Volvo, a Chinese-Swedish company owned by Geely Group, is set to introduce a new plug-in hybrid SUV codenamed V446 exclusively for the Chinese market. This collaboration between Volvo, Meizu, and Geely is expected to begin mass production at Volvo’s Taizhou plant in early 2025, as reported by domestic media sources.
The upcoming Volvo V446 will be based on an existing Lynk & Co SUV plug-in hybrid model, with software and hardware development primarily led by the Volvo China R&D team. While the specific model it will be based on has not been disclosed, it is anticipated to utilize Lynk & Co 08’s EM-P PHEV technology, built on the CMA 2 platform. This platform, familiar to Volvo due to its use in the XC40, supports a plug-in hybrid powertrain unlike the EV-only SPA 2 platform.
Meizu and EcarX will play a crucial role in developing the cockpit software for the Volvo V446. Meizu, a smartphone manufacturer acquired by Geely in July 2022, brings its in-cabin software Flyme Auto to the table. This software is already integrated into 17 models within the Geely Group, including Lynk & Co 08 and Polestar vehicles. Meizu’s Flyme Auto has seen success in the market, with 62,000 cars equipped with the software sold in October alone.
While Volvo’s collaboration with Meizu marks a new partnership within the Geely Group, challenges arise in integrating the Flyme Auto software into Volvo vehicles. Volvo is determined to make modifications and adaptations to the software to align it with the Volvo brand identity, rather than using it as is. This adjustment process involves Volvo Asia Pacific’s cockpit SW designers working closely with EcarX to customize the software for Volvo vehicles.
Despite these efforts, there are still obstacles to overcome in the software development process. Volvo’s European software team, based in Sweden, handles software development, leading to delays in communication and feedback due to the time zone difference with China. This slower turnaround time poses challenges for Volvo’s Asia Pacific R&D system, as they strive to streamline the software development process for the new Volvo V446.
In terms of specifications, the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P is a mid-size PHEV SUV with impressive dimensions and performance capabilities. With a top trim level offering AWD, a 40 kWh NMC battery, and a combined range of 1,200 km CLTC, the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P boasts power of 316 kW (585 hp) and 905 Nm peak torque. Starting at a price of 178,800 yuan (24,700 USD) in China, this model showcases the innovative technology and performance expected from Volvo’s upcoming V446 plug-in hybrid SUV.
