General information about charging

Updated 2023-11-15

An electric car is driven in the same way as a car with a gasoline engine, but certain functions differ. The vehicle is equipped with a rechargeable high-voltage battery 1.

Different types of charging

The hybrid battery's charging time depends on the amperage used. The 12V battery is also charged when the vehicle is charged.

Charging via wall outlet (AC charging)

The vehicle can be charged via a regular wall outlet. This type of charging is suitable as extra charging for electric vehicles but is not recommended for regular charging.

Charging via charging station (AC charging)

The charging station may be equipped with either a permanent charging cable or with a socket where a mode 3 charging cable can be plugged in. This type of charging is recommended for regular charging.

Rapid charging via charging station (DC charging)

The vehicle supports rapid charging with direct current (DC) at charging stations supporting the CCS (Combined Charging System) standard. Charging with direct current usually enables higher charging output and thereby shorter charging times. The highest charging output is normally achieved when the charge level of the battery is 0–30%, after which the charging output gradually decreases.

Effect of temperature

The hybrid battery with associated electrical drive system as well as gasoline engine and its drive system, work better when they are at the correct operating temperature.

The high-voltage battery may have reduced performance if the temperature in the battery is too low or too high.

Important

Leaving the vehicle for prolonged periods at temperatures under –10 °C (14 °F) or over 40 °C (104 °F) may reduce the performance of the high-voltage battery. Charging the vehicle can help prevent the battery from becoming too hot or too cold.

Important

Note

The capacity of the high-voltage battery decreases somewhat with age and use.

Warning

California Proposition 65

Operating, servicing and maintaining a passenger vehicle can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine except as necessary, service your vehicle in a well ventilated area and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when servicing your vehicle. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/passenger-vehicle.

Warning

Charging the vehicle can affect the function of an implanted pacemaker or other medical equipment. People with an implanted pacemaker are recommended to consult a doctor before starting charging.

Warning

If the high-voltage battery needs to be replaced, this may only be done by Volvo retailer or authorized Volvo workshop.

Exterior engine noise

Note

When the electric motor is in use, an artificial exterior sound will play in the background. This sound is intended to help warn children, pedestrians, cyclists, animals, etc. outside the vehicle of the vehicle's approach.

High-voltage electrical current

Warning

The electrical system in your vehicle uses high-voltage electrical current. Any damage to this system or to the high-voltage battery may result in the danger of overheating, fire, or serious injury. If the vehicle is involved in a collision or subjected to flooding, fire, etc., have it inspected by a trained and qualified Volvo service technician. Prior to this inspection, the vehicle should be parked outdoors at a safe distance from any building or potentially flammable materials.

Warning

A number of electrical components in the vehicle use high-voltage current and can be extremely dangerous if handled incorrectly. These components and any orange wiring in the vehicle may only be handled by trained and qualified Volvo service technicians.

Do not touch anything that is not clearly described in this Owner's Manual.