Volvo's debut of the electric SUV, EX60, slated for January 2026, boasts a structure reminiscent of Tesla's design.
The automotive world is abuzz with anticipation as Volvo prepares to unveil its all-electric EX60 in January 2026. This premium mid-size SUV promises to redefine the electric vehicle (EV) segment with its innovative design, advanced technology, and focus on safety.
### Range and Performance
The EX60 is expected to offer a competitive range in the premium mid-size EV segment, with some configurations potentially reaching up to 398 miles on a single charge. It will be available with both single-motor rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive options, though exact power figures remain speculative. The new SPA3 platform on which the EX60 is built supports an 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling potentially very fast charging speeds.
### Design and Platform
Design-wise, the EX60 is anticipated to be similar in size to the current XC60, approximately 185.4 inches long and 74.9 inches wide. It features a tech-forward interior centred on a large portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system powered by Google's Android Automotive OS, supporting Google Maps, Google Assistant, Google Play Store, and over-the-air software updates.
The EX60 shares the new SPA3 modular and scalable platform with the larger Volvo EX90, which centralises software control through a "superset" electronic control unit (ECU). This allows for real-time over-the-air updates impacting drive systems, safety features, and infotainment.
### Structural and Battery Innovations
The EX60 will introduce Volvo’s first use of structural battery packs, where the battery forms a load-bearing part of the vehicle floor. This increases rigidity, improves packaging, and allows for lower ride heights without compromising cabin space or crash safety.
Volvo employs a single-piece aluminium rear mega-casting (inspired by Tesla's approach) replacing multiple welded components in the rear frame, reducing complexity, production time, and body weight by up to 15%, while improving energy absorption in rear impacts.
### Safety Systems
The EX60 debuts a new “multi-adaptive” seatbelt system that works with Volvo’s evolved crash sensor suite. This system adapts belt tension in real-time to enhance occupant protection during various crash scenarios. The SPA3 architecture integrates advanced safety and software controls into a consolidated ECU, enhancing responsiveness and safety feature management.
In summary, the Volvo EX60 distinguishes itself through its use of structural battery technology for enhanced rigidity and space, an innovative rear mega-casting design for weight reduction and safety, a modular next-gen platform with centralised software control, and advanced adaptive safety systems. These features position the EX60 as a technologically forward, efficient, and safe all-electric SUV in the premium mid-size segment.
The EX60 is built on Volvo's brand-new SPA3 platform, which is the brand's most advanced to date. Volvo aims to increase recycled content in the EX60 from the current 20 per cent. The EX60 will debut Volvo's new multi-adaptive safety belt system, a world-first.
The official unveiling of the EX60 is scheduled in January, with a UK launch planned later next year. It is not yet confirmed if the EX60 will have the same advanced LiDAR suite for semi-autonomous driving as the flagship EX90. The first teaser image of the EX60’s rear-end design has been revealed, showcasing its sleek and modern aesthetic.
- The EX60, positioning itself in the premium mid-size EV segment, aims to offer competitive range with some configurations potentially reaching up to 398 miles on a single charge.
- The EX60's tech-forward interior centers on a large portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system powered by Google's Android Automotive OS.
- Volvo's new SPA3 modular and scalable platform, shared by the EX60 and EX90, centralizes software control through a "superset" electronic control unit (ECU).
- The EX60 debuts Volvo’s first use of structural battery packs, where the battery forms a load-bearing part of the vehicle floor, increasing rigidity and improving packaging.
