It looks like Volvo might launch a new electric vehicle that might be based on a different platform than its current models. The upcoming crossover is rumored to be between the XC60 and XC90. According to media reports, production is expected to start in 2024, and later around 100,000 units are to be built per year.

Like Automotive News learned from two insiders, the model developed under the code name V546 will be based on a new platform. However, it is unconfirmed whether Volvo will use its own EV platform or parent company Geely’s SEA.

According to the report, the new model will be built in China from 2024 and also at the US plant in South Carolina from 2025. A combined annual production of 100,000 units is expected, with 60% in China and 40% in the United States.

Regarding the size of the vehicle, the second generation XC60 is about 4.70 meters long, while the XC90 of the generation built since 2015 is 4.95 meters long. It has already been confirmed that the XC90 will have an all-electric successor in the form of a model that will probably be called “Embla”. However, it remains to be seen whether this vehicle will be a bit larger and break through the five meter mark or whether the V546 will be significantly closer to the Embla than was previously the case with the XC60. It’s also unclear whether the XC60 will be replaced in its size class by an electric SUV or discontinued given the slightly larger crossover – if the inside information is correct. Volvo declined to comment. Automotive News.

What is clear is that Volvo Cars intends to convert its Ridgeville plant in the US state of South Carolina into a production facility for all-electric cars, as reported. In addition, we already know that the production of the Polestar 3 electric SUV for the American market will start there this year, as already officially announced. In addition, the all-electric successor to the Volvo XC90 will be built.

The V546 could compete with the Tesla Model Y based on the data known so far. The model, built for the US market in Fremont and more recently in Austin, is 4.75 meters long and, with its curved roofline, is not a classic SUV either, but the concept is well received in the States. United and around the world. It therefore seems obvious to develop an electric crossover with a similar orientation and to position the Embla as the successor to the seven-seater XC90 as a larger model with a utility orientation above.

Volvo is known to only want to sell electric cars from 2030 and is gradually transforming its models and factories to achieve this. This week, the Swedish company not only announced the construction of a 50 GWh battery plant in Gothenburg with its partner Northvolt, but also significant upgrades to the main plant in Torslanda.

With reporting by Sebastian Schaal, Germany.

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