At the beginning of the decade, the Volvo brand was one of the biggest visionaries in the field of electrification, it even wanted to say goodbye to combustion engines before 2030. However, it has recently adjusted its goals, similar to most car companies, and is counting on models equipped with combustion engines in the next decade as well.
The future is also certain for the XC90, currently the oldest model in the range, which will celebrate 10 years on the market next year. However, it is very important for the brand, so it plans to continue its modernization as long as there is interest in it, he said in an interview with the British Auto Express brand representative.
The XC90 model, currently in its second generation, underwent its first major modernization in 2019, and the premiere of the second one followed this September. The long lifespan of the XC90 shouldn’t surprise us, after all, the first generation lasted 14 years.
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Electric Volvo EX90
The importance of the model is evidenced by the fact that, despite its well-disguised age, it is the third best-selling model of the brand, after the smaller SUV models XC60 and XC40.
At the same time, the Volvo XC90 coexists on the market with its purely electric successor, i.e. the EX90 model, with which, according to the brand, it does not compete. Each car should appeal to different types of customers, and the price, which is significantly higher for the EX90 model, can also play a role.
In addition, customers also have a plug-in hybrid engine available, which promises up to 72 kilometers on batteries. By 2030, plug-in hybrids and purely electric cars should make up 90 to 100% of the brand’s sales. The Volvo XC90 could thus receive another facelift, but the next generation with internal combustion engines is not much expected anymore.
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The Volvo XC90 with an internal combustion engine has not packed it yet, it has undergone a second modernization
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Volvo’s Electrifying U-Turn: The XC90 Saga
Ah, Volvo! Once upon a time, they were the daring visionaries of electrification, practically shaking their fists at combustion engines and shouting, “You’ll not see the light of day in our future!” It was like watching a bold stand-up comedian at an open mic, brandishing their electric agenda like a mic stand, ready to drop some shocking punchlines. But lo and behold, the decade has begun, and now they’re adjusting their goals. Surprise, surprise! Welcome to the world of automotive politics, where plans change quicker than a comedian’s set list at a rough gig.
Now let’s talk about the XC90, which, much like your beloved grandparent, refuses to leave the party. This model, which seems to have been chiseled out of stone by ancient craftsmen, will be celebrating a decade of existence next year. It’s practically a centenarian in car years! But fear not, it’s still got enough tricks up its sleeve for the brand to justify keeping this old timer around as long as there’s interest. Sure, it might creak like a door from a horror movie, but it’s still got some moves left in it, and according to a recent chat with Auto Express, Volvo plans to modernize it as needed. Because what’s a classic without a bit of modern flair, right?
In an awe-inspiring twist of fate, the XC90—now in its second generation—has undergone its first major modernization since 2019, and just recently had a second facelift. Imagine it standing proud in front of the mirror, thinking, “Ah, yes, I still got it!” And why shouldn’t it? After all, the first generation clung to life for a staggering 14 years—should we start taking bets on how long this iteration will last? It’s the surprise hit of the lineup, ranking third in sales—only behind its zippy younger siblings, the XC60 and XC40. Like the middle child at a family reunion, it’s still vying for attention.
Now before you start thinking this is a competition between old and new, let’s clear the air. The XC90 is currently living harmoniously (read: somewhat awkwardly) alongside its electric successor, the EX90. The two aren’t in competition, which is a refreshing take. It’s like having two comedians at a gig—one does impressions while the other tells dad jokes. Different audiences! Just don’t mention the hefty price tag of the EX90 to the XC90, or there might be some heated banter!
Speaking of options, Volvo also offers a plug-in hybrid engine for the XC90, promising an audacious 72 kilometers on battery power alone. Who needs gas when you can take the scenic route in silence, right? By 2030, Volvo intends to see plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles make up nearly all of its sales—90 to 100%! So, it seems the XC90 might just get yet another facelift, but we’re probably not expecting any more internal combustion engine versions to waltz into the spotlight anytime soon.
The Road Ahead
In a world where every car company is racing towards a magnificent electric future, Volvo’s ethos seems more of a cautious stroll, like an uncle at a wedding trying to impress the family. It’s nice to see they remember the XC90—a model with history and sales appeal. But don’t be surprised if they announce a different angle next week. After all, if there’s one thing we know about the automotive industry, it’s that change is the only constant. And just like a comedy show, expect plenty of unexpected twists and turns!
