Volvo continues to invest heavily in the electric vehicle (EV) market, despite stepping back from its commitment to go all-electric by 2030. The Swedish automaker has emphasized its plans to expand its electric lineup, with plans to introduce a new model each year over the next five years. However, the company remains uncertain about launching an all-electric estate to compete with rivals like the BMW i5 Touring, Audi A6 e-tron, and VW ID.7 Tourer.
In recent years, Volvo has trademarked the names EV60 and EV90, sparking speculation that these models could be the next step in the brand’s electric expansion. The automaker has confirmed that one of its upcoming releases will be a new electric sedan, joining the existing EX30, EX40, and EX90 models. However, the prospect of an electric estate remains unclear.
When asked about the possibility of adding an electric estate to Volvo’s portfolio, Volvo UK managing director Nicole Shaw explained, “It’s too early to say, because it’s only December; in another quarter, I might have more of a feeling on how it’s done.” She added, “When it comes to anything we evolve, the electric space is the one we evolve into.”
Volvo has been considering an electric estate for some time. Last year, Volvo CEO Jim Rowan stated that while an electric estate could be a compelling product, the decision would hinge on market demand and profitability. “I get so many emails asking me when somebody is going to do a proper electric wagon – mainly from people in northern Europe and Maine!” Rowan shared. “But then you say, ‘What if we did that?’ and ask ‘What if we did a Cross Country version of it?’. Would that be something that would work in our portfolio?”
Rowan acknowledged the challenges in launching an electric estate, noting that demand for estate cars and sedans has been declining, especially in Europe. “The point really is whether we should do it – is there enough margin there, is there enough demand for that car?” he said. “Are people really going to say, ‘Okay, I’d rather have a nicely designed wagon than choose a sedan [saloon] or an SUV’? Do we think the market is going to move back into that area?”
While the electric estate remains under consideration, Volvo’s primary focus is the upcoming ES90 electric sedan, which is set for unveiling in March 2025. Built on the same SPA2 platform as the EX90 SUV, the ES90 is expected to offer a dual-motor powertrain and a 111 kWh battery pack, with power outputs of 402 hp and 510 hp. The ES90 is seen as a key part of Volvo’s strategy to expand its EV offerings in the coming years.
Source: Auto Express
