Electric Cars

Volvo has made the official announcement regarding the discontinuation of its EX40 electric compact luxury SUV, confirming that the 2026 model will be the final iteration offered in the United States. This decision stems from the electric model's considerably lower sales figures compared to its conventionally-powered sibling, the XC40, which recently underwent a refresh for the 2028 model year. Although the EX40 designation had a brief two-year lifespan, the vehicle was initially introduced and sold as the XC40 Recharge for four years prior. The move signals a strategic shift in Volvo's electric vehicle lineup, with anticipation building for a rumored successor that promises enhanced features and a more competitive price point.

The cancellation of the EX40, while a notable change, aligns with market dynamics where the traditional XC40 has maintained a dominant sales position. The EX40, known for its dual-motor all-wheel-drive option delivering 402 horsepower, offered a blend of luxury and performance that was well-received by those who experienced it. Despite its strengths, the model struggled to capture a significant market share against its fossil-fueled counterpart. However, this departure paves the way for the expected arrival of the EX50, a larger electric SUV built on Volvo's new SPA3 platform, aiming to provide a more spacious and economically accessible option to consumers.

The End of the EX40 Era and Its Market Performance

The Volvo EX40 electric compact luxury SUV, after a relatively short tenure under its current designation, has been officially retired from the U.S. market, with the 2026 model serving as its swansong. This strategic decision by the automaker reflects the significant sales disparity between the electric EX40 and its well-established gasoline-powered sibling, the XC40, which continues to see robust demand and recently received a design update for the 2028 model year. Despite the EX40's brief official branding, the vehicle had been available for several years prior under the XC40 Recharge nameplate, accumulating a history that showcased its Scandinavian luxury and impressive performance capabilities, particularly in its higher-powered dual-motor configurations.

The EX40, whether known as itself or the XC40 Recharge, consistently offered a compelling package, blending elegant design with powerful electric propulsion, particularly the dual-motor variants that delivered a robust 402 horsepower. Its discontinuation, while marking the end of an era for this specific model, is largely driven by its inability to outsell the XC40, suggesting a market preference for the gasoline model or perhaps a need for a different approach in Volvo's electric compact SUV segment. This move, however, sets the stage for an exciting future development: the rumored EX50. This anticipated successor is expected to be larger, more cost-effective, and built on an advanced platform, positioning it to potentially achieve broader market appeal and fill the void left by the EX40, aligning with Volvo's broader electrification strategy.

Anticipating the EX50: Volvo's Next Electric Compact SUV

Following the strategic discontinuation of the EX40 electric compact luxury SUV, Volvo is reportedly gearing up for the introduction of a new electric model, the EX50, which is poised to become its successor. While details remain speculative, reports suggest the EX50 will build upon the foundation laid by the EX40, aiming to address some of the market challenges faced by its predecessor. The new model is expected to feature a larger footprint and an enticingly lower starting price point of approximately $40,000, signaling Volvo's intent to capture a wider segment of the electric vehicle market. This move underscores the brand's ongoing commitment to electric mobility, learning from past models to refine its future offerings.

The rumored EX50 is anticipated to debut in the fall of 2027, likely as a 2028 model, and will be constructed on Volvo's innovative SPA3 platform. This architectural shift is not only expected to contribute to its increased dimensions in terms of length and height but also to facilitate manufacturing efficiencies that could enable its more competitive pricing. The EX40, despite its "dual nature" of genuine Scandinavian luxury and spirited performance, particularly in its 402-horsepower dual-motor guise, struggled against its gasoline-powered twin. The EX50, therefore, represents Volvo's refined vision for an electric compact SUV, one that aims for greater market penetration through enhanced practicality, improved cost-efficiency, and leveraging a new, more advanced platform to meet evolving consumer demands in the rapidly expanding EV landscape.

Mercedes-AMG has unleashed an extraordinary new coupe, the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung, a vehicle already spoken for with all 30 units sold out. This exclusive model marks the second entry in Mercedes' ultra-luxury, limited-production Mythos sub-brand, which debuted in 2022, signifying a commitment to unparalleled automotive craftsmanship and performance for a select few.

The heart of the CLE 646 is a formidable 637-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter flat-plane-crank V8 engine, channeling its immense power to the rear wheels through a sophisticated nine-speed AMG Speedshift transmission. This powertrain generates 627 pound-feet of torque, complemented by a high-performance exhaust system co-developed with Akrapovič, delivering an exhilarating auditory experience. Equipped with a Launch Control system optimized for its rear-wheel-drive configuration, this Mythos creation boasts impressive acceleration: it sprints from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds, reaches 124 mph in 11.4 seconds, and achieves 186 mph in 36.8 seconds, culminating in a top speed of 193 mph.

Beyond its raw power, the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is meticulously engineered for dynamic performance. It features a custom steel-sprung coilover suspension with four-way adjustable dampers, providing a lower ride height by 0.9 inches at the front and 0.6 inches at the rear for enhanced stability. Braking is handled by robust 16.5-inch front and 14.2-inch rear ceramic brakes, paired with six- and single-piston calipers, respectively, nestled behind 20-inch wheels. The vehicle's exterior showcases a heavily modified body, 2.4 inches wider than the standard CLE 53, and a significant weight reduction of 375 pounds achieved through extensive use of carbon fiber in components like the fenders, front fascia, side sills, hood, roof, and rear bumper. An advanced aerodynamics package generates over 550 pounds of downforce at its peak speed, featuring an adjustable front diffuser, fender louvers for improved airflow, integrated channels near the headlights, and an adjustable rear wing. Inside, the focus on weight savings continues with the removal of rear seats, acoustic insulation, and several driver-assistance functions, along with a simplified sound system. The cabin is outfitted with ultra-lightweight bucket seats, carbon-fiber door panels, and a roll bar, further emphasizing its track-ready nature. Even the rear side and back windows are crafted from polycarbonate, underscoring the extreme measures taken to minimize mass. An optional Performance Package offers six-point harnesses, while the exterior boasts a distinctive faded paint finish, transitioning from Mojave Silver Magno at the front to Obsidian Black Magno at the B-Pillar.

The introduction of the Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung exemplifies automotive engineering at its pinnacle, seamlessly blending aggressive power with sophisticated design and cutting-edge aerodynamics. It's a testament to what's achievable when performance and exclusivity are prioritized, pushing the boundaries of what a road-legal coupe can be.