Volvo tests C30 EV

Swedish brand Volvo has further widened the diversity of alternative powertrains for its C30 junior hatch with the announcement that it's testing a full four-seat all-electric version The company has already committted its 99g/km C30 1.6D DRIVe diesel to market, with a plug-in hybrid version scheduled for release in 2012.

The C30 Battery Electric Vehicle's (BEV) lithium-ion battery gives it a range of up to 150km at a speeds of up to 130km/h. Volvo claims 0-100km/h in "less than 11 seconds". Recharging the power pack from empty via a standard 230V/16A domestic power socket takes about eight hours.

The BEV's main selling proposition lies in the way it's laid out, with the electric motor under the bonnet, just like the engine in a conventional car. The chief focus of current testing lies with where to place the battery – Volvo is looking towards the transmission tunnel area and in place of the petrol car's fuel tank. Important to Volvo is that both those locations reside within the car's crumple zone.

One criterion for battery placement is paramount. "Unlike some battery-powered cars," says Volvo in a clear swipe at competitor BMW's MINI E, "the Volvo C30 BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) features the same safety, comfort and space as the standard car, including four seats."

The MINI E sacrifices its entire rear seat area to its power pack.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at www.carsales.mobi