The All-New Volvo XC70 Plug-In Hybrid Unveiled Ahead of Official Debut
The highly anticipated Volvo XC70 plug-in hybrid has been revealed ahead of its official debut, thanks to new images released by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).
Previous teaser images hinted at the XC70’s transformation from a high-riding estate to a full-fledged SUV, and the latest images showcase its close resemblance to the larger XC90.
Measuring 4815mm in length and 1890mm in width, the XC70 is comparable in size to popular SUVs like the Volkswagen Tayron, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Peugeot 5008. Unlike its larger counterpart, the XC70 will initially be offered with five seats.
The MIIT filing also sheds light on the XC70’s technical specifications, confirming that it will come exclusively as a plug-in hybrid. Buyers can choose between a 21.2kWh battery providing 62 miles of range or a larger 39.6kWh pack offering up to 112 miles – based on China’s CLTC cycle.
Equipped with either front- or four-wheel drive, the XC70 features a 160bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor of undisclosed capacity.
More details are expected to be revealed closer to the XC70’s launch in China in September. Volvo may also announce plans to introduce the new PHEV globally to meet the rising demand for hybrid vehicles in certain markets.
Volvo CEO HÃ¥kan Samuelsson sees extended-range plug-in hybrids as key players in Europe’s transition to electrification, suggesting that the XC70 could potentially be sold in European markets.
During a recent conference, Samuelsson emphasized the importance of long-range hybrids in regions where the charging infrastructure is still developing. He highlighted the environmental benefits of using a plug-in hybrid, stating that it can operate primarily on electricity, making it essentially an electric car with a backup engine for when the battery is depleted.
