Volvo’s plug-in hybrid XC60 and XC90 can really go the distance
Volvo has announced updated plug-in hybrid versions of its XC60 and XC90 SUVs, featuring significantly increased electric-only ranges of 78 and 73 miles respectively. The company achieved this by integrating larger batteries directly into the vehicle floor to improve efficiency.
Why it matters
This development marks a significant milestone for plug-in hybrid technology, potentially bridging the gap between traditional hybrids and full electric vehicles for consumers.
Most plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) today get an average of around 30-50 miles of battery-only range: decent, but not mind-blowing. With hybrid sales dominating the market today, Volvo is out to prove that its PHEVs can push the limits of what’s possible.
Today, the Swedish automaker revealed the updated PHEV versions of its popular XC60 and XC90 SUVs are its first “long range plug-in hybrids,” delivering class-leading ranges of 78 miles and 73 miles, respectively. That’s more than double the electric range of previous PHEV variant. The numbers are still preliminary and based on EPA testing standards. But if confirmed, they would make Volvo’s PHEVs “the longest electric range of any plug-in hybrids available in the American market,” the automaker claims.
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