Volvo Car Japan has announced that by 2020, all of Volvo's domestic sales models will eliminate internal combustion-only vehicles, completing the first phase of electrification by making all models either plug-in hybrids or 48V hybrids.

According to Volvo, the introduction of the XC40 plug-in hybrid model on August 25th means that plug-in hybrid variants are now available for all models. Furthermore, by the end of the year, all gasoline-only engine cars will be replaced by 48V hybrid models, marking the completion of the first stage of electrification for Volvo cars sold domestically.

Volvo Cars has also established a new product line, Recharge, as a symbolic representation of its commitment to electrification. The term "Recharge = externally chargeable" will be used to refer to both electric vehicles (BEVs = Battery Electric Vehicles) and plug-in hybrid cars. Consequently, the "Twin Engine" designation, previously used for plug-in hybrid models, will be discontinued and replaced by "Recharge Plug-in hybrid."

As the next step in electrification, Volvo's first-ever battery electric vehicle (BEV), the "XC40 Recharge Pure Electric," is scheduled for domestic introduction in 2021.

The 48V hybrid powertrains, B4 / B5 (the B5 powertrain has already been introduced for some models since April 23, 2020) / B6, being introduced to each model this time, are equipped with a hybrid system that uses an ISGM (Integrated Starter-Generator Module) for regenerative braking to generate electricity, store it in a 48V lithium-ion battery, and provide power assistance to the engine.

The engine itself has also undergone modifications, with approximately 90% of its parts being newly designed. Thorough reduction of friction loss and the introduction of a CDA (Cylinder Deactivation) system, along with the 48V hybrid system, have reportedly improved fuel efficiency in the practical driving range.

Volvo Cars plans to introduce five new electric vehicle (BEV) models over the next five years, aiming for electric vehicles (BEVs) to account for 50% of global sales by 2025, with the remaining sales comprising hybrid vehicles (PHEVs and 48V hybrids).

Furthermore, the company aims to become a climate-neutral enterprise by 2040. This involves not only vehicle electrification but also reducing the environmental impact across all corporate activities, from development and production to the supply chain, thereby promoting sustainability. By strengthening its focus on "environmental care" alongside its core value of "safety," Volvo intends to maximize its brand value and the value it offers to its customers.