Electric Cars: The Basics
For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles:
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The All-Electric Volvo EX60 SUV
Sweden has created its fair share of global brands, but none with a reputation as good as Volvo Cars when it comes to passenger safety. Volvo cars is an automotive manufacturer based in Gothenburg, Sweden. The Volvo Group has a long history of success and was established in 1927. Since then the company has had multiple owners, to include the US based, Ford Motor Company. Its current owner is a Chinese automotive behemoth, Geely Automobile, which acquired Volvo Cars in 2010. Geely also owns the automotive brands Lotus Cars and Polestar.
Volvo Cars was one of the first mainstream OEM’s to commit to a push towards zero-tailpipe emission road transportation. In 2017, the company announced its intention to ‘electrify every car in our range’. Volvo is not new to ‘electric propulsion’ and had already deployed a test fleet of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in 2010 and had launched the first plug-in hybrid diesel car in 2012. In March 2021, the company announced its ambition to be a fully electric brand by 2030. The company is also committed to becoming ‘climate neutral’ across the value chain by 2040. The name Volvo is derived from Latin. It means “I roll’. The logo is an ancient chemistry sign for iron, signifying Volvo’s commitment to using high quality iron.
The Volvo electric vehicle (EV) current portfolio includes:
- All-electric Volvo C40 Recharge (BEV)
- All-electric Volvo XC40 Recharge (BEV)
- All-electric Volvo EX30 (BEV)
- All-electric Volvo EX60 (BEV)
- All-electric Volvo EX90 (BEV)
- All-electric Volvo ES90 (BEV)
- Volvo XC40 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
- Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
- Volvo XC90 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
- Volvo S60 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
- Volvo S90 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
- Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
- Volvo V90 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
The mid-size all-electric Volvo EX60 SUV is the latest battery-electric vehicle (BEV) from the Sweden based automotive manufacturer, Volvo, well known for automotive safety and Scandinavian minimalist design. Despite a fiercely competitive electric mobility mid-size SUV segment, the luxurious five-seater Volvo EX60 family electric SUV has much to offer. The Volvo EX60 was unveiled on 21st January 2026 in Stockholm and is intended to replace the very popular Volvo XC60 SUV. The XC60 is the best-selling Volvo of all time, selling 2.7 million units since launch.
The series production of the Volvo EX60 commenced on 22nd April 2026. The EV is being built at Volvo’s manufacturing plant in Torslanda, Sweden. In fact, the EX60 is the first Volvo fully electric vehicle (EV) to be designed, developed and built in Sweden. Deliveries commence in mid 2026 for the standard EX60. In 2027, Volvo will deliver the EX60 Cross Country variant. Volvo claims that the demand for the EX60 has been ‘considerably higher’ than anticipated, resulting in the company increasing production volumes for 2026.
This should not come as a surprise for anyone who has followed the recent news on the significant increase in petrol prices globally. Drivers are fast moving to pure electric cars to mitigate the continued risks of higher fuel prices. We expect this trend of higher petrol/ diesel prices to continue long-term. Bottom-line, pure electric cars offer far lower ownership costs compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) petrol and diesel vehicles, and is the only drivetrain technology to mitigate the risk of fuel price inflation. We encourage all families and businesses to switch to electric driving at the soonest.
Electric cars also offer the lowest profile of life-cycle emissions. In fact, pure electric cars reduce life-cycle emissions up to 70% compared to conventional petrol and diesel vehicles. Moreover, electric cars have zero-tailpipe pollution i.e. improve local air quality! Interestingly, the Volvo EX60 has the lowest carbon footprint of any all-electric Volvo vehicle. A win for the environment and the wallet!
The EX60 electric SUV is the first EV to be built on the new Volvo electric vehicle architecture, the SPA3. Most of the latest-generation of pure electric cars are developed and built on a dedicated EV platform. In general, BEVs built on a dedicated EV platform offer a more compelling proposition compared to electric cars built on a platform shared with internal combustion engine (ICE) models. According to Volvo, the SPA3 sets new standards in scalability, modularity, manufacturing efficiencies and cost.
