The Volvo Recharge is not a single engine but a family of plug-in hybrid electric powertrains introduced in 2021. It combines a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0L inline-four petrol engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, delivering combined outputs of up to 340 kW (462 PS) and torque exceeding 709 Nm for enhanced performance and zero-emission driving. This system prioritizes electrified mobility while retaining the drivability expected of a premium vehicle.
Fitted to models such as the S60, V60, XC40, and XC60, the Recharge architecture was engineered for drivers seeking strong acceleration, quiet operation in EV mode, and extended range for daily use. Emissions compliance was achieved through direct injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and regenerative braking, allowing all production units to meet Euro 6d standards.
One documented concern is high-voltage battery degradation under extreme thermal conditions, highlighted in Volvo Technical Information System Bulletin TIB 100 45 018. This issue stems from prolonged exposure to ambient temperatures above 35°C or frequent DC fast charging cycles, accelerating cell aging. Volvo introduced revised thermal management algorithms and updated battery module cooling channels in late 2022 production to mitigate this vulnerability.
Production years 2021–present meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7894).
The Volvo Recharge is a plug-in hybrid electric powertrain system engineered for compact and mid-size premium vehicles (2021–present). It integrates a turbo- and supercharged 2.0L petrol engine with an electric motor and a dedicated high-voltage battery to deliver combined performance and low emissions. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances electric-only capability with extended-range hybrid operation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| System configuration | Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) | |
| Internal combustion engine | 2.0L Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged and supercharged | |
| Electric motor power | 80–100 kW (109–136 PS) | |
| Combined power output | 230–340 kW (313–462 PS) | |
| Combined torque | 500–709 Nm | |
| Battery capacity | 11.6 kWh (usable), 18.3 kWh (total) | |
| Battery type | Lithium-ion, nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) | |
| EV range (WLTP) | 40–50 km | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Cooling system | Dual-loop liquid-cooled (engine + battery) | |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic (Aisin) | |
| Charging | AC: 3.7 kW; DC: up to 150 kW (fast charging via CCS) | |
| Oil type (ICE) | Volvo 0W-20 (VCC 9570110) | |
| System weight | Approx. 220 kg (battery + power electronics) |
The Recharge system delivers seamless transition between electric and combustion modes, ideal for urban commuting and long-distance touring, but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Volvo 0W-20 specification to protect the dual-charged petrol engine. The lithium-ion battery demands avoidance of sustained high-state-of-charge (>90%) during prolonged storage and minimization of DC fast charging frequency to preserve longevity. Regenerative braking systems require periodic calibration to maintain efficiency. High-voltage system maintenance must be performed only by certified technicians due to safety protocols.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo 0W-20 (VCC 9570110) specification (TIB 100 45 018). Supersedes ACEA C6 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2021–present models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7894). No market-specific variations exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under WLTP standards. Combined outputs assume full battery charge and optimal thermal conditions (Volvo TIS Doc. A71126).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A71126, TIB 100 45 018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7894)
WLTP Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
The Volvo Recharge powertrain was used across Volvo's S60/V60/XC40/XC60 platforms with longitudinal mounting and licensed exclusively to Volvo Group. This system received platform-specific adaptations-revised battery pack geometry for the XC40 and reinforced chassis mounts for the XC60-and from 2023 the facelifted models adopted updated software for predictive energy management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the Recharge badge on the front fender and rear quarter panel. The 7th VIN digit indicates powertrain family ('H' for Recharge T8). All current production units feature a black plastic lower grille with integrated charging port cover. Critical differentiation from B4204T29: The Recharge T8 uses a supercharged and turbocharged engine paired with a dedicated high-voltage battery and rear-mounted electric motor; the B4204T29 is a pure petrol engine without hybrid components. Service parts require exact production date verification - battery modules for pre-2023 units must be replaced with the revised thermal design per TIB 100 45 018.
The Recharge's primary reliability risk is high-voltage battery degradation under extreme thermal stress, with elevated incidence in vehicles operated primarily in hot climates or subjected to frequent DC fast charging. Volvo internal repair statistics from 2023 indicated nearly 8% of Recharge-equipped vehicles over 80,000 km exhibited reduced EV range due to cell imbalance, while UK DVSA MOT records show battery-related fault codes accounted for 6% of diagnostic rejections in this system. Sustained high state-of-charge and rapid charging accelerate aging, making thermal management and charging habits critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2021–2024) and UK DVSA MOT failure statistics (2022–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO RECHARGE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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