Soaring Comfort on Wheels: Volvo EM90 - Deluxe Electric Van
Volvo's EM90 model: A towering, impressive structure outfitted with luxurious interior elements.
Think Volvo, and spacious, old-school station wagons likely cross your mind. But in a grand shift, the Swedes are stepping into new horizons, constructing their first van – exclusively for the Chinese market, for now. Pondering a global debut, this chunky, plush luxury vehicle would undoubtedly leave a mark in the hearts of many – albeit, perhaps not when it comes to parking spots.
Upon entering the Volvo EM90, you are greeted with a level of opulence surpassing your living room, boasting plush interiors that are reminiscent of a high-end furniture store, packed with more electronics than a retail store like MediaMarkt, and spacious enough to accommodate a hotel suite.
Being the first van from Gothenburg to cater to the escalating demand for luxurious space in China, the ELM90 is the Swedes' answer to the trend. The urban elite, residing in Shanghai or Beijing, are gradually waving goodbye to traditional, grand luxury cars like an S-Class or an S90, favoring standing room and expansive legroom instead.
Bridging Distance with Power and Endurance
Currently, the collaboration between Volvo and their Chinese parent company, Geely, is a driving force behind the EM90. Using the Zeekr 009 as the foundation, it provides a skateboard platform fitted with an 116kWh battery. This energy-efficient powerhouse yields an impressive range of 738 kilometers, according to the less dynamic Chinese cycle, and can also perform admirably at fast-charging stations, with 360kW charging capacity allowing a 10 to 80% charge in just 28 minutes.
In terms of acceleration, the EM90 may not grab headlines at 272 PS; however, the motor's nearly instantaneous torque of 343 Nm ensures a dynamic driving experience, regardless of whether passengers find themselves clasping recliners or not. From 0 to 100 in 8.3 seconds, top speed of 180 km/h – these numbers cater to the calm, slow-paced traffic of Chinese cities, emphasizing relaxation, not breakneck speeds.
Coming to a Standstill - in Maximum Comfort
As speed is less valued in the throbbing pulse of Shanghai, deceleration and serenity reigned supreme. Swedish engineers have programmed the air suspension to feel cloud-soