Volvo Cars has launched new long-range plug-in hybrid versions of its best-selling XC60 and XC90 SUVs for European and American markets, extending electric driving range to as much as 200 kilometers for the XC60 and 160 kilometers for the XC90 on a single charge.
The new models represent Volvo’s first long-range plug-in hybrids for these markets and form part of the automaker’s strategy to bridge customers toward a fully electric lineup.
According to Volvo, the increased range should allow many owners to complete daily commutes, school runs and shorter weekend trips primarily on battery power while retaining a gasoline engine for longer journeys.
Electric range for both SUVs is now more than two-and-a-half times greater than that of the existing plug-in hybrid versions. The improvement comes from a larger floor-integrated battery and a more powerful electric motor, while the gasoline engine remains available when additional range is required. Both the XC60 and XC90 will also continue to be offered as mild hybrids.
The XC60, Volvo Cars’ best-selling model of all time, also receives a substantial design and technology update.
Exterior changes include a redesigned front and rear, a new grille, revised front bumper and bonnet, updated front wings and new wheel designs. Volvo has also refreshed its Thor’s Hammer Matrix LED headlights and redesigned the tailgate, rear LED lamps and bumper.
Inside, the XC60 gains a redesigned dashboard and door panels along with new wood trim and available Cardamom ventilated Nappa leather. An upgraded interior lighting system is intended to strengthen the SUV’s Scandinavian-inspired cabin design.
Volvo is also adding its latest active safety technology to the XC60.
The vehicle can warn the driver and intervene when it detects certain collision risks through capabilities including automatic emergency steering and automatic emergency braking. It can also warn occupants about an approaching cyclist before a door is opened.
An upgraded suite of radars, cameras and other sensors supports features including lane change assistance and a 360-degree camera with 3D view.
The XC60’s infotainment system centers on an 11.2-inch display running the latest Volvo Car UX.
Google Gemini is also being integrated into the vehicle, allowing drivers to interact with the car using natural language for tasks such as trip planning, finding destinations and managing messages.
The seven-seat XC90 retains its focus on safety, comfort and premium family transportation while receiving the new long-range plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Its interior continues to emphasize Scandinavian styling and premium materials, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system available. The XC90 will also incorporate Google Gemini.
Volvo views the expanded plug-in hybrid lineup as an important part of both its electrification strategy and its near-term sales and profitability plans.
The company said the new variants provide an efficient way to extend the relevance of two of its most established SUVs while offering customers who are not yet ready for a fully electric vehicle substantially more electric-only driving capability.
The XC60 will sit alongside the fully electric EX60, giving Volvo a broader range of electrified options in the midsize SUV market.
Both the new XC60 and XC90 will also receive regular over-the-air software updates, allowing Volvo to add or improve functionality after vehicles have been delivered.
Order books for the new XC60 and XC90, including Black Edition variants, are now open in selected markets. Production is scheduled to begin later in the autumn.
Volvo noted that the announced electric ranges are preliminary figures based on WLTP testing. Actual range can vary depending on factors including vehicle configuration, battery charge and temperature, weather, terrain, driving style and speed.
KEY QUOTES:
“The XC60 is our best-selling model of all time, while the XC90 marked the beginning of our premium journey. Now, as long-range plug-in hybrids, they build on those legacies and, together with the all-electric EX60, give us our strongest-ever electrified offering in the mid-size SUV segment. This means a path to full electrification for every customer.”
Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Cars
