The hope in the Volvo EX90 is great. Last Wednesday, the electric model was presented to the public in Stockholm – and praised in high tones. The five meter long SUV flagship is designed for families who want a “versatile” and at the same time “elegant” car, according to a published press release. The EX90 combines modern proportions with the latest technology.
The seven-seater with hammer-shaped front lights uses camera, radar and lidar sensors, which can create a 360-degree view of the surroundings in real time, i.e. while driving, according to Volvo. Accordingly, the sensors react when the driver is “just a fraction too late”. Lidar can detect objects hundreds of meters in advance and issue an appropriate warning. In addition, new steering assistance when changing lanes should lead to an improvement in the so-called Pilot Assist driver assistance function.
Volvo speaks of an “invisible protective shield” that should also be used in the cockpit. Cameras and sensors should check the concentration of the eyes and, if necessary, alert the driver to inattentiveness. It should also be possible to detect the influence of alcohol. If there is no further reaction from the driver’s seat, the EX90 should be able to stop safely and call for help. The successor to the XC90 plug-in hybrid model is intended to “further raise the standards for safety and a more sustainable lifestyle” at Volvo. The built-in safety technology should “become more intelligent and safer over time” when it receives updates, for example – an advantage that is also known from electric cars from other manufacturers. In the future, autonomous driving with an autopilot should also be possible.
The operation of the EX90 is reminiscent of Tesla: it is mostly done via a 14.5-inch screen in the middle, which is reminiscent of a tablet. It is said to make “one of the best infotainment systems” ever available and to be able to use 5G, provided fast internet performance is available. In any case, Google services such as hands-free functions, Google Maps and Google Play are integrated. Apple devices can also be connected to the vehicle via CarPlay. In addition to the main display, a second small display is installed behind the steering wheel, which shows driving data such as the current speed and information on the range. The software used in the EX90 comes from Volvo itself.
The entertainment options also include speakers built into the headrests, which are intended to improve the sound in the interior. In addition, the SUV can be locked and unlocked with a smartphone. When unlocking, a personal greeting sounds and the personal driver profile is loaded automatically.
“The Volvo EX90 is a statement of where we are and where we’re going,” said Jim Rowan, CEO of Volvo. The car is “in many ways the beginning of something new for Volvo Cars”.
To get closer to their goal of being carbon neutral by 2040, the Swedes are using “responsibly manufactured materials” in the EX90’s interior. Accordingly, the vehicle consists of 15 percent recycled steel, 25 percent recycled aluminum and 48 kilograms of recycled plastic and bio-based materials. Overall, the SUV should have a climate-friendly plastic content of around 15 percent.
The performance data of the EX90 are quite impressive. According to the manufacturer, the Stromer can travel up to 600 kilometers (according to WLTP) with one battery charge. For comparison: The Mercedes EQE SUV should cover up to 558 kilometers, the longest-range BMW iX 626 kilometers.
Volvo has not yet provided any information on consumption, but on charging capacity. It should be up to 250 kW and thus 80 kW higher than that of the Mercedes EQE SUV. The EX90 should be able to charge from 10 to 80 percent at a quick charging station in around 30 minutes. AC charging, on the other hand, is only possible with 11 kW, so the charging time here is 11 hours.
In addition, the EX90 is the first Volvo ever to have hardware for bidirectional charging. The drive battery should thus be able to be used as an additional energy source, for example for a house, other electrical devices or another electric car.
The SUV will initially be available with all-wheel drive and two engines. In addition, it appears with a giant battery with a capacity of 111 kWh – just as big as the battery of the BMW iX xDrive 50.
According to the manufacturer, the engine has a maximum output of 517 hp and 910 Newton meters. With a specified range of 4.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, the EX90 can keep up with a Porsche Boxster here. At a driving speed of 180 km/h, however, this is the end, then the EX90 locks itself.
The Volvo costs €105,000, making it more expensive than the BMW iX model. Alternatively, the SUV is also available as a subscription. Here then around 1600 euros per month including maintenance and comprehensive insurance are due. Volvo wants to build the electric SUV in the USA and later also in China from next year. EX90 deliveries are scheduled to begin in early/mid-2024.
Sources: Volvo (1), Volvo (2), ADAC
