Volvo Cars is rolling out its first ever over-the-air (OTA) software update on the XC40 Recharge, which went on sale in the UK last year and is the company’s first fully electric car.
The Swedish firm’s first pure-electric model is based on the popular XC40 SUV, and features a 78 kWh battery, powering a pair of electric motors. These are placed on each axle for all-wheel drive, and combine to produce 300 kW (402 hp).
XC40 Recharge drivers across Europe will soon receive a range of updates, including new features and improvements to the car’s infotainment and propulsion systems. The introduction of OTA updates means XC40 customers no longer have to visit a workshop in order to update to the latest software and features.
The most significant features included in the update are a new base software for the car’s main electronic systems, an increase in charging speed and an improved driving range.
There are also updates to the Android Automotive operating system that powers the car’s infotainment system. On top of this, the software package also includes updates to Bluetooth connectivity, climate timers, the car’s digital owner’s manual and the 360-degree camera.
Volvo has already claimed that the XC40 Recharge, the first of five electric models to be launched over the next few years, is one of the safest cars on the road. OTA capability means that a new Volvo is able to improve over time as additional updates are launched.
Henrik Green, Chief Technology Officer at Volvo Cars, said:
“The benefits of over-the-air updates are obvious. Yesterday, you still had to drive to the workshop to get the latest updates to your car; today, you simply click OK and your electric Volvo takes care of the rest. It couldn’t be easier.”
Volvo Cars, founded in 1927, has been under the ownership of Zhejiang Geely Holding since 2010. In 2020, it saw sales of 661,713 cars in about 100 countries, a decline of 6.2 per cent compared to 2019.
The update is available automatically and drivers of the XC40 Recharge only have to accept the download and installation.
