The Volvo C30 may be on its way out, but one version looks to soldier on. That's the C30 Electric, which Volvo has just upgraded with new technology that could make EV transportation that much more feasible. The Generation II C30 Electric incorporates an electric motor developed through a collaboration with Siemens. The motor produces 120 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, enabling the electric hatchback to reach 70 km/h (43 mph) in 5.9 seconds.

If that strikes you as an odd time to quote, it could be because the C30 Electric is meant primarily for urban use, not inter-city travel, and is being leased to European consumers. The bigger news, though, is how fast the C30 Electric can charge. With a new 22kW three-phase quick-charger on board, the C30 Electric can charge from empty to full in just 1.5 hours – a process that normally takes a good 8 to 10 hours. The full charge will take you 164 km (over 100 miles), but if that's not quick enough, a 10-minute quickie charge will take the car a good 12.4 km (12.4 miles).