Volvo has unveiled the world’s first on-board 22 kW fast-charger that operates on a three-phase supply and is compact enough to be fitted in a C30 Electric.

Full charge takes just 1.5 hours, compared to 8-10 hours from a single-phase 230 V household outlet. A quick 10 minute charge is enough for a 20 kilometre (12 mile) drive.

The C30 Electric is developed in partnership with Siemens and uses a 120bhp Siemens electric motor with 250Nm of torque. Acceleration 0–62mph takes 10.7 seconds and it has a top speed of 125 km/h (77mph). Total range from a full charge is up to 164 km (101 miles).

The C30 Electric will be available for European leasing customers this summer, who will drive and evaluate an upgraded demo fleet of 100 Volvo C30 fully electric cars.