Where innovation meets electrification

Charging in a lab environment

Volvo Cars' new charging centre tests Volvo cars on a regular basis to ensure that customers have the smoothest and safest charging experience possible.

In the heart of Volvo Cars Torslanda, there is a building that looks like a modern garage at first glance. In secluded chambers, test versions of electric Volvo Cars are parked. Around the cars, engineers are sitting with computers. In one room, you’ll find a full-size Volvo skeleton of wires and electronics.

“This is what a Volvo car looks like if you take away everything except electricity and communication. It says something about how advanced our cars are today,” says Daniel Lundberg, Team Manager at Volvo Cars and one of the brains behind the company's new charging centre.

Previously, Daniel developed Volvo Cars' successful diesel cars. Today, it's electrification that counts.

“We started building in February 2021 and are beta-testing while it's being completed. Many within the company are very curious about what we're doing. There's a knock on the door all the time. This lab is exactly what we need.”

The charging centre has given Volvo Cars new opportunities to test the charging of the car's batteries, all in order to create the smoothest charging experience for the customer as possible.

"Previously, we tested cars in extreme conditions. Now, we replicate those scenarios and continually enhance software for our customers' charging comfort,"

“Our charging centre is here to create the smoothest charging experience for the customer as possible,” says Daniel Lundberg, Team manager at Volvo Cars.

Innovating Through Rigorous Testing

One room simulates extreme temperatures, ranging from minus 30 to plus 60 degrees. Nearby, a 350 kW ABB high-power charger stands ready. The focus isn't solely on charging stations but on testing the car itself.

"We scrutinize cooling loops, fans, and control systems—fostering an environment for rigorous validation and battery temperature control," says Adrian Thuresson, a system architect at Volvo Cars.

Collaborating with Google, Volvo Cars aims to predict range and energy consumption, ensuring optimal routes and charging suggestions for customers.

"Our aim is to streamline your charging experience—from payment methods to time spent at the station," Adrian emphasizes.

“Everyday life is complicated enough. Charging shouldn't be something you need to worry about,” says Daniel.

Field testing around the world

Even though the lab makes development easier, both cars and charging stations must be tested around the world. Field testing is carried out continuously in the US, Asia, and Europe. Just in Europe, over 150–200 types of charging stations are tested for seamless compatibility.

"We're passionate about refining charging experiences," says Daniel. "This lab is where we innovate, integrating cars into customers' lives. In the next five years, expect this to be just a small part of a larger charging center. The excitement lies in what's to come."

"Exciting times ahead, indeed," Daniel concludes with a smile.