Volvo Cars announced the plan to discontinue its diesel-powered cars by early 2024. This will be instrumental for the brand in realizing its electric vehicle (EV) goals moving forward.
Volvo XC40 Recharge
The Swedish automaker said it will no longer spend on research and development (R&D) for new internal combustion engines. Ultimately, Volvo aims to become a fully EV brand by 2030 and later operate as a climate neutral company by 2040.
The first Volvo EV launched was the XC40 Recharge in 2020, which was followed by the C40 Recharge in March 2021. The brand’s EV portfolio continues to evolve with the EX90 and EX30, with the latter serving as its smallest offering in the electric car market.
Both the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge will be making their way to the Philippines on October 4, 2023. Based on WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) standards, the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge will provide a range of 537 km and 549 km, respectively.
These EVs offer quieter and smoother operations compared to diesel powertrains. Moreover, they are zero-tailpipe emission cars, allowing Volvo to reduce its carbon footprint.
“Electric powertrains are our future, and superior to combustion engines: they generate less noise, less vibration, less servicing costs, for our customers and zero tailpipe emissions,” said Volvo Cars Chief Executive Officer Jim Rowan.
Volvo C40 Recharge
Volvo hopes that its initiative to discontinue diesel engines – despite being its bread and butter in Europe only four years ago – will encourage others to follow suit.
“It is high time for industry and political leaders to be strong and decisive, and deliver meaningful policies and actions to fight climate change. We’re committed to doing our part and encourage our peers as well as political leaders around the globe to do theirs,” added Rowan.
Volvo will be joined by brands such as Bentley, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, and Rolls-Royce in transitioning to an all-electric lineup by 2030.
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