Volvo revives the XC70 name with EREV SUV

Volvo is bringing back a familiar name: the XC70. For years, the XC70 was known as a tough, go-anywhere version of their V70 wagon. However, this time around, things are different. The new XC70 is now a sport utility vehicle, or SUV.

This new electrified SUV is being designed with drivers in China in mind first. But Volvo has suggested that it might become available in other countries later on. While the company calls the XC70 its first "extended-range plug-in hybrid," this isn't their first vehicle that can run on both electricity and gasoline.

Details about what powers the new XC70 are not fully public yet. However, Volvo says this SUV will be able to travel up to 124 miles using only electric power. It's important to note that this number comes from a Chinese testing process, which tends to be more generous than testing in other parts of the world.

The new XC70 will be built using Volvo's Scalable Modular Architecture, or SMA. This design allows for "fast charging capabilities," meaning drivers should be able to quickly add more electric driving range.

Like the original XC70 wagon, Volvo states that this new SUV will continue to be a versatile vehicle for families, ready for all sorts of adventures. Even though it has changed from a wagon to an SUV, it will be a bit bigger and offer more space inside than the current XC60 SUV.

The design of the new XC70 includes familiar touches from other Volvo models. At the front, it features the distinctive "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and a large, dark-colored grille that can open and close to help with efficiency. The side profile looks a bit sleeker than the larger EX90, with a rear window that slopes down more sharply. At the back, the XC70 has C-shaped taillights that are built into the rear window.

According to Håkan Samuelsson, Volvo's president and chief executive, the XC70 marks their entry into the "extended-range plug-in hybrid segment." He believes it will help Volvo offer a good mix of vehicles, appealing to customers who aren't quite ready to switch to fully electric cars yet. He also pointed out that building this EREV for the Chinese market first is an example of adapting to the needs of different regions.

Volvo plans to share more information about the new XC70 in the coming months, including details about its price and when it will be available.

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