Volvo EX90 accelerates toward its electric future

Mason Bloom

Volvo’s push for an all-electric future ramped up as the Swedish automaker recently unveiled in Stockholm the Volvo EX90, its largest and most expensive electric vehicle to date.

The debut of the Volvo EX90 follows the carmaker’s pledge to eliminate all gas-powered vehicles from its lineup by 2030. Volvo currently sells two EVs — the C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge — yet the electric architecture of the EX90 has been built from the ground up for peak ergonomics.

The Volvo EX90, the largest and most expensive electric vehicle to date from the Swedish manufacturer, recently was recently unveiled in Stockholm.
The Volvo EX90, the largest and most expensive electric vehicle to date from the Swedish manufacturer, recently was recently unveiled in Stockholm. All images courtesy of Volvo.

Volvo’s newest model is propelled exclusively by two electric motors sending power to all four wheels. Currently no single-motor option is available but this could change. The standard, Twin Motor model generates 402 horsepower and 568 lbs/ft of torque.

Volvo EX90: Engine Options Available

Buyers willing to spend extra for the Twin Motor Performance model will have 496 horsepower and 671 lbs/ft at their disposal. The upgraded Twin Motor Performance model produces an extra kick with its two upgraded permanent magnet electric motors. Real world performance figures are drastically different between the two EX90 trims. The standard Twin Motor variation sprints to 60 mph from a standstill in 5.7 seconds. The Twin Motor Performance does the same test a full second faster.

Both Volvo EX90 models feature the same 400-volt, 111-kWh architecture capable of a 10-80 percent charge in 30 minutes and a maximum range of an estimated 300 miles. Thanks to its bi-directional charging technology, the EX90 can use its power reserve to power a home if needed during an outage

The vehicle also features a new SPA2 platform with a new chassis with air suspension included. It also receives 15.7/15.4 inches front/rear brakes, and a 38.7-foot turning circle (a foot less than its gas-powered counterpart).

Volvo EX90 accelerates toward its electric future 1

Volvo, as it has for many years now, has placed a heavy emphasis on safety in addition to performance.

The automaker says the EX90 is “safer than any Volvo car to come before it.” This is achieved through a series of cameras, sensors and radars serving many functions.

Volvo EX90: Lots Of Tech Options

Two cameras monitor the driver’s eyes to sense if they are drowsy, distracted or in an otherwise suboptimal state. The driver is nudged, warned, then interfered with if the driver doesn’t react in time to avoid a crash. A radar mounted within the car can also sense for children or pets to display a reminder about not locking them within the vehicle or keeping them in too hot of an environment. Lidar technology has the ability to keep those outside the car — up to 820 feet away at that — safe by detecting them with a 100-degree field of view.

The Volvo EX90 debuts with an interior far more minimalist than previous Volvo models.

A large, 15-inch touchscreen with 5G connectivity dominates the center console where buttons normally would be. The only button that remains is one to control the volume. The gear selector, also normally on the center console, is now a stalk. The MacBook-sized screen displays all functions, such as built-in Google applications, Apple CarPlay, and even the ability to open the glove compartment.

Volvo EX90 accelerates toward its electric future 2

In addition to using a less-is-more approach, Volvo also set out to make the EX90 one of its most luxurious cars to date.

This SUV is the first Volvo to feature Dolby Atmos through 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. These are integrated into the headrests and throughout the cabin, giving buyers the option to experience 4D 360-degree sound. Volvo will no longer utilize leather in its EVs, offering Nordico as a substitute with wool-blend fabric, with other textiles and carpeting produced from recycled plastics.

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Such technology and equipment comes at a price. The Volvo EX90 starts at “under $80,000” with no exact price yet provided. Should a buyer wish to avoid a long-term lease or buy commitment they can do so through the Care by Volvo subscription plan of monthly payments for a minimum of five months. Pre-orders are already being taken and customers will have the opportunity to configure their vehicles next fall for a 2024 delivery.

Mason Bloom is a reporter for TheWeeklyDriver.com. When he is not writing about industry news, new car reviews or covering live motorsport events, he is a sophomore at Aptos High School in the California central coast.

Article Last Updated: June 10, 2024.

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