Volvo is currently developing the next-generation V40. The upcoming hatchback will be built on the Swedish automaker's Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), which will be able to accommodate at least two electric versions.
In the past couple of years, Volvo has released new versions of its SUVs — from the XC90 to the XC40 — as well as the S90 and V90 luxury cars. Now, the brand is in the process of updating its smaller cars, one of which is the already aging V40.
Volvo's head of research and development Henrik Green recently spoke to AutoExpress and revealed what to expect from the next-generation hatchback.
According to Green, the all-new V40 will also use CMA, Volvo's all-new platform that was launched on the XC40. Since this architecture was designed with electrification in mind, CMA provides ample space for a battery to be put on the vehicle's floor. In light of this, the Volvo executive confirmed that the upcoming hatchback will be offered with plug-in hybrid and pure-electric versions.
"For each electric car, we will typically have at least two different battery sizes on offer. The base variant will be more cost-efficient, but with a slightly limited range, and then there will be a bigger option with a higher price, but more range and more power," Green revealed.
The all-new V40 will also be available with four-cylinder diesel and three-cylinder gasoline engines.
In terms of design, the upcoming hatchback is expected to adopt styling cues and features of the XC40 as well as the Volvo Concept 40.2. However, because CMA is a flexible platform, Volvo will be able to make a few adjustments to differentiate the XC40 and the V40.
Green revealed that the V40 will be a bit wider than the XC40. They will have the same width on the front but the V40's lower roofline will translate to a more aggressive stance. Despite using the same wheelbase, the V40 will also offer more space and legroom.
The all-new Volvo V40 is expected to arrive in the United States sometime in 2019.
