Volvo Cars has unveiled a new game-changing strategy that will drive the future of its electric vehicles, starting with the EX90 and continuing with future models. During Volvo Cars' Capital Markets Day, held in Gothenburg, Sweden, on 6 September 2024, the company announced its intention to base all future electric cars on a single, scalable technology stack: the Volvo Cars Superset tech stack. This unified technology base includes systems, modules, hardware, and software that will underpin all future models, streamlining development and allowing Volvo to deliver improved performance across its range.

The Volvo Cars Superset Tech Stack

SPA3: The Next-Generation Electric Platform

The New and Improved Volvo XC90

A New-Generation User Experience

The Fully Electric Volvo EX90

Looking Ahead

"The EX90 is the best car we have ever made,"

Jim Rowan, Volvo Cars CEO

The EX90 is built on Volvo’s next-generation electric platform and features cutting-edge technology such as an in-car AI computer powered by NVIDIA DRIVE, advanced sensors for safety, and regular over-the-air software updates that improve the car’s features over time. With up to 600 kilometers of driving range, the EX90 is designed to be the safest car Volvo has ever made.

The Superset tech stack will be a modular system that allows Volvo to enhance its vehicles continuously, ensuring they get better over time. As Volvo develops each new car, improvements to one model will benefit the entire lineup. For instance, advancements made in the EX90 will be carried over to the ES90 and future models like the EX60.

Building on the success of the SPA2 platform, Volvo is developing the SPA3 platform as the foundation for its future electric models, beginning with the upcoming EX60 midsize SUV. SPA3 is more scalable and modular than its predecessor, allowing for flexibility in car sizes, from compact SUVs to large vehicles. This new platform also features enhanced core computing capabilities, ensuring higher performance and easier future upgrades.

As part of Volvo’s ongoing commitment to excellence, the latest version of the XC90 hybrid SUV was also unveiled. Known for its safety, comfort, and hybrid efficiency, the new XC90 is now better than ever. It boasts over 70 kilometers of electric range on a single charge, making it an outstanding choice for environmentally conscious drivers.

In addition to hardware upgrades, Volvo is also rolling out a new-generation user experience for its cars. This system, first introduced in the EX90 and EX30, will be made available to millions of existing Volvo drivers worldwide via an over-the-air software update in 2025. It represents one of the most comprehensive infotainment updates in the industry and will simplify access to key features like navigation, media, and phone controls, making it easier for drivers to stay focused on the road.

Volvo’s flagship all-electric SUV, the EX90, is now on the road, with the first batch of deliveries scheduled for September 2024. This marks the start of a new era for Volvo, with the EX90 embodying the company's commitment to safety, sustainability, and human-centric technology.

Volvo’s unified tech stack, scalable SPA3 platform, and new-generation user experience mark a bold step forward in the company's journey towards full electrification. With the EX90 and the XC90 leading the charge, Volvo is well-positioned to continue its legacy of safety, quality, and innovation in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape. As Volvo transitions to an all-electric future, the company remains committed to making cars that not only meet but exceed customer expectations, ensuring that each new model is better than the last.

Anders Bell, Volvo Cars’ Chief Engineering & Technology Officer, highlighted the transformative nature of this approach: “Our engineers will focus on one superset, constantly improving its capabilities. This allows for dramatically improved quality, faster time-to-market, and better cars for our customers.”

The Superset approach also brings Volvo closer to its vision of a data-driven, closed-loop development process that will lead to ongoing advancements in everything from safety to performance. By leveraging data from customers’ driving experiences, Volvo can implement real-time improvements to its vehicles.

The modularity of SPA3, combined with the Superset tech stack, will significantly reduce production costs. Volvo’s Torslanda plant in Sweden has been upgraded to facilitate this new approach, with a focus on using the same key components across all models. This reduces complexity and enhances flexibility, driving down production costs while maintaining high quality.

The XC90 has received several design updates, both inside and out. The exterior now reflects Volvo’s transition towards full electrification, while the interior has been upgraded with a new user experience inspired by the all-electric EX90 and EX30 models. A larger, higher-resolution touchscreen and over-the-air software updates ensure that the XC90 remains at the cutting edge of technology.

Volvo Cars CEO Jim Rowan emphasized the continued appeal of the XC90, stating, “Whether it’s comfort, space, luxury, or hybrid efficiency, the XC90 delivers on all accounts.” The XC90 remains an important part of Volvo’s global portfolio, providing a bridge to full electrification while maintaining strong sales and profitability.

The new user interface will be adapted to fit different screen sizes and layouts, ensuring a consistent experience across models. Whether driving a new XC90 or a three-year-old XC40, Volvo customers can expect an improved, intuitive in-car experience.

Jim Rowan personally tested the EX90 across the United States, praising its charging capabilities, handling, ride comfort, and advanced technology. "The EX90 is the best car we have ever made," said Rowan. “It’s the start of a new era for Volvo Cars, and it begins now.”

Notably, the EX90 is the first Volvo car to feature bi-directional charging, allowing customers to contribute to a more sustainable energy grid. It also offers the world’s first Abbey Road Studios mode, available with the optional Bowers & Wilkins top-level audio system.