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The Mini Recharged project combines the iconic original Mini with modern EV powertrains.
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The Concept Recharge’s use of recycled and sustainable materials is key to reducing Volvo’s carbon footprint.
Volvo has revealed a new concept car that shows its path to becoming a fully electric brand by 2030.
The company also says the Concept Recharge demonstrates how it will achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.
From sustainable materials to improved aerodynamics, let’s explore how Volvo wants to revolutionise car design and manufacturing.
The Concept Recharge continues the longstanding trend for SUVs, but with a lower roofline and upright tailgate. These features are intended to improve aerodynamic efficiency, allowing the vehicle to travel further when charged.
Composite materials made from flax are used for the front and rear bumpers. This leads to a significant reduction in the amount of plastics used in the Concept Recharge.
Special tyres have been developed by Pirelli for the concept car. These are said to contain no mineral oil, and are created with 94 percent fossil-free materials. Recycled elements, such as natural rubber and silica, are used instead.
Inside, there’s an array of sustainable materials, including responsibly sourced Swedish wool for the seat backrests and dashboard top. Wool carpet also features on the floor and lower door sections.
More flax is used in storage areas, with the seats and steering wheel covered in Volvo’s own ‘Nordico’ material. Made from bio-based and recycled ingredients, it has a 74 percent smaller CO2 footprint than leather.
When charged with electricity from renewable sources, Volvo claims Concept Recharge would have an overall, whole-life CO2 impact of less than 10 tonnes.
Although strictly a concept vehicle for now, elements from the Concept Recharge are likely to feature in new production electric Volvos.
