2020 Volvo XC40 Electric sketched out, includes ‘frunk’

Externally the electric XC40 will feature a cleaner rear bumper design as it has no need for tailpipes, while the covered up grille has plenty of space to hide the sensors required for the car's new Advanced Driver Assistance System.

Interestingly, the XC40 Electric includes a "frunk" or front trunk, a small storage space under the bonnet most commonly seen on EVs riding on a dedicated electric car platform.

Like the Polestar 2, the XC40 Electric uses a modified version of the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) that also supports traditional internal-combustion engines and plug-in hybrid drivetrains.

Volvo has yet to announce details about the electric XC40's drivetrain, but it will likely be a bit less attention grabbing than that of the Polestar 2, which has 300kW/660Nm from its two electric motors and a 78kWh battery for a expected range of around 500 kilometres.

The Swedish automaker has confirmed the electric crossover will feature eight paint choices (including a new Sage metallic green), a contrasting black roof as standard, and new 19- and 20-inch alloy wheel designs.

To further its green credentials, the XC40 Electric will also include carpets made from recycled materials.

Australia

The company's local arm has confirmed it plans to launch the XC40 Electric, as well as the XC40 T5 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, towards the end of 2020.