The family-friendly all-electric EX60 is Volvo’s longest range electric vehicle (EV), offering up to 500 miles on a single charge. The e-SUV is available in three EV battery sizes: 83 kWh, 95 kWh and 117 kWh. All on a 800-Volt electric architecture. Though you maybe tempted to opt for the largest EV battery size and longest range variant, we will caution the enthusiasm. Most day-to-day car journeys are relatively short, and the entry-level 83 kWh battery option has a 611 km WLTP electric range (electric energy consumption: 15.0 kWh/100km). Even adjusting for real-world driving conditions, the 83 kWh should deliver over 525 km on a single charge. More than ample for most family requirements.
For those that need more e-range on a regular basis, the 95 kWh offers up to 660 km WLTP (electric energy consumption: 16.2 kWh/100km) and the 117 kWh up to 810 km WLTP (electric energy consumption: 16.0 kWh/100km). Adjusting for real-world driving, the 95 kWh should deliver up to 575 km and the 117 kWh up to 700 km. For those new to electric driving, a number of factors impact e-range, to include: driving style, speed, road surface, vehicle weight, weather, temperature, terrain, tyre size, regenerative braking profile and more!
The EV battery is a ‘cell-to-body’ integration, which has a number of benefits to include: lower weight, less materials usage, increased efficiency and more internal cabin space. Volvo offers as standard a 10 years or 160,000 km EV battery warranty for the EX60. An increase from 8 years for the previous EV models. A strong signal that automotive manufacturers are gaining more confidence in the long-term performance of EV batteries! The EV also offers an onboard heat pump as standard.
The Volvo EX60 electric SUV incorporates a 22 kW AC onboard charger as standard. Perfect for those with access to three-phase (11/22 kW) EV charging at home, work or public EV charging destinations. At 22 kW AC, the 83 kWh variant can be charged 0%-100% in 8 hours. The 95 kWh variant will take up to 9 hours and the 117 kWh will take up to 12 hours. Single-phase (7.4 kW) EV charging will take longer. The EX60 is also capable of bi-directional charging.
The EV incorporates DC charging up to 400 kW. The entry-level 83 kWh (10%-80%: 16 mins) has up to 350 kW DC charging, while the 95 kWh (10%-80%: 16 mins) and 117 kWh (10%-80%: 19 mins) variants have up to 400 kW DC charging. Charging is optimised by AI and can potentially make charging up to 30% quicker. The EV can add up to 340 km in 10 minutes.
For home charging we recommend the use of a smart EV charger which is solar compatible. We at e-zoomed also encourage EV owners to install on-site (home or business) solar PV and battery storage. It is a fantastic way to leverage the potential for lower cost of ownership of an electric car, and also achieve ‘well-to-wheel’ zero-tailpipe emissions.
The Volvo EX60 is available in three powertrain options. The entry-level 83 kWh is a rear-wheel drive (RWD), while the 95 kWh and 117 kWh variants are all-wheel drive (AWD). The entry-level 83 kWh can achieve 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds (maximum power: 374 HP/ torque: 480 Nm), while the 95 kWh can achieve 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds (maximum power: 510 HP/ torque: 710 Nm). The top-of-the range 117 kWh can achieve 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds (maximum power: 680 HP/ torque: 790 Nm). The EV has four driving modes.
All variants have a top speed up to 180 km/h. The EV incorporates one-pedal driving as standard. For the driver there is good all-round visibility, given the higher driving position. Having said that, the rear visibility could have been better. Also, the lack of physical buttons is a concern.
In terms of dimensions, the Volvo EX60 sits between the all-electric EX90 and all-electric EX40 SUVs. The EX60 is 4.80m long and 1.63m tall (1.99m wide). In comparison, the EX90 is 5.03m long and the EX40 is 4.44m in length. The EX60 EV has a generous 58 L frunk (perfect for storing a shorter length EV cable) and a 523 L boot (up to 1,647 L with rear seats folded down). There is also a 63-litre compartment under the boot floor. The tailgate is power-operated. The five-door family SUV offers ample legroom and headroom for adults seated in the rear.
