It seems that even the Swedish brand Volvo lost faith in the potential of the premium hatchback segment. At least, such a conclusion can be drawn from the words of the head of the European division of the brand Lex Kersemakers, who said that the V40 model will change the body type with the release of the second generation.
The current model is not strong enough for Volvo to sell 800,000 vehicles a year, he says, and to reach that goal, the V40 needs to be replaced by something more creative. The need for future electrification also contributes to this story.
Lex Kersemakers did not directly confirm the fact that the V40 would be replaced by a coupe-like crossover, however, he announced the requirements for a new body: in addition to a creative form, it should be easy to enter and exit.
As for the electrification of the novelty, in this respect the head answered evasively: the company cannot afford to produce a car that will not be ready for it. Apparently, they will still release a hybrid first, and later a fully electric version.
At the moment, the design department is working on a new car, which will be partially unified with other models of the brand, which tells us that it will be built on one of two modular platforms - CMA or SPA.
It is worth noting that the V40 is the only model of the brand that uses the rather old Ford Global C bogie, developed in 2003.
The new car, according to the head of the European office of the brand, is worth waiting for over the next two years.
Volvo to replace V40 hatchback with 'creative body style' model
