Volvo created what could be a trend in the segment for big SUVs. In essence, Volvo’s SUV in question, the XC90 T8, has been designed for plug-in/electrification compatibility, delivering the type of performance associated with a luxury SUV, whilst returning emission levels small hybrids can’t conjure.
The figures are jaw-dropping. For Volvo it was important not to sacrifice any of the performance, driving pleasure, efficiency or luggage space that its clients have become accustomed to. In doing so, the XC90 T8 is a “uniquely roomy 7-seater SUV” with power figures that can make many a performance car shy away.
A full 290 kW is on offer, whilst the torque figure comes in at 640 N.m. What makes it all the more remarkable is that emissions are rated at 59 g/km with fuel economy at a scant 2,5 l/100 km.
“The all-new Volvo XC90 T8 is a plug-in electric car, hybrid car and high-performance car rolled into one,” says Dr Peter Mertens, senior vice president Research and Development of Volvo Car Group. “The Drive-E engines already offer highly competitive performance versus the competition. The T8 takes it further into a leading position.”
According to Volvo, sprinting from 0 – 100 km/h is only part of what the new XC90 T8 can do. The SUV has five different driving modes ranging from performance orientated to efficiency-enhancing characteristics. Drivers will be able to choose between:
- Hybrid: This is the default setting, drawing power alternately from both the 2,0-litre Drive-E engine and the electric motor.
- Pure Electric: With the battery fully charged and on battery power alone, the new XC90 T8 can reach a distance of more than 40 km. should more power be needed, the Drive-E combustion engine will start up automatically.
- Power mode: combined power from both the combustion engine and the electric motor is on offer. The electric motor’s instant torque will deliver great thrust, offering better torque at lower revs than a big V8 engine.
- AWD: With all-wheel drive on constant demand, drivers have the luxury of choosing whether to use this mode or not. Energy will be saved when AWD is not activated.
- Save: If the battery is fully charged, the driver has the option to “freeze” the battery life for later use in Pure Electric drive. Also, if the battery is low, drivers can charge their batteries using the combustion engine.
The already-mentioned 2,0-litre engine found in the XC90 T8 is utilises both turbo- and supercharged technology. Output for this engine alone is rated at 235 kW and 400 N.m of torque.
Drive is sent to all four corners via a new 8-speed automatic gearbox that has been specially created for this vehicle.
According to Volvo, the strategic placing of the high-voltage battery means that the battery does not have an influence on the available space inside the car. Occupants in all three rows of seats can thus sit comfortably.
The 60 kW and 240 N.m electric motor is situated on the rear axle and drives the rear wheels when in electric and power-boost modes. This is especially handy when the vehicle is in AWD mode, says Volvo.
A neat feature the XC90 T8 has is that it can pre-condition the temperature of the vehicle. The drivetrain, battery and cabin can be conditioned for convenience and efficiency either from within the car or by using a mobile app. This function will allow the battery to last as long as possible in Pure Electric mode.
Priced at around R800 000, the Volvo XC90 T8 should reach South Africa in the second half of 2015.
