Concept Recharge previews Volvo's electric future

Big things are happening at Volvo.

Apart from the brand's all-electric future, it seems their next-generation vehicles will also look quite different from today. To give us an idea of what styling direction the company will go with, Volvo revealed the Concept Recharge.

Volvo didn't go too wild in the styling department, and the changes aren't very drastic. The Concept Recharge still distinctly looks like a Volvo albeit sporting a more futuristic design. The vehicle itself carries some of the styling cues found on current models, such as the Thor Hammer headlights. Since future Volvo models will be electric, the grille is closed off, and there is only one center air intake vent.

At the rear, the thin vertical taillights from Volvo's SUVs and Wagon are carried over but now extends to the tailgate. Volvo claims these even extend at speed to improve aerodynamics. Interestingly, the Concept Recharge looks more like a wagon despite being compared to crossovers like the XC60 and XC90.

Like the exterior, the interior of the Concept Recharge takes on a minimalist design. The first thing you'll notice is the space because there's a lot. Front and center is a tablet-like display complemented by a minimalist dashboard. With no engine under the hood, Volvo was able to give the concept a large greenhouse, making it roomier.

Apart from being a design study, the Concept Recharge also uses Volvo's new EV platform. The platform used in the Concept Recharge will underpin future Volvo electric models. Unlike Volvo's existing EVs, which are still based around an architecture for combustion engines, this will be dedicated for EVs. The battery pack will be hidden underneath the floor, giving the interior a flat floor setup. Unfortunately, Volvo did not disclose details such as output and range.

Volvo did not say whether the Concept Recharge will remain a design concept or will be built in the future. However, it's likely the company's future electric SUVs will draw inspiration from this futuristic-looking concept.

What do you think? Do you like the current Volvo design more, or is the new one better?