Volvo and Polestar have announced major changes for their respective entry-level EVs. For the 2024 model year, the Volvo XC40 Recharge, the Volvo C40 Refill and the Polestar 2 will switch from traction to propulsion as the primary configuration. According to these two brands, propulsion is a logical choice given the advantages it provides in terms of energy efficiency and performance.
You have to go back to 1998 to understand Volvo’s attachment to traction. In the past, the manufacturer had mentioned that traction was safer due to its more predictable winter behavior and greater grip. It was from this moment that the manufacturer focused on vehicles that prioritized traction, but which could also be equipped with optional all-wheel drive. It is for this reason that the Polestar 2 was initially offered in a front-drive version.
But things have changed. According to Joakim Rydholm, head of dynamic development at Polestar, in an interview with Automotive News Europe, the propulsion would give more advantages for the EV. First in terms of performance, switching to rear-wheel drive would improve handling, driving feel, agility and tire grip.
The instantaneous torque would be transmitted more efficiently to the road to move the vehicle forward, especially since the base engine increases to 295 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. Such cavalry is more difficult to contain in the front, while in the rear it is easier.
Additionally, the weight distribution would benefit rear-wheel-drive electric vehicles, given that the battery already contributes to a more even front-to-rear distribution. In doing so, and in conjunction with the driving assistance systems, the propulsion would be more efficient.
The propulsion would also allow more latitude to install different accessories, or even increase the capacity of the battery, because of the better used space.
This propulsion-promoting approach aligns with most EV manufacturers with a dedicated platform, which use propulsion as a core system. We are thinking, among others, of Tesla, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, BMW, Audi and Porsche. GM, for its part with the Ultium architecture, is going for a hybrid approach with, for example, the Chevrolet Equinox EV which will offer both traction, propulsion or all-wheel drive, according to buyers.
