[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunseok Yoo] Volvo Cars Korea announced on the 13th the launch of the new XC90, S90, and XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which feature long-range batteries to enhance pure electric driving range.
The 'Recharge Plug-in Hybrid' is an eco-friendly powertrain that completes Volvo Cars' electrification strategy alongside pure electric vehicles. This powertrain is designed to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions while providing high efficiency and excellent performance across various driving conditions through a combination of a gasoline engine, electric motor, and all-wheel drive system.
The newly improved powertrain consists of three series battery modules with a nominal energy capacity increased from 11.6 kWh to 18.8 kWh, comprising a total of 102 cells in the high-voltage battery. It features a long-range battery equipped with a rear electric motor that delivers approximately 65% improved rear-wheel output. On a single charge, it can travel up to 53 to 57 km in pure electric mode, an improvement of about 80% compared to previous models.
The e-motor, which offers 50 horsepower more than the existing Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T8 model, boasts a maximum output of 455 horsepower and a peak torque of 72.3 kg·m, making it the most powerful performance in the brand's history. Additionally, the rear output has been increased by 65%, enabling stable driving. The all-wheel drive system has also been upgraded to enhance safety during low-speed or slippery road driving and improve traction. The acceleration time from start to 100 km/h is 4.8 seconds for the S90 PHEV and XC60 PHEV, and 5.3 seconds for the XC90 PHEV.
Furthermore, the S90 and XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid models now include the one-pedal drive feature introduced in pure electric vehicles. This option allows acceleration and deceleration to be controlled using only the accelerator pedal, providing a smooth and intuitive driving experience.
Yoon Mo Lee, CEO of Volvo Cars Korea, stated, "The newly introduced Recharge plug-in hybrid lineup embodies Volvo Cars' consideration for people and the environment as we move toward an electrified future. We hope customers will experience the new value of part-time electric vehicles through the extended electric driving mode."
The upgraded Recharge plug-in hybrid lineup is priced at 112.7 million KRW (XC90 Recharge PHEV), 87.4 million KRW (S90 Recharge PHEV), and 85.7 million KRW (XC60 Recharge PHEV) in the domestic market.
All models come in the top-tier 'Ultimate Bright' trim, featuring ▲ premium sound system by British high-end speaker maker Bowers & Wilkins ▲ crystal gear knob by Swedish Orrefors ▲ Clean Zone interior package with ultra-fine dust purification and antibacterial functions ▲ and advanced driver assistance systems that embody leadership in safety as standard equipment.
Additionally, the S90 and XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrids are equipped with T-map infotainment, which allows users to perform tasks such as adjusting interior and seat temperatures, setting destinations, playing music and recommended playlists, sending messages, and searching for lifestyle information simply by calling 'Aria.' Moreover, the vehicles offer ▲ Volvo Cars app for smartphone-based vehicle access and temperature control ▲ 'Volvo On Call,' providing 24-hour accident reporting, emergency dispatch requests, and service center guidance at the push of a button in emergencies ▲ wireless smartphone charging ▲ industry-leading 5 years of LTE data and 1 year of FLO subscription ▲ and 15 years of free OTA updates support.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
