Volvo's XC60 SUV will transition to electric powertrains, expected to hit the market by 2024.
Volvo's Electric Future: The EX60 and Beyond
In a bold move towards electrification, Volvo has announced that the successor to its popular midsize SUV, the XC60, will be an all-electric model named the EX60. Scheduled to debut and arrive in early to mid-2026, the EX60 is poised to challenge competitors like the Tesla Model Y, Mercedes EQC, Audi Q4 e-tron, BMW iX3, and Lexus RZ.
Manufactured in Gothenburg, Sweden, using advanced mega casting technology, the EX60 will boast a significant reduction in part count and vehicle weight, while improving precision and aerodynamics. This manufacturing technique enables a slightly lower seating position, enhancing vehicle aerodynamics and electric range.
The EX60 will be part of Volvo's push for electrification, following the pattern set by its larger electric SUV, the EX90. It is expected to feature Volvo’s latest infotainment and safety technologies, continuing the brand’s emphasis on luxury, advanced digital interfaces, and green technology.
Meanwhile, the current 2025 Volvo XC60 remains available in petrol mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions. With a refreshed look, larger touchscreens, and modernized tech, the facelifted XC60 offers value at a starting price below mainstream German rivals. However, it is not a full electric model.
Volvo and battery startup Northvolt plan to build a joint battery factory, with production set to start in 2026. This partnership aims to provide batteries for Volvo's growing electric vehicle lineup. By 2026, Volvo is expected to introduce seven new and updated electrified models, including five pure battery vehicles and two plug-in hybrids.
The XC60 was the best-selling model of Volvo in 2021, with 215,635 units sold. It is possible that the current XC60 could continue to be offered alongside its successor due to its popularity. The compact SUV XC40 is already available with a pure battery drive.
Future designs from Volvo can be seen in the Concept Recharge study presented last year, hinting at a shift towards a more sustainable and innovative future. Volvo's ultimate goal is to switch to a fully electric program by 2030.
Sources: [1] Autocar, "Volvo EX60: everything you need to know about the electric XC60 replacement", 2022. [2] Car and Driver, "2022 Volvo XC60 Review", 2022. [3] Volvo Cars, "Volvo Cars to introduce seven new and updated electrified models in the coming years", 2021.
- The introduction of Volvo's EX60, which will challenge competitors like the Tesla Model Y, Mercedes EQC, Audi Q4 e-tron, BMW iX3, and Lexus RZ, signals a shift towards electric vehicles in the brand's lifestyle.
- As a part of Volvo's electrification plans, the upcoming EX60 will showcase the brand's latest technology, including advanced digital interfaces and green tech, furthering the innovation in car-maintenance.
- In line with Volvo's aim to switch to a fully electric program by 2030, the EX60 will join the lineup of electric vehicles, contributing to the reduction of carbon footprint in technology and lifestyle choices.
