Volvo Reveals XC70 PHEV for China; Will Consider Other Markets

• The new XC70 looks like a stretched version of the current XC60.

• The XC70 is base on the SMA platform.

Will it come to North America? That’s the question people have been asking ever since the Swedish-born automaker released the first shadowy images of its new XC70, a plug-in hybrid with extended range. For now, Volvo is talking about the Chinese market, with the possibility of exploring other regions at a later date.

Built on the Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA) platform, this sleek blend of wagon and SUV bears a strong resemblance to the current XC60, but with a visibly longer wheelbase. Its all-electric range is claimed to be 200 km, according to China’s CLTC standards.

“The XC70 marks our strategic entry into the extended-range plug-in hybrid segment, a perfect bridge to full electrification,” says Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Cars. “It enables us to maintain and develop a balanced product portfolio, while offering a highly attractive alternative to customers who are not yet ready for fully electric cars. This is also an example of regionalisation, where we adapt to the local market needs.”

From these first images, it’s clear the XC70 adopts the design language of Volvo’s electric models, including a fully closed front panel where the badge sits. However, lower-mounted shutters allow the combustion powertrain to “breathe” when needed.

The concept behind this first extended-range plug-in hybrid is to enjoy the silent, zero-emission drive of the electric side as much as possible. But with a combustion alternative onboard, range anxiety is significantly reduced.

The question now is whether Volvo is truly eyeing the North American market—or whether market conditions will prevent the brand from launching in the U.S. and Canada. We’ll likely find out more in the weeks and months ahead.