Volvo and Polestar Will Add a Range Assistant App in an Over-The-Air-Update

• This update will add many features aimed at increasing the range and making charging more convenient

• This update will be available for all Polestar 2 and Volvo XC40 Recharge models, and it will come pre-installed on the Volvo C40 Recharge

• Some bug fixes and improvements to safety features are also part of the update

Volvo and Polestar are making use of the Over-The-Air-Update (OTA) capabilities of their fully electric models to launch a new app made to optimise the vehicle’s range.

Both companies are part of the Geely umbrella, thus the Polestar 2 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge share the same mechanical elements and the same software.

This new update will release a new in-car app that will be installed on the Android-based Google infotainment system.

This app will be called range assistant and its function will be to help drivers optimise the range of their vehicle by giving them a clear estimate of their remaining driving range and which functions affect it.

The system will also provide drivers with tips to adapt their driving style in order to make the most of the charge that’s left in their battery.

The app also comes with a new eco climate mode that will adjust the climate control system in order to limit its energy consumption, which will allow for less charging stops on longer trips.

Other changes that will be part of the update include improvements in the battery management system, in the regenerative braking feature and in the battery precondition timer, which will all contribute to increase the range of the vehicles.

The battery precondition timer works by maintaining the temperature of the battery pack to the optimal level for charging and driving. The timers will be adjustable so that drivers will be able to program their expected departure times in order to have the battery at its optimal temperature by then.

In addition, when the destination set on the navigation system is a fast-charging station, the car will automatically preheat the battery shortly before arriving in order to speed up charge times.