Volvo Cars has introduced what it calls its first long-range plug-in hybrids for Europe and the United States, based on its two best-selling SUVs. The company says the updated XC60 covers up to 200 km (124 miles) on electricity alone, while the larger XC90 manages up to 160 km (99 miles). The XC60 also receives a wider design and safety overhaul. Order books open today in selected markets, with production due to start later this autumn.

Volvo Cars has launched long-range plug-in hybrid versions of the XC60 and XC90, the two SUVs that carry much of its sales volume. According to the manufacturer, these are its first long-range plug-in hybrids for the European and American markets, and they are intended to act as a bridge while the brand works towards an all-electric line-up.

Electric range more than doubled

The mid-size XC60 is quoted at up to 200 km (124 miles) of electric range, the larger XC90 at up to 160 km (99 miles). Volvo says that is more than two and a half times the figure of the existing plug-in hybrid variants, and credits a new floor-integrated battery with greater capacity along with a more powerful electric motor. The petrol engine takes over when the battery is depleted.

The company describes the XC60’s figure as class-leading. All range numbers are preliminary and based on WLTP testing, and Volvo notes that real-world results depend on charge level, specification, temperature, weather, topography and driving style. Battery capacity, charging power, system output and pricing were not disclosed in the announcement.

Both models also stay on sale as mild hybrids, so buyers keep a choice of electrified powertrains at different price points.

“The XC60 is our best-selling model of all time, while the XC90 marked the beginning of our premium journey,” says Håkan Samuelsson, President & CEO at Volvo Cars. “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.”

A redesigned XC60 inside and out

The XC60 gets new front and rear styling, including a revised grille, reworked front bumper, bonnet and front wings, and new wheel designs. The Thor’s Hammer Matrix LED headlights carry a refreshed light signature, while the tailgate, rear lamps and rear bumper lean more heavily on horizontal lines.

Inside there is a new dashboard and door panel design, wood decor and Cardamom ventilated Nappa leather. An 11.2-inch screen runs Volvo Car UX, the company’s latest infotainment system, and Google Gemini is on board as a voice assistant for tasks such as route planning and handling messages on the move.

Safety equipment is updated too. Volvo lists automatic emergency steering, automatic emergency braking and a warning for occupants about an approaching cyclist before a door is opened, supported by an upgraded sensor set of radars and cameras. Lane change assist and a 360-degree camera with 3D view are also part of the package.

The XC90 keeps its seven seats

The seven-seat XC90 builds on its recent technology and design updates rather than receiving a full restyle. Volvo highlights the cabin materials and wood decor, an optional Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system, and the same Google Gemini assistant as the XC60.

What it means

Extending electric range on established models is a comparatively cheap way to stay competitive while full EV demand builds, and Volvo frames these cars as efficient investments in its existing line-up that should support sales and profitability for the next few years. A 200 km electric range would place the XC60 among the longest-legged plug-in hybrids on the market, and for many drivers it means commuting and school runs without using petrol at all. Both cars receive regular over-the-air updates.

Facts: Volvo XC60 and XC90 long-range plug-in hybrid

  • Electric range, XC60: up to 200 km (124 miles), preliminary WLTP
  • Electric range, XC90: up to 160 km (99 miles), preliminary WLTP
  • Battery: new floor-integrated pack with larger capacity (capacity not stated)
  • Also available as: mild hybrid
  • Infotainment: 11.2-inch screen, Volvo Car UX, Google Gemini
  • XC90 seating: seven seats
  • Price: not announced

Order books for the new XC60 and XC90, including the Black Edition, open today in selected markets, with production starting later this autumn.

Source: news.cision.com