The Future Of Volvo Is Electric And Not Far Away

As of next year, 2023, Volvo will have its full lineup of vehicles in Canada electrified with at least a mild hybrid powertrain option. And as of right now, a new and improved Recharge plug-in hybrid powertrain is available in Canada in the brand’s 90 and 60 Series models, bringing more power, more range, and reduced CO2 emissions.  

With built-in upgrades, the Extended range hybrid system boosts electric-only range on the Volvo S60, V60, XC60, S90, and XC90 Recharge models to an NRCAN estimated 58-64 km when operated in the all-electric Pure mode. This is made possible thanks to a new long-rage battery that features a triple cell layer to increase potential from 11.6 kWh to 18.8 kWh.  

The Recharge T8 AWD plug-in hybrid powertrain also comes with a significant increase in power output and drivability via a more powerful rear electric motor (65 per cent more powerful!) delivering 143 hp compared to the former 87 hp. Functioning in tandem with the triple-layer battery, the upgraded electric motor improves AWD capability to help the vehicle when it’s towing or travelling over slippery terrain, for example. 

“Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles play an important role in the shift to electrification,” said Matt Girgis, managing director, Volvo Cars Canada. “These upgraded powertrains will demonstrate the many benefits of an electric future and will serve as an enabling technology that will encourage more consumers to adopt the electric lifestyle.”

As a leader in the premium EV market, Volvo has identified the goals of selling at least 50 per cent electric vehicles by 2025, and being a fully electric car company by 2030. 

In other Volvo news, the brand has updated the look for a number of Canada-bound vehicles, including the XC40 which now features a frame-free grille plate and new headlight design, and the S60 and V60, both of which have been given new grilles and rear bumper stylings.  

Android Auto is also now available across the lineup, providing over-the-air software updates and access to the Google-powered infotainment system directly in the vehicle, without the need for a device. 

For more information on any electric or gas-powered Volvo, including the Extended range Recharge Plug-in hybrid models, or to book a test drive in the Waterloo, Ontario area, don’t hesitate to reach out to Volvo Cars Waterloo.