Volvo is launching four new flexifuel versions of its C30, S40 V50 and V70 for UK customers this summer.

The flexifuel engines that run on E85 bioethanol fuel are available to order in the C30 SportsCoupe, S40 saloon and V50 Sportswagon, with first customer deliveries in July. A FlexiFuel engine will also be introduced in the new V70 estate, arriving in the UK before the end of the year.

Stuart Kerr, managing director, Volvo Car UK, said: “Bioethanol reduces man’s dependency on fossil fuels and Volvo’s flexifuel programme makes a vital contribution to the company’s strategy of environmental sustainability.”

The Volvo C30 SportsCoupe, S40 saloon and V50 Sportswagon flexifuel models are based on the 1.8-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine producing 123bhp, with five-speed manual transmission. The V70 flexifuel will be powered with a 143bhp four-cylinder petrol unit. The flexifuel range will start at £17,795 for the C30 1.8F SE3.

Volvo said it recognises that demand in the UK for flexifuel is limited, so only predicts global sales of 7,000 flexifuel models this year. Most are expected to be sold in Sweden, with the UK accounting for 50 to 100 units.

The C3, S40, V50 and V70 are now available with a flexifuel engines.