Volvo 240R EV Study Challenges Electric Performance | Carscoops

      This independent project pays tribute to the high-performance Volvos of yesteryear while suggesting a new styling direction for the brand's future.

      

      24 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      The Volvo 240R is an independent concept for both a high-performance sedan and wagon.

      It combines the iconic boxy form of the classic Volvo 200 Series with contemporary design characteristics.

      The project was developed by independent designer Jordan Rubinstein-Towler.

      Polestar has evolved significantly from its inception as Volvo’s performance division, transforming into a standalone electric vehicle manufacturer. However, this change prompts an important question: Will future Volvo models feature high-performance variants akin to BMW’s M division or Mercedes’ AMG lineup? Independent designer Jordan Rubinstein-Towler has explored this notion with his creation, the 240R, a high-performance, retro-futuristic interpretation of his own Volvo 240 concept.

      

      A Nod to the Past with a Twist

      Staying true to the original design study’s essence, the Volvo 240R fuses the recognizable boxy form of the old 200 Series with modern aesthetics. The R variant incorporates a sporty body kit—featuring more robust bumpers, side skirts, a discreet diffuser, and a ducktail spoiler. It’s as if the 240 underwent a rigorous workout while maintaining its classic character.

      More: Modern Volvo 240 Design Study Proves Boxy Can Be Sexy Again

      The visuals clearly illustrate this balance. Rubinstein-Towler's design achieves an ideal combination of black and body-colored accents on the refreshed components, creating a look that is both classic and contemporary. To highlight the performance aspect, the car is fitted with new black five-spoke alloy wheels as a nod to Volvo’s sporty lineage.

      In one rendering, the sedan is depicted alongside a Volvo 240 racer that achieved considerable success in touring car competitions during the ’80s. Similarly, the wagon is paired with the Volvo 850 R from the mid-90s.

      Modern Interior, Retro Vibes

      The 240R’s appeal extends beyond its exterior; Rubinstein-Towler has also enhanced the interior. Standout features include blue upholstery that adds a pop of color to the retro-style bucket seats, along with a redesigned steering wheel. The digital cockpit, while modernized, maintains a minimalist approach with smaller displays complemented by physical controls for a tactile experience on the center console.

      Illustrations by Jordan Rubinstein-Towler

      Power to Match the Looks?

      If this car were to enter production, what kind of power would drive this contemporary version of the classic ‘brick’? Since this modern reinterpretation of the Volvo 240 is envisioned as an electric vehicle, the (fictional) 240R would presumably utilize a zero-emission powertrain.

      A quick glance into the Geely parts bin—Volvo’s parent company—indicates that a high-performance electric vehicle is quite feasible. For example, the Twin Motor Performance variant of the new Volvo ES90 delivers a remarkable combined output of 671 hp (680 PS / 500 kW). That’s ample power for both a high-performance sedan and wagon.

      Speaking of the ES90, the electric liftback sedan recently launched as a direct competitor to the BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE. According to Rubinstein-Towler’s renderings, his 240R concept could potentially fit below that model, filling the void anticipated from the soon-to-be-retired S60/V60.

      More: Volvo Doesn’t Need Wagons Anymore, Says SUVs Are The Future

      Such a vehicle would compete with the impending BMW Neue Klasse i3 and the electric Mercedes C-Class. BMW M has already hinted at a high-performance edition of the electric sedan, while Mercedes is also expected to unveil an AMG version in due time.

      Hopefully, Volvo’s design team is taking note of the creative concepts emerging from independent designers. They might draw inspiration for future models, assuming they aren’t too preoccupied with making their SUVs even more prevalent.

      Illustrations by Jordan Rubinstein-Towler