In terms of technology, the EX60 is Volvo’s most intelligent car yet. The BEV incorporates the latest generation of HuginCore, developed in collaboration with Google, NVIDIA and Qualcomm Technologies Inc. The EV is capable of 254 trillion operations per second (TOPS). The EX60 is also the first Volvo to include the Google Gemini AI assistant. Also included: 11.4″ forward driver display, 15.04″ landscape centre display, 360 degree camera with 3D view, park pilot assist, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
As for the exterior styling, Volvo continues with its signature Scandinavian design philosophy, which we understand may not be to everyones liking. Having said that, approach does help improve the aerodynamic efficiency of the EV. The EX60 has a drag coefficient of 0.26 Cd. In general, the lower the drag coefficient, the higher the vehicle efficiency, the lower the energy consumption, the higher the electric range. You get the point! And yes, the e-SUV has Volvo’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights!
The Volvo EX60 has yet to be awarded the Euro NCAP Safety Rating. But of course, Volvo has a very strong reputation for safety. We expect the EX60 to continue this trend and be awarded a five-star rating. Some of the driving aids and safety features incorporated in the electric vehicle include: advanced sensing technology, blind spot information system, collision avoidance and mitigation, door opening alert, lane keeping aid, pedestrian and cyclists steering avoidance, rear collision warning and more! It is also worth noting that the EX60 is equipped with the world’s first multi-adaptive safety belt.
Is the Volvo EX60 a good car? We believe the premium electric SUV has much to offer, in particular, for those consumers seeking a luxurious, capable and practical zero-tailpipe emission electric SUV. Other options to consider are the all-electric BMW iX3 and the all-electric Mercedes-Benz GLC. However, for those with limited budgets there are other more affordable e-SUV options.
Bottom-line, electric driving is good for the environment and the wallet!
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Available in three EV battery sizes with an e-range up to 810 km | The exterior styling may not appeal to those buyers seeking more |
| 350 kW DC charging as standard. Up to 400 kW DC for top of the line variants. 22 kW AC onboard charger as standard | Entry-level variant does not offer all-wheel drive (AWD) |
| Technology-filled to include Google Gemini AI | Not available as a seven-seater model |
The All-Electric Volvo EX60 SUV (credit: Volvo)
| At A Glance | |
|---|---|
| EV Type: | Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) |
| Vehicle Type: | SUV |
| Engine: | Electric |
| Available In India: | No |
| Trims (3 Options) |
|---|
| Volvo EX60 P6 Electric (from ₹ N/A) |
| Volvo EX60 P10 AWD Electric (from ₹ N/A) |
| Volvo EX60 P12 AWD Electric (from ₹ N/A) |
| EV Battery & Emissions | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Type: | NMC |
| EV Battery Capacity: | Available in three battery sizes: 83 kWh (800 V)/ 95 kWh (800 V)/ 117 kWh (800 V) |
| Charging: | 350-400 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 16-19 mins). Onboard AC charger: 11 kW AC (0%-100%: 8-12 hrs) |
| Charge Port: | Type 2 |
| Charge Port Location: | Rear Left |
| EV Cable Type: | Type 2 |
| Tailpipe Emissions: | 0g (CO2/km) |
| EV Battery Warranty: | 10 years or 160,000 km |
| Charging Times (Overview) | |
|---|---|
| Slow charging AC (3 kW – 3.6 kW): | 6 – 12 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SOC) |
| Fast charging AC (7 kW – 22 kW): | 3 – 8 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Rapid charging AC (43 kW): | 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Rapid charging DC (50 kW+): | 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Ultra rapid charging DC (150 kW+): | 0-80% : 20 mins to 40 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Tesla Supercharger (120 kW – 250 kW): | 0-80%: up to 25 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
- Note 1: SoC: state of charge
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Height (mm): | 1635 |
| Width (mm): | 1993 (mirrors folded) |
| Length (mm): | 4803 |
| Wheelbase (mm): | 2970 |
| Turning Circle (m): | 11 |
| Boot Space (L): | 523 (up to 1,647 L with rear seats folded down) |
| Frunk (L): | 58 |
| P6 Electric | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 83 kWh (800 V) |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP-combined): | 611 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/100km): | 15.0 |
