Volvo Revives XC70 Nameplate with Extended-Range Hybrid Powertrain

Volvo has announced the revival of its XC70 nameplate, previously associated with a rugged, high-riding wagon, for an all-new plug-in hybrid crossover aimed initially at the Chinese market. This new XC70 is billed as an “extended-range plug-in hybrid” with a notable electric-only driving range.

Impressive Electric-Only Range

Volvo states that the new XC70 boasts a pure electric driving range of up to 124 miles (200 kilometers) based on the CLTC (China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle) standard. This electric range is significantly higher than that of the similarly sized Volvo XC60 PHEV. While initially designed for China, Volvo has indicated it will explore “potential additional markets at a later stage,” suggesting a possible future release in Europe and potentially other regions.   

Potential Powertrain and Performance

While Volvo has been tight-lipped about the specifics of the XC70’s powertrain, there is speculation it could share components with the Lynk & Co 08, another Geely-owned brand, which offers an identical quoted CLTC electric range. The Lynk & Co 08 features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a dual electric motor setup, producing a combined output of 585 hp and 667 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration in 4.6 seconds. The 08 also utilizes a substantial 39.5-kilowatt-hour battery and supports DC fast charging, allowing a 10-80% charge in 33 minutes, with a total claimed range (including fuel) of 683 miles (1,100 km).

However, there is also a possibility that the XC70 could feature a true range extender powertrain, a technology that Geely and Renault’s Horse powertrain subsidiary are known to be developing.

Built on New SMA Architecture

The new XC70 is built on a platform called SMA (Scalable Modular Architecture), which Volvo describes as a “premium extended-range plug-in hybrid architecture.” This is the first time Volvo has mentioned this specific platform, and details regarding its relationship to the company’s other architectures, such as CMA Evo, or platforms within the wider Geely group, remain limited.

Design Cues and Size

In terms of design, the new XC70 appears to share styling elements with the larger, all-electric Volvo EX90, albeit with slightly different proportions. Volvo notes that the XC70 is “slightly larger and more spacious than the Volvo XC60,” hinting at its positioning within the lineup. The design includes familiar Volvo features such as the “Thor’s Hammer” LED daytime running lights and distinctive C-shaped taillights. The closed-off grille, similar to Volvo’s electric models, suggests a focus on aerodynamic efficiency, potentially aided by an integrated shutter.

Strategic Importance

Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson emphasized the strategic significance of the XC70, stating, “The XC70 marks our strategic entry into the extended-range plug-in hybrid segment, a perfect bridge to full electrification. It enables us to maintain and develop a balanced product portfolio while offering a highly attractive alternative to customers who are not yet ready for fully electric cars. This is also an example of regionalisation, where we adapt to the local market needs.”

The XC70’s comeback highlights Volvo’s response to rising demand for long-range plug-in hybrids, especially in China, and could offer some relief amid its current challenges. Volvo plans to release more details about the new XC70 in the coming months.