COPENHAGEN, March 3 Reuters Swedenbased Volvo Car AB said on Friday sales grew 22 yearonyear in February to 51,286 cars helped by a jump for its recharge models, sending its shares up.

Volvo Cars, which is majorityowned by China39;s Geely Holding, said in a statement sales of fully electric cars soared 187 to account for 19 of total sales.

All recharge models, also including those not fully electric, were up 49 to account for 40 of total sales.

Volvo Cars39; shares rose 3 in early trade.

In January, the group39;s total car sales were up 2 as they were held back in China by Chinese New Year calendar effects. In February, sales in China were up 50.

In biggest market Europe, sales were up 9 in February.

Reporting by Louise Breusch Rasmussen, editing by Anna Ringstrom

Source Reuters