Volvo plans for an all-electric XC90

The third generation of Volvo X90 will step deep into electrification with plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid powertrains as standard, as per reports from the Autocar. The reports also claim the redesigned XC90 to feature an updated version of the SPA architecture, slated to underpin next-generation S60 / V60 and S90 / V90.

Previously, the second-generation XC90 received a facelift in 2019. The present year marks the second-generation model’s run for seven years.

While confirming the news about their upcoming offering, Hakan Samuelsson, Volvo CEO said: “This car [next XC90> will be fully electric and built in South Carolina. Using SPA2, it will have such functionality that will improve every product development.” Hakan also added, “it will be a premium car with a very advanced cruise control system, which you could call highway pilot.” 

The USP of the third-gen XC90 will be its autonomous driving technology, on which the company has been working for years. As per the CEO, the innovation of Volvo will be allowing ‘full hands-off’ and ‘eyes-off’ driving. However, the reports suggest that autonomous driving technology will only work on the highway and won’t be a valid Level 5 system.

Interestingly, the CEO also revealed about the expansion of their 40-series lineup with smaller models, due to take the place of the XC40. The news points towards the upcoming 40-series model to be a sedan, hatchback or wagon. 

With no comments by the automaker on the powertrain of the upcoming vehicle so far, the third-generation XC90 is expected to make its debut in 2021, being available for sale by 2020.

Lastly, Volvo plans to launch one new electric vehicle every year until 2025 in its current five-year plans and aims to generate 50 percent of sales via fully electric models. 

Also read: Volvo bets a million dollars on safety at the Super Bowl LIV