Volvo is set to unveil its China-made electric vehicles, the EX90 and ES90, at a 99th-anniversary event on April 15th. These launches mark a significant step in Volvo’s electrification strategy, particularly within the crucial Chinese market. The EX90, first seen in regulatory filings over a year ago, and previewed in 2022, will finally enter production for Chinese consumers.
EX90: A Yacht-Inspired SUV
The EX90 is built on Volvo’s SPA2 platform and carries the brand’s signature design cues. The vehicle features a closed grille, “Thor’s Hammer” headlights, and vertically-integrated LED daytime running lights. Its side profile boasts hidden door handles and design lines inspired by yacht aesthetics. With a drag coefficient of 0.29 Cd, the EX90 aims for aerodynamic efficiency, and will be available with a two-tone exterior option.
Key dimensions: 5037mm (length), 1964mm (width), 1742mm (height) with a 2985mm wheelbase.
The EX90 powertrain will be offered in two variants:
- Low-power: 232hp (front motor) + 170hp (rear motor)
- High-power: 241hp (front motor) + 268hp (rear motor)
Both configurations will utilize ternary lithium batteries.
ES90: Next-Gen Electric Performance
The ES90 showcases Volvo’s latest design language, emphasizing a sleek and dynamic profile. The front features a closed grille, and the “Thor’s Hammer” headlights now incorporate a matrix design. Notably, the ES90 will be available with an optional LiDAR system for advanced driver assistance. LiDAR-equipped models include one LiDAR sensor, five millimeter-wave radars, seven cameras, and twelve ultrasonic sensors, all powered by dual Nvidia Drive AGX Orin chips delivering 508 TOPS of computing power.
Dimensions: 5000mm (length), 1942mm (width), 1547mm (height) with a 3102mm wheelbase.
The ES90 is also Volvo’s first model built on an 800V high-voltage platform, resulting in significant upgrades to battery cells, electric drive systems, inverters, charging systems, and thermal management. This platform enables charging from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes at a maximum power of 350kW, achieving a single-charge range exceeding 700km.
Volvo is prioritizing fast charging and long range with the ES90, directly addressing key consumer demands in the competitive EV market.
Why This Matters
Volvo’s moves in China are critical. The Chinese EV market is the world’s largest and fastest-growing. Launching models like the EX90 and ES90 locally is essential for Volvo to remain competitive against domestic rivals such as BYD, Nio, and Xpeng. The long delays in bringing the EX90 to China, as noted by industry observers, are unusual given the market’s pace. The vehicles’ advanced technology, particularly the ES90’s LiDAR integration and fast-charging capabilities, position Volvo as a premium EV contender.
These launches signal Volvo’s commitment to electrification in the most important EV market globally. The timing is crucial as Chinese regulations are evolving rapidly, and consumer preferences are shifting towards advanced features and longer ranges.