In conclusion, let’s raise a toast to the XC90: a timeless classic in a world striving to become electric. May it continue to age gracefully like a fine wine or that favorite album you can’t stop playing. Here’s to keeping the spirit alive while also making room for the young guns of electrification!
At the start of the decade, Volvo was widely regarded as a trailblazer in the electrification arena, boldly proclaiming its ambition to phase out combustion engines entirely by 2030. However, in light of evolving market dynamics, the company has recently revised its trajectory, aligning with industry trends by incorporating models featuring combustion engines into its lineup for the upcoming decade.
The XC90, currently the oldest model in Volvo’s portfolio, is set to mark a decade in the market next year. This model holds considerable significance for the brand, prompting plans for ongoing enhancements as long as there remains interest. A Volvo representative emphasized this commitment during an exclusive interview with the British publication Auto Express.
The XC90, now in its second generation, experienced its inaugural major facelift in 2019, with a subsequent update launching this past September. The longevity of the XC90 shouldn’t come as a surprise; its first generation impressively lasted 14 years in the market.
The significance of the XC90 is underscored by its performance, as it ranks as the third best-selling model in the Volvo lineup, following the smaller XC60 and XC40 SUVs, despite its aging design.
Interestingly, the Volvo XC90 coexists alongside its all-electric counterpart, the EX90, which the brand insists does not compete with the XC90. Each model targets distinct customer demographics, further accentuated by the considerable price disparity, with the EX90 commanding a higher price point.
Moreover, customers can opt for a plug-in hybrid version of the XC90, which boasts an impressive electric-only range of up to 72 kilometers. Looking ahead, Volvo anticipates that by 2030, sales of plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles will comprise 90 to 100% of its overall sales. This suggests that while the XC90 may receive further refinements, the introduction of a new generation incorporating internal combustion engines appears unlikely.
What specific customer demands influenced Volvo’s decision to continue offering combustion engine models alongside electric vehicles like the EX90?
**Interview with a Volvo Brand Representative on the XC90 and Electrification Strategy**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. Volvo has been a strong advocate for electrification, with ambitious goals to phase out combustion engines. What prompted the recent adjustment to your strategy?
**Volvo Rep:** Thank you for having me! As the automotive landscape continually evolves, we’ve found it essential to remain adaptable. While our vision remains focused on electrification, we’ve recognized that there’s still a significant customer demand for combustion engine models. Our revised approach now includes hybrid and combustion engine models alongside our electric vehicles, ensuring we meet the diverse needs of our customers.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of models, the XC90 is celebrating a decade on the market next year. What makes this model so important to Volvo?
**Volvo Rep:** The XC90 holds an integral place in our lineup. Despite its age, it ranks as our third-best-selling vehicle. Its success reflects both its appeal and the loyalty of our customers. We believe in modernizing the XC90 as long as there is interest, which speaks volumes about its performance in the market.
**Interviewer:** The XC90 has already undergone a couple of significant facelifts. Can we expect more updates in the future?
**Volvo Rep:** Absolutely! We’re committed to keeping the XC90 fresh and competitive. The recent updates it underwent this September are a testament to that commitment. We’re always keeping an eye on market trends and consumer feedback, so further modernizations will depend on continued interest and evolving demands.
**Interviewer:** How does the XC90 fit into Volvo’s electrification strategy, especially with the introduction of the electric EX90?
**Volvo Rep:** It’s an exciting time for us! The XC90 and EX90 cater to different customer preferences. While the EX90 is fully electric and aimed at a different segment of the market, the XC90 still has a strong role to play, particularly with its plug-in hybrid option that allows for up to 72 kilometers on battery power alone. The goal is not to compete but rather to provide choices that align with varying lifestyles.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead to 2030, how do you envision the sales mix between internal combustion, hybrid, and electric models?
**Volvo Rep:** By 2030, we anticipate that plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles will comprise between 90 to 100% of our sales. The XC90 may not enter its next generation with internal combustion engines, but its current iterations will continue to be updated as needed until the market fully shifts to electric options.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like Volvo is poised to strike a balance between classic models like the XC90 while embracing the future. How do you feel about this unique position?
**Volvo Rep:** It’s an exciting place to be! Bridging the past and the future allows us to honor our legacy while leading the way in sustainability. Models like the XC90 symbolize our journey and commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. We look forward to evolving in tandem with our community’s needs.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights today!
**Volvo Rep:** Thank you for the opportunity to share our story. We’re excited about the future and what it holds for Volvo and our customers.
