While we were away, the EC40 was excellent. The simplicity of the infotainment and tech suits me perfectly, and it’s a comfortable, practical car with a smooth motorway ride.
I’ve spoken with colleagues about my love of Volvo and wondered if I’m the only one. Many of them have been behind the wheel of the latest models, including the EX90. Therefore, while they agree that our EC40 ticks many boxes, they feel the infotainment and screen size seem a little dated, as does the cabin.
Advertisement – Article continues below
Happy to be behind the curve, I’m still thoroughly impressed by the understated usability of the EC40’s tech. I have everything I need in simple graphic form, with clear nav instructions, including traffic-camera warnings, plus potential time-saving detours to avoid traffic hotspots, which are indicated as amber or red sections of road.
EV charge stations are displayed in icon form, along with the number of chargers and how many are free. It’s all so easy and with an excellent instrument display ahead of me, I barely have to take my eyes from the road.
Volvo EC40 Plus: first fleetwatch
The Volvo EC40‘s smart navigation, charging information and speed camera warnings come in useful
The more time I spend behind the wheel of our Volvo EC40, the more I like its infotainment system. Navigation is clearly labelled on the 12.3-inch screen, and traffic hot-spots appear as red, with route variations and time savings marked. Charging stations are also indicated with the speed and number of chargers displayed, along with if they’re free or in use. I even get a warning for speed cameras and their location. Not that I’d ever require that function, of course.
Volvo EC40 Plus: first report
Does the Volvo EC40’s style get in the way of its substance? We find out as it joins our fleet
Advertisement – Article continues below