Charging Comparison
DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense vs Volvo EC40
Compared variants: Standard vs Single Motor ER
Updated April 2026
Data shown is approximate and based on publicly available specifications and real-world estimates. For models with multiple battery versions, this page compares the variants listed above. Actual performance varies with driving conditions, temperature, state of charge, and charger hardware. Always check the manufacturer specification page and your vehicle's manual for official figures. EVcourse is not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer.
Quick verdict
The Volvo EC40 has the higher published DC fast-charging figure at 200 kW, while the DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense is more efficient at approximately 169 Wh/km. The Volvo EC40 offers more WLTP rated range at 500 km.
Side-by-Side Specs
| Spec | DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense | Volvo EC40 |
|---|---|---|
| Compared variant | Standard | Single Motor ER |
| Battery (approx.) | ~51 kWh | ~79 kWh |
| WLTP range (rated) | ~394 km | ~500 km |
| Efficiency (approx.) | ~169 Wh/km | ~188 Wh/km |
| DC fast charging (published) | up to 100 kW | up to 200 kW |
| 10-80% charge time (approx.) | ~30 min | ~28 min |
| Max AC charging | up to 11 kW | up to 11 kW |
| DC connector | CCS2 | CCS2 |
Charging Speed
The Volvo EC40 has the higher published DC fast-charging figure at 200 kW, which is roughly 100% higher than the DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense at 100 kW. In practice, that figure only tells part of the story. The charging curve, battery temperature, and state of charge all affect how quickly your car actually charges.
For the 10-80% charge (the most common DC fast charging scenario), the Volvo EC40 finishes in about 28 minutes, which is 2 minutes quicker than the DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense at 30 minutes. On a road trip, that difference adds up over multiple stops.
Range and Efficiency
The Volvo EC40 has a WLTP rated range of approximately 500 km, which is roughly 106 km more than the DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense at approximately 394 km. WLTP is a standardized lab test. Expect your actual range to be lower, varying with speed, weather, terrain, and driving style.
Efficiency matters more than battery size for daily driving costs. The DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense consumes 169 Wh/km, compared to 188 Wh/km for the Volvo EC40. That means the DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense uses less energy per kilometer, which translates to lower charging costs and fewer charging stops on longer drives.
A more efficient car does not always mean more range. Battery size plays a role too. The Volvo EC40 has approximately 79 kWh of useable battery , while the DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense has approximately 51 kWh.
Which One Should You Choose?
If fast charging is your priority, the Volvo EC40 has the higher published DC figure (up to 200 kW) while matching the quickest published 10-80% time at approximately 28 minutes. For long road trips, published stop time matters more than the headline kW number alone.
Both cars support 11 kW AC charging, so home and workplace charging speeds will be similar.
If you mostly charge at home or at work and care more about daily driving costs, the DS Automobiles 3 E-Tense is the more efficient choice at 169 Wh/km. Lower consumption means lower electricity bills over time.
For maximum range between charges, the Volvo EC40 has a WLTP rated range of approximately 500 km, which is roughly 106 km more. Both are capable EVs. The best choice depends on how you charge and how far you drive.
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From Finn, engineer: Charging specs alone do not tell the full story. Real-world charging speed depends on battery temperature, state of charge, and the charger itself. These comparisons use manufacturer-published data. Approximate values only.
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