Volvo EX90: Volvo has always been known for safety, innovation, and Scandinavian design, but the Volvo EX90 takes these principles to an entirely new level. Dubbed the “most sophisticated and technologically advanced car” the company has ever produced, this fully electric SUV promises a blend of luxury, performance, and groundbreaking features that position it as a serious contender in the EV market. Not just an electric counterpart to the Volvo XC90, the EX90 stands as a symbol of the future of Volvo, where sustainability, advanced tech, and family-friendly features come together seamlessly. Let’s take a deeper look at what makes the Volvo EX90 a standout in the increasingly competitive electric SUV space.
Sleek Design with Purposeful Features
From the moment you lay eyes on the Volvo EX90, it exudes both modern luxury and advanced utility. Measuring longer than the XC90, the EX90 retains a sleek, aerodynamic look while providing ample space for passengers and cargo. The absence of rubber cladding around the wheel arches signals its departure from rugged off-road intentions and leans more into the realm of luxury. The front features motorized lights that offer a welcoming animation as you approach, while the rear is adorned with animated taillights.
Perhaps the most striking element on the EX90’s exterior is the LiDAR sensor mounted on the roof. While its large, bulbous appearance has been subject to some criticism, it is an essential part of Volvo’s commitment to future autonomous driving technology. The car is already equipped with the hardware for self-driving capabilities, even if it’s not yet fully operational.
Interior Comfort and Spaciousness
Inside the Volvo EX90, luxury and sustainability come together harmoniously. The cabin, designed with Swedish minimalism, offers a spacious and thoughtfully laid-out interior. The materials used include a mix of sustainably sourced and recycled fabrics, with the entire car containing nearly 50 kilograms of recycled or bio-based materials. From a visual and tactile perspective, this blend of materials feels premium and environmentally conscious.
One of the standout aspects of the EX90 is its seven-seat configuration. Even with all the seats in place, the cargo space remains impressive. Volvo has managed to provide a generous 310 liters of space with all seats up while folding down the third row opens up to 665 liters and a whopping 1,000 liters when both the second and third rows are collapsed. Volvo’s clever inclusion of underfloor storage adds another layer of practicality, making this electric SUV an excellent choice for families.
Clever Rear Suspension and Pet-Friendly Features
Volvo hasn’t forgotten about pet owners in the design of the EX90. The rear suspension can be lowered at the push of a button, making it easier for pets (or less agile family members) to get in and out of the trunk. This attention to detail extends to the safety features, where the EX90’s internal radar sensor ensures that no living being—whether human or animal—is accidentally left inside the vehicle.
Advanced Technology for a Safer Ride
Safety has always been at the heart of Volvo’s design philosophy, and the EX90 raises the bar even higher. It’s equipped with an internal radar system that monitors occupants inside the cabin and trunk area. If it detects a pet or person left behind, it will refuse to lock the doors and will alert the driver, preventing potentially life-threatening situations in hot weather.
LiDAR and Sensor Technology
The LiDAR sensor, paired with additional cameras in the door mirrors, prepares the EX90 for the future of autonomous driving. While full self-driving capabilities are not yet available, the vehicle is equipped with all the necessary hardware to support them once regulatory and technological advancements allow. The combination of sensors can already assist with lane-keeping, speed adjustment, and collision avoidance, making it one of the most advanced SUVs in terms of active safety.
Driving Experience: Power Meets Comfort
The Volvo EX90 doesn’t just look good; it performs well, too. Two versions of the car are available at launch: the Twin Motor Ultra and the Twin Motor Performance Ultra. Both are powered by a massive 111 kWh battery, of which 104 kWh is usable. This provides impressive range and power.
The entry-level Twin Motor Ultra offers 408 horsepower and 770 Nm of torque, while the Performance Ultra delivers 517 horsepower and 910 Nm of torque. Despite its considerable size and weight, the EX90 accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds, ensuring a thrilling driving experience without sacrificing luxury and comfort.
Adaptive Air Suspension and Handling
Equipped with adaptive air suspension, the EX90 adjusts effortlessly between soft and firm settings depending on the driving conditions. In its softest mode, the car offers a smooth, comfortable ride perfect for city driving or long-distance cruising. For more spirited driving on winding roads, switching to the firmer suspension setting provides more body control and confidence.
Despite weighing nearly 2.8 tons, the EX90 handles exceptionally well, thanks to its low center of gravity—a byproduct of the battery pack being positioned in the vehicle’s floor. It’s capable of being both a comfortable family hauler and a dynamic SUV when needed, striking an impressive balance between performance and practicality.
Innovative Infotainment and Connectivity
At the heart of the Volvo EX90’s interior is its 14.5-inch central touchscreen, which runs on Android Automotive and is powered by Unreal Engine for a fluid, responsive user interface. The integration of Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play Store means that your digital life can seamlessly extend into your vehicle, with full access to navigation, entertainment, and voice commands.
Bowers & Wilkins Sound System
For audiophiles, the Bowers & Wilkins sound system in the EX90 is a game-changer. Featuring 25 speakers and 1,610 watts of power, this audiophile-grade sound system delivers crystal-clear sound throughout the cabin. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos technology creates a 3D sound experience, with speakers even embedded into the headrests for an immersive listening environment.
Efficiency and Range: What to Expect
Volvo claims that the EX90 can travel up to 374 miles on a single charge under optimal driving conditions, which translates to an energy efficiency of around 3.4 miles per kWh. However, real-world conditions will likely see this range drop, especially if you drive the vehicle more aggressively or make frequent use of its performance capabilities. In more spirited driving conditions, you can expect a range closer to 160-220 miles per charge, depending on driving style and road conditions.
Charging Capabilities
The EX90 supports fast charging, which can take the battery from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes when using a 250kW charger. Home charging via a Level 2 charger will fully charge the battery in roughly 8-12 hours, making overnight charging a convenient option for most users.
Conclusion: A Game-Changing Electric SUV
The Volvo EX90 is a perfect example of where the future of electric vehicles is headed. It combines luxury, performance, and sustainability in a way that feels effortless. From its cutting-edge safety features to its sophisticated infotainment system, this SUV caters to both tech-savvy drivers and environmentally-conscious consumers alike. Whether you’re looking for a spacious family vehicle or a high-performance electric SUV, the Volvo EX90 sets a new standard for what an EV can offer.