Volvo is recalibrating its electric vehicle (EV) strategy in response to the challenges facing the automotive industry.
Ambitious Goal Unfeasible
With the launch of the new XC90, executives at the Swedish carmaker have acknowledged that the ambitious goal of transitioning to an all-electric lineup by 2030 is now unfeasible. Instead, Volvo is pivoting to a more diversified approach, introducing over 16 new models in the next eight years.
Historically, European automakers, including Volvo, have been unwavering in their commitment to electrification. However, the evolving landscape for zero-emission vehicles has compelled a reevaluation of these plans, according to Motor.
Initially, Volvo intended to phase out traditional combustion engines by 2030 while continuing to release electric models, a strategy that began with the cessation of diesel production earlier this year.
Two Models Each Year
Now, the company will continue to offer gasoline and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) alongside its electric lineup. The new strategy involves launching two models each year, although only about ten will be entirely new.
The first of these is the Volvo ES90, a high-end sedan expected to debut in late 2025, boasting an impressive range of 480 to 640 kilometers on a single charge.
In addition, the XC60 is set to evolve into an electric SUV with significant updates. Erik Severinson, Volvo's head of product strategy, emphasized the flexibility of their SPA1 platform, which allows for enhancements to create long-range PHEVs with better performance than current models.
