The XC70 is back as a plug-in SUV.
Image: Supplied
In a further diversion from its original plan to go electric-only by the end of this decade, Volvo has partially revealed an all-new plug-in hybrid SUV.
The newcomer, which was designed primarily for China, but which is also under consideration for other markets, revives the XC70 nameplate that was used for butched-up versions of the V70 estate car between 2003 and 2016.
The new XC70, on the other hand, is a fully fledged SUV that resembles a scaled-down version of the recently introduced EX90.
Despite the likeness, the XC70 is built on a new Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA) that will underpin future extended-range plug-in hybrid models.
The XC70 will be Volvo’s first “extended-range” plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
Volvo claims an all-electric range of up to 200km for the new model, which is more than double that offered by the XC60 Recharge PHEV.
Its exterior design resembles the new EX90.
Image: Supplied
Volvo says the new XC70 will be slightly larger and more spacious than the current XC60, and it is expected to slot between that and the XC90.
Volvo is remaining tight-lipped about the powertrain and other specifications pertaining to the XC70, but says the vehicle will be fully revealed in the coming months.
Volvo’s Chief Executive Håkan Samuelsson describes it as a perfect bridge to full electrification.
““It enables us to maintain and develop a balanced product portfolio, while offering a highly attractive alternative to customers who are not yet ready for fully electric cars. This is also an example of regionalisation, where we adapt to the local market needs.”
This does however represent something of a backtrack from the company’s previously stated intention to offer only fully electric vehicles from 2030.
The Swedish carmaker admitted earlier this year that it will still offer some hybrid products beyond that date.
In South Africa its move away from traditional internal combustion products has caused the company to downsize, closing 12 out of its 19 dealerships as part of what it calls a “long-term brand strategic realignment”. However, many dealers claim they have been left high and dry after investing considerably in their operations.
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