adjusting the angle of their right foot, without needing to press the brake pedal if there is enough distance between their car and the vehicle ahead or if they are approaching a traffic light.
Driving in One-Pedal Drive mode provides a unique experience that feels like playing a racing game in a realistic setting. The C40 Recharge can easily come to a stop by gradually slowing down when enough distance is secured.
Apart from the convenient One-Pedal Drive mode, the 2024 C40 Recharge also boasts an upgraded powertrain with more efficient motors, allowing for a driving distance of 407 kilometers per charge, an increase of 51 kilometers from the previous model. The vehicle’s battery level remained at 43 percent after an 88-kilometer test drive.
In addition, the C40 Recharge features an upgraded Tmap infotainment system with an artificial intelligence assistant named Aria. Aria recognizes voice commands and can perform various tasks such as setting navigation routes, searching for information online, and finding the nearest charging points. Drivers can even set routines for specific times and days, enabling the vehicle to automatically display the route and provide relevant information like weather updates and stock market indexes.
The 2024 C40 Recharge is available in South Korea with a starting price of 68.6 million won ($51,500).
Overall, Volvo’s C40 Recharge EV with One-Pedal Drive mode offers a seamless and efficient driving experience, making it an attractive option for city dwellers. With its increased driving range, upgraded technology, and competitive pricing, this electric crossover aims to provide a holistic and convenient driving solution for environmentally conscious consumers.
