Yahoo Autos Volvo's Concept 40.1 and 40.2 Preview the Upcoming S40, V40, and XC40
Volvo began its big comeback with a new 90 series of cars, consisting of the XC90 SUV, S90 sedan, and V90 wagon. Phase two of its comeback plan was unveiled Wednesday with the Concepts 40.1 and 40.2 seen here, which preview its upcoming smaller 40 series of cars.
Presumably, the 40 series will be offered as sedan, SUV, and wagon like the larger 90 series. The concepts ride on Volvo's new Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform that will underpin the company's future small cars. The Concept 40.1 gives a sneak peek at the upcoming XC40, while the Concept 40.2 previews the S40.
The Volvo V40 hatchback, which is currently sold in Europe but not the U.S., has been in production since 2012, and lacks sedan and SUV companions. The last-generation S40 sedan ended production in 2012.
While Volvo only showed off two concept cars today, it did announce that it will use both all-electric and "twin-engine" hybrid drivetrains on the CMA platform. The hybrid will utilize a turbocharged three-cylinder gas engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission along with an electric motor.
The CMA platform is front-wheel-drive based, though Car reports that there will be a version with conventional all-wheel-drive, with the rear axle driven by a driveshaft. Hotter Polestar versions aren't yet confirmed, but Car indicates Volvo strongly hinted that they're in the pipeline.
The first 40 series cars are said to hit production in 2017, but the all-electric version could be further off. Volvo says its first all-electric car built on the 90 series platform will reach production in 2019, so expect the electric 40 after that.
Clearly, there are good things happening at Volvo these days. A healthy investment from Chinese parent company Geely has produced a great XC90, and these sharp concepts have us excited for the 40 series. A V40 Polestar would be sweet, so get on it, Volvo.
