The brand’s XC70 revival sees the nameplate return as a hybrid with some seriously impressive long-distance driving capabilities.
By Gray Van Dyke
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Between their improved fuel efficiency and their day-to-day livability, plug-in hybrids offer an ideal compromise for drivers who aren’t ready (or able) to go 100 percent electric. 
However, the US market barely gets to experience a fraction of the full potential of such machines. In China, electric cars are performing increasingly miraculous feats by the day.
Just take Volvo’s new XC70, for instance. 
Built on the Volvo Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA) platform, the new XC70 is the brand’s first long-range plug-in hybrid. 
In practice, this means that it offers an all-electric driving range of over 124 miles per the Chinese test cycle. For perspective, the brand’s longest-range PHEV in the United States can manage around a third of that on battery alone.
And that’s not its only party trick. The new Volvo XC70 also features fast-charging technology that enables the battery to be replenished from zero to 80 percent in just 23 minutes.
Moreover, bi-directional charging capabilities mean the car can be used as a mobile battery to power portable electronics, camping appliances and various other devices.
Now, the most impressive aspect of Volvo’s new extended-range EV, though, would have to be, well, the range. By incorporating a 1.5-liter four-cylinder alongside front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive electric motor configurations, the SUV can reportedly manage more than 745 miles without recharging or refueling.
If the XC70 name rings a bell, it’s because Volvo previously offered the nameplate as part of its lineup before quietly pulling the model in 2016. Before discontinuation, it was a high-riding wagon.
Though the new SUV makes for a considerably different machine, it’s nevertheless a handsome example of Volvo engineering. Along with the distinctive closed front grille typical of the brand’s EVs, it also brings the hammer-shaped headlights and C-shaped taillights.
Beyond a sleek and updated design, the revival of the XC70 also capitalizes on Volvo’s latest and greatest tech. So, in addition to safety-oriented features like driver-assist, this also means that the SUV gets futuristic user interface items like an AI assistant and an augmented reality heads-up display.
Though it’s a bit stark inside (and there’s the unavoidable screen), thankfully, it does include physical buttons on the steering wheel.
For the time being, Volvo’s XC70 release is exclusive to China. However, the brand has stated that it will be bringing the model to Europe in the future.
Hopefully, this means that some of this tech will make its way to the United States soon. Assuming it does, drivers could finally get to experience the EV range revolution.
Currently available for pre-order, pricing is set at ¥299,000 (roughly $42,000). If you’d like to learn more, you can head to the Volvo China website.
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