Volvo's Chinese Debut: The EM90 - Los Angeles-inspired Luxury Minivan
Volvo's EM90: A Mountainous Exterior Hospitals luxury within
Gearing up to conquer a new horizon, Volvo sets sail in China with the EM90, its maiden voyage into the world of luxury electric minivans. With a keen eye on the elite segment in Shanghai and Beijing, Volvo aims to turn heads with its California-inspired design and proximity to a lounge atmosphere. But beware, this spacious ride might not fare well in city parking lots!
Climb aboard the EM90, and step into a plush living experience, dripping in comfort and luxury. This angular colossus stretches 5.21 meters long and boasts an interior reminiscent of a toned-down furniture store by Ikea, complete with cushy seats that could rival your favorite couch at home.
Embracing the trend of lofty travel in its new homeland, Volvo has crafted the EM90 to cater to the tastes of China's affluent class who prefer standing room and XXL legroom over traditional luxury limousines like a Mercedes-Benz S-Class or S90.
Powering Up and Moving On
Volvo didn't sail this voyage alone – its Chinese parent company, Geely, tagged along and contributed the 009 skateboard platform from sister brand Zeekr, which houses the 116 kWh battery powering the EM90's exhilarating 738km range (CLTC). This battery also offers an impressive charging time of just 28 minutes at 360kW charging stations, making it a swift competitor in the fast-paced charging world.
However, the 272PS and 343Nm rear motor delivery leave much to be desired for performance enthusiasts, with a 0-100km/h dash in 8.3 seconds and a top speed of 180km/h. Thankfully, the electric torque ensures a lively driving experience that passengers may not even crave in the congested roads of Shanghai.
The Art of Relaxation
Volvo has ensured the EM90's driving experience caters to serenity, not speed. The air suspension is cloud-like, allowing for a dreamy commute, while the gentle steering ensures even the greenest driver can navigate this behemoth effortlessly. The speed limiters are set low, and the gentle hum of the engine soothes passengers while they lounge in their reclining seats.
The Swedish ethos extends to the EM90's electronics, where a sleek touch interface controls the ambiance, climate, and entertainment systems. Press a button, and a micro-projector displays movies or live streaming choices right in front of your eyes. Even the table, revealed from the armrest, is perfect for satisfying your working needs on the go.
Space and Comfort for all
Though the luxurious atmosphere caters to the rear passengers, the second row boasts a luxurious leather chair, complete with massage function. The rear bench, while less opulent, still offers roominess and comfort above par for the EM90's class. Full seating doesn't compromise the spacious trunk, which can accommodate 535 liters of cargo or pack down to 2376 liters, perfect for your Billy bookcases.
European Horizon
As of now, Volvo doesn't plan to release the EM90 in Europe, and its hefty 100,000 euros price tag in China would make it the most expensive model in Volvo's lineup. However, the rise of luxury limousines for lounging in European cities may soon prompt a change of heart, and competitors like Mercedes and Lexus have already made their moves in this emerging market.
Volvo could very well seize this opportunity and upturn the European elite's perception of luxury commuting with the EM90's unique fusion of Scandinavian elegance and California-inspired lounge aesthetics. Watch this space, and prepare to dance the tango between work and relaxation.
Dimensions and Weight:
- Length: 5,206 mm (17ft)
- Width: 1,990 mm (78 inches) (2,310 mm (91 inches) including mirrors)
- Height: 1,859 mm (73 inches)
- Wheelbase: 3,205 mm (126 inches)
- Weight: Approximately 2,763 kg (6090 lbs)
Engine:- Rear-mounted electric motor generating 200 kW (268 hp) and 343 Nm of torque- 116 kWh battery providing up to 738 km of range (CLTC)
Performance:- 0-100 km/h: 8.3 seconds- Top speed: 180 km/h (112 mph)
Charging:- Charging power: 360 kW- 10% to 80% charge: 28 minutes (fast charging)
Cost: Estimated cost: 100,000 euros (China)
In the realm of motor vehicle manufacturing, Volvo, a well-known motor vehicle manufacturer, has debuted the EM90 – a luxury electric minivan in China, embodying a lifestyle that affluent consumers in Shanghai and Beijing desire. Crafted with lofty travel in mind, the EM90 combines technology, such as the 009 skateboard platform from Zeekr, for an exhilarating driving experience, while offering a plush living experience with California-inspired design and a Scandinavian twist.
