Comfort and sustainability: what you need to know about next-generation electric vehicles

According to the World Energy Council, about 17% of global greenhouse gas emissions are caused by cars. Ecologists and motorists themselves look with hope at electric cars as a radical solution to the problem. How will automakers respond?

Near future

Analysts say that electric cars will soon take a significant share of the market, and in the future they will completely replace internal combustion engines. A team of researchers from Bernstein predicts the following development of events: lower battery prices will allow leading automakers to sell all-electric cars cheaper than their gasoline and diesel counterparts by 2022. In a situation where electric transport becomes the main mode of transportation, the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere can be significantly reduced. Another plus of the implementation of the electroscenario is to reduce the noise impact. Clean and quiet metropolitan areas – until recently it seemed like a utopia.

According to the forecasts of the Swiss financial holding UBS Group AG, by 2030, approximately 40% of global car sales should be electric cars. The success of the plan to reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere depends largely on industrialists. Ambitious and altruistic goals are already being set by the largest automotive concern Volvo Cars: by 2025, 50% of the company’s global sales should be hybrids, the second half – electric vehicles, and by 2030 the brand plans to produce exclusively electric vehicles.

Representatives of Volvo note the company’s desire to contribute to a systematic solution to the problem of climate change. By reducing CO2 emissions at all levels of the production chain, logistics and car ownership, Volvo aims to be climate neutral by 2040. Volvo’s mission to protect the lives of people – both drivers and pedestrians – is expanding. Now the company is directing its efforts to protect the planet for the safety of all. Moreover, social responsibility is successfully combined with attractive aesthetics – environmentally friendly cars look very impressive.

Experience from other countries

On a global scale, European countries set the fashion for electric vehicles: they implement state programs to support the eco-development of industry and often resort to drastic measures. Thus, Norway, Germany and the Netherlands are planning to abandon cars with internal combustion engines at the national level. Asia is moving at its own pace, but the results are already impressive. In Japan, the number of charging stations is constantly increasing and recently exceeded the number of gas stations, while China has become the world leader in the growth of sales of electric vehicles. Image corrects reality itself. If until recently electric cars had a reputation as an expensive toy for “wealthy hippies”, today it is the car of progressive and responsible people, the transport of the future.

Volvo initiative

Volvo is committed to minimizing its footprint on the planet by implementing technologies that enable us to responsibly address our shared future. The company is accelerating the transition to electric vehicles, using recycled materials and alternative energy sources in its production. Circular economy and responsible business principles help the company protect the planet and create more fair society.

“Sustainability is just as important to us as safety,” concludes Håkan Samuelsson, CEO of Volvo Cars. The company sees the future of the automotive industry in electrification and enters a new era consciously.

Not just cars

C40 Recharge – the first Volvo model to be produced exclusively in electric version – designed to reduce the environmental impact. However, the safety of the driver and passengers is still the most important task for designers. And the innovative design at the same time forms a unique image of the car, modern and reliable. And this is the first Volvo car, in the production of which genuine leather is fundamentally not used. A new, more environmentally respectful interpretation of luxury – this is exactly what the C40 suggests when looking at the specifications.

Another interesting novelty XC40 Recharge, a compact crossover that is harmonious in urban environments and caring for the planet. The heart of the crossover has become a combination especially appreciated among autolady – excellent handling and responsible attitude to the environment. At the same time, the power reserve is sufficient so as not to limit yourself on trips out of town. Under the condition of daily driving, charging will only be required a few times a week.

The most fashionable accessory

An electric car is as good and fashionable an investment as a Hermès bag. The expressive and balanced design of Volvo models attracts attention. A kaleidoscope of colors and a wide range of finishes allow the owner to express their own unique style, and the car itself to become the calling card of its mistress.

Add to this high-quality eco-coverings in the cabin – an important detail for those who move around the city exclusively in a car and want to create a comfortable and safe space around them. Volvo’s electric car infotainment system is compatible with Google, so you never have to leave your familiar apps that make your journey more comfortable: listen to podcasts, turn on your playlist, repeat affirmations or learn languages.

And a little more about the practical side of the issue. The drive of electric cars is simple and reliable in comparison with classical counterparts in cars with an internal combustion engine. Electric cars are very quiet, which is especially convenient for trips with small children – nothing will disturb sleeping babies. The cost of electricity is more democratic compared to the cost of classic types of automotive fuel, which can significantly reduce the regular costs of a car.