| Km per kWh: | 7.36 |
| Charging: | 350 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 16 mins). Onboard AC charger: 22 kW AC (0%-100%: 8 hrs 0 mins) |
| Top Speed: | 180 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive: | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 275 |
| Horsepower (hp): | 374 |
| Torque (Nm): | 480 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Weight (kg): | 2,189 |
| Towing Capacity (Braked/Unbraked)/ (kg): | 2,000 |
| Colours: | 8 |
| NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
| Insurance: | N/A |
| P10 AWD Electric | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 95 kWh (800 V) |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP-combined): | 660 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/100km): | 16.2 |
| Km per kWh: | 6.94 |
| Charging: | 400 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 16 mins). Onboard charger: 22 kW AC (0%-100%: 9 hrs 0 mins) |
| Top Speed: | 180 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive: | All-wheel drive (AWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 375 |
| Horsepower (hp): | 510 |
| Torque (Nm): | 710 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Weight (kg): | 2,350 |
| Towing Capacity (Braked/Unbraked)/ (kg): | 2,400 |
| Colours: | 8 |
| NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
| Insurance: | N/A |
| P12 AWD Electric | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 117 kWh (800 V) |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 810 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (kWh/100km): | 16.0 |
| Km per kWh: | 6.92 |
| Charging: | 400 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 19 mins). Onboard AC charger: 22 kW AC (0%-100%: 12 hrs 0 mins) |
| Top Speed: | 180 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 3.9 seconds |
| Drive: | All-wheel drive (AWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 500 |
| Horsepower (hp): | 680 |
| Torque (Nm): | 790 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Weight (kg): | 2,405 |
| Towing Capacity (Braked/Unbraked)/ (kg): | 2,400 |
| Colours: | 8 |
| NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
| Insurance: | N/A |
Air Quality: An Overview
If there is one common theme that unites many of us, it is the concern over worsening air quality in our villages, towns and cities. This concern is not unique to India, rather a narrative that is now firmly centre stage globally. The detrimental health consequences of higher air pollution, in particular, on the vulnerable, like children and the elderly is significant, and well documented.
The WHO (World Health Organisation) has described air pollution as the ‘single biggest environmental health risk’, leading to an increase in the risk of stroke, heart disease, lung cancer and respiratory diseases. Electric vehicles and in particular, zero-tailpipe emission EVs, also known as battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), help improve local air quality i.e. a pure electric car does not have a tailpipe/ exhaust, hence, zero-tailpipe emissions!
Without an iota of doubt, all types of EVs, to include, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are better for improving air quality, compared to conventional petrol and diesel internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. We encourage all drivers in India to migrate to lower emission electric driving!
| Type Of Pollutants |
|---|
| Particulate matter (PM or PM 2.5) |
| Ammonia (NH3) |
| Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) |
| Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) |
| Non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCS) |
| Primary Sources Of Pollutants |
|---|
| Road transportation |
| Industrial processes |
| Farming and agricultural processes |
| Waste industry |
| Energy generation |
| Domestic burning |
| Other forms of transportation, such as aviation, shipping and railroads |
While e-zoomed uses reasonable efforts to provide accurate and up-to-date information, some of the information provided is gathered from third parties and has not been independently verified by e-zoomed. While the information from the third party sources is believed to be reliable, no warranty, express or implied, is made by e-zoomed regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information. This disclaimer applies to both isolated and aggregate uses of this information.


























