Rockleigh, N.J. (April 14, 2015) – Volvo Cars will bring the world’s first seven passenger plug-in hybrid electric vehicle to the United States this summer with the XC90 T8 Twin Engine. Powered by Volvo’s 2.0 liter supercharged and turbocharged Drive-E engine and a rear axle electric motor, the T8 can achieve 394 horsepower and 0-60 MPH in just 5.7 seconds.
With uncompromising performance and flexibility, drivers can choose to operate the T8 in a variety of modes, including:
- Hybrid: As the default mode, it is suitable for everyday use and the XC90 will automatically alternate between drawing power from the 2.0 liter supercharged and turbocharged Drive-E engine and the electric motor to deliver the optimum overall fuel economy.
- Pure electric: This mode is used primarily in a city environment although it can power the car up to highway speeds. When the high-voltage battery is fully charged, it serves as the car’s sole energy source, powering the electric motor over the rear axle. Preliminary testing based on EPA criteria produced an estimated range of 17 miles using just electricity, which represents a high percentage of drivers’ typical daily usage.
- Power mode: This utilizes the combined performance of the combustion engine and the electric motor. On start-up, the XC90 T8 takes advantage of the electric motor’s superior response and instant torque curve, while the combustion engine gets up to speed. This combination offers better torque at lower revs, which is equivalent to that of a large displacement engine.
Because of the XC90 T8’s plug-in hybrid battery technology, consumers may be eligible for a federal tax credit up to an estimated $4,600 in addition to other local and state incentives. T8 customers should consult a tax professional to determine eligibility.
The XC90 T8 combines the best of Scandinavian craftsmanship and style with uncompromising performance and interior enhancements. Each T8 features “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights, power front seat cushion extensions, high level interior illumination and a hand blown Orrefors® crystal gear shift. The MSRP of the XC90 T8 Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid Momentum is $68,100, not including any tax credit incentives or $995 destination charge.
The XC90 T8 Inscription provides an even higher level of luxury and elegance. Linear wood inlays, luxurious Nappa leather seats, dashboard and door panels provide the ultimate Scandinavian sanctuary for drivers and passengers. Rear exterior chrome accents and mirror covers accompany a unique, silver matte front grill. The MSRP of the XC90 T8 Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid Inscription is $71,600, not including any tax credit incentives or $995 destination charge.
The XC90 T8 R-Design highlights the car’s sporty performance with external features including a piano black front grille, R-Design lower front spoiler, dual integrated tail pipes and matte silver mirror covers and window trim. A performance-focused interior design awaits drivers with Nubuck and Nappa leather contour seats, steering wheel gear shift paddles, a perforated leather gear shift and steering wheel. The MSRP of the XC90 T8 Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid R-Design is $70,000, not including any tax credit incentives or $995 destination charge.
The XC90 has already received tremendous praise by customers and industry leaders. After winning this year’s prestigious Red Dot “Best of the Best” Product Design Award, preorders approached 24,000 cars globally; this is approximately half of the first year’s expected volume.
The XC90 T8 is expected to arrive at Volvo retailers in North America this fall, but test drives of the XC90 T6 will be available at Volvo retailers shortly.
