Volvo Significantly Boosts Battery Range for XC60 and XC90 Plug-in Hybrids

Volvo has announced a significant update for its best-selling XC60 and three-row XC90 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUVs for the 2028 model year. This refresh dramatically enhances the vehicles' electric driving range, alongside a new infotainment system and subtle design modifications.

Highlights

• The XC60 T8 model's battery capacity has been increased to 37.9 kWh, extending its electric range to 125 km (78 miles).
• The XC90 T8 also receives the 37.9 kWh battery, providing an electric range of 117 km (73 miles).
• A new 11.2-inch infotainment system features a Gemini personal assistant for advanced conversational voice control.
• Exterior updates for the XC60 include refinements to the "Thor's Hammer" headlights and a slimmer front grille.
• XC60 production will expand to Volvo's plant in South Carolina, USA, in addition to the existing line in Sweden.

Details

The Volvo XC60 is a crucial model for the brand, with over 2.7 million units sold worldwide by the end of last year. With this update, the net battery capacity of the XC60 T8 plug-in hybrid has been boosted to 37.9 kWh. This increase allows the vehicle to achieve an electric range of 125 kilometers (78 miles), according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) test cycle. Volvo indicates this range should be sufficient for three days of typical daily driving, based on data showing the median US Volvo driver's commute is 35 kilometers (22 miles) round-trip.

The XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid also benefits from the same 37.9 kWh usable battery pack, providing an all-electric range of 117 kilometers (73 miles). Both models now feature a new 11.2-inch infotainment system, powered by Android Automotive OS, which integrates the Gemini personal assistant for more sophisticated and conversational voice control.

Why it matters

This move by Volvo underscores the brand's commitment to its electrification strategy. The extended electric ranges will enable users to complete a significant portion of their daily driving in all-electric mode, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Håkan Samuelsson, President & CEO at Volvo Cars, stated, "The XC60 is our bestselling model of all time, while the XC90 marked the beginning of our premium journey. 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." These advancements enhance Volvo's competitiveness in the electric vehicle market and offer consumers more environmentally friendly and efficient options.