At 2012 Detroit Motor Show Volvo will unveil this plug-in hybrid version of the XC60, a meeting point for some incredible numbers.
Volvo’s ingenious hybrid system is literally a no-compromise solution. It consists of a VEA (Volvo Environmental Architecture) four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline with 280 horsepower and maximum torque of 380 Nm (280 lb.-ft.). It powers the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
The back wheels are driven by an electric motor producing 70 horsepower. It is supplied with power from a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed under the floor of the load compartment. There is also an Integrated Starter motor and Generator (ISG) somewhere in the middle connected to the crankshaft, which provides an additional 34 kW (45 hp) during acceleration, and also charges the battery during braking.
So there’s loads of power, and the car’s effectively four-wheel-drive, and that means it has capabilities of any regular SUV. But it’s main advantage is the fuel economy and CO2 emission, given the performance it delivers.
The XC60 hybrid has three driving modes: Power, Hybrid and Pure.
In Power mode everything is used for maximum performance and you can do 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Hybrid mode is something in between with combined fuel economy 50mpg of total operating range of up to 600 miles (960 km). In European NEDC tests the car does 53 g/km which means fuel economy of 2.3 liter/100 km or over mpg. In pure mode you run solely on electricity with a range of 35 American miles or 45 European kilometers.
So unlike the conventional hybrids and EVs, this Volvo doesn’t force you into an Eco drive. It gives you the choice with its driving modes. You can either have full power or zero emissions at the touch of a button. Brilliant.
The Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept is painted in a special white color and the 21-inch wheels. The car also features Volvo Sensus infotainment system with advanced navigation and mobile apps to keep you connected and help you with your green driving efforts.
Expect to see a production version of this car in a year or so.