Volvo introduces the world's most powerful and cleanest SUV
The Volvo XC90 T8 is the first of the marque's creations to boast plug-in hybrid capabilities designed from the ground up, but still it delivers emission levels that even small hybrid cars struggle to match.
When designing the XC90 T8, Volvo Cars chose not to compromise on performance, driving pleasure, efficiency or even luggage space. By building on the new modular platform and successful Drive-E petrol powertrain, the company has created a uniquely roomy 7-seater SUV that delivers 400hp and 640Nm combined with expected ultra-low emissions of 59g/km.
Dr Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development of Volvo Car Group said: "The XC90 T8 is a plug-in electric car, hybrid car and high-performance car rolled into one. The Drive-E engines already offer highly competitive performance versus the competition. The T8 takes it further into a leading position."
The XC90 T8 can go from 0 to 62mph in 5.9 seconds, delivering all the driving pleasure customers have come to expect from a Volvo SUV. But driving pleasure is only a fraction of what the XC90 T8 offers: the car has five different driving modes that deliver a range of performance and efficiency-enhancing characteristics. Using either a scroll wheel on the centre console or a touchscreen on the dashboard, drivers can choose from hybrid, pure electric, power mode, all-wheel drive or 'save' mode.
Many of the XC90 T8's powertrain features have been optimised specifically for hybrid technology. This includes a specially modified Drive-E petrol engine, enhanced with a supercharger and turbocharger.
The T8 also uses an eight-speed automatic gearbox, energy recovering braking system and pre-conditioning which allows the driver to heat up or cool the car from a mobile app remotely.