Volvo Embla could replace the XC90. Volvo is in the midst of what is probably the biggest transformation in its entire history as an automobile manufacturer. The premium firm of Swedish origin, in the hands of the Chinese group Geely for more than a decade, aims to sell exclusively 100% electric vehicles by 2030.
This rapid transition to electric mobility will be accompanied by a new sales model, which will become direct and online. However, Volvo says that this move will not lead to the closure of any of its dealerships, which will be transformed into the exhibition, test, and service centers.
In parallel, its sports brand Polestar continues to grow at a good pace: by the end of next year the young firm will have a presence in thirty markets (including Spanish); In addition, between 2022 and 2024 it will launch three new electric models (Polestar 3, Polestar 4 and Polestar 5) to complement the current Polestar 2, forming a range solid enough to stand up to heavyweights like Porsche.
To reflect the enormous changes it will undergo throughout this decade, Volvo has decided to abandon the alphanumeric naming system used to name its cars so far. The first model to break with this tradition will be the replacement for the XC90, which will feature 100% electric versions.
The Volvo Embla will have a sporty brother, the Polestar 3
Hakan Samuelsson, the Volvo CEO, has confirmed that the name of the replacement for the XC90 will begin with a vowel. Given that in the last four years the only name registered by the brand that begins with a vowel is “Embla”, we understand that this will be the nomenclature chosen to name the new flagship of the company.
Embla refers to the name of the first woman created by the gods in Norse mythology; therefore, it will be a tribute to the brand’s Scandinavian roots. This could give us a clue as to the future names Volvo will use, which could draw on Swedish tradition and pay homage to Norse myths (in fact, the light signature currently used on its vehicles is called ‘Thor’s hammer).
The Volvo Embla will sit on the SPA2 platform, an evolution of the XC90’s SPA. This modular architecture will allow the company to offer thermal, plug-in hybrid, and 100% electric powertrains. Its aesthetics will be inspired by the Concept Recharge prototype, so it will be a crossover between a station wagon and an SUV to use. In addition, it will be available in versions of up to seven seats.
Among other things, the Volvo Embla is expected to feature an advanced infotainment system powered by the Android Automotive OS operating system. In addition, it will incorporate as standard a LiDAR sensor from Luminar origin, as well as a CPU with the NVIDIA Drive Orin SoC, which will allow you to enjoy a complete arsenal of advanced driving assistants.
