General information on charging

Updated 15/11/2023

An electrically powered car is driven in the same way as a car with internal combustion engine, but certain functions differ. The car is equipped with a rechargeable high voltage battery 1.

Different types of charging

The time it takes for the high voltage battery to be charged depends on the charging power that is used. The 12 V battery is also charged when the car is charged.

Charging via a wall socket (AC charging)

The car can be charged via a normal wall socket. This type of charging is suitable as an additional charging for an electric car but is not recommended for regular charging.

Charging via a charging station (AC charging)

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

Fast charging via a charging station (DC charging)

The car supports fast charging with direct current via charging stations that support the CCS (Combined Charging System) standard. A higher charging power can normally be achieved by charging with direct current, and the charging time can therefore be reduced. Highest charging power is normally reached when the battery's state of charge is 0–30%. After that, the charging power gradually decreases.

Effect of temperature

The high voltage battery with associated electrical drive systems will work better at the correct operating temperature.

High voltage battery performance may be reduced if the temperature in the battery is too low or high.

Important

The performance of the high voltage battery may be reduced if the car is left for any length of time in environments where the temperature is below –10 °C (14 °F) or above 40 °C (104 °F). Avoid the battery becoming too hot or too cold by connecting the car to a charger.

Important to know

Note

The capacity of the high voltage battery is reduced slightly with age and use.

Warning

Charging the car 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

Replacing the high voltage battery must only be performed by a workshop – an authorised Volvo workshop is recommended.

Exterior engine noise

Warning

Remember that the car does not emit any engine noise when it is only powered by an electric motor and may therefore be difficult to notice by children, pedestrians, cyclists and animals. This is especially true at low speeds, such as in car parks.

High-voltage current

Warning

Several components in the car work with high-voltage current that could be dangerous in the event of incorrect intervention. These components, and all orange-coloured cables, must only be handled by qualified personnel.

Do not touch anything that is not clearly described in the owner's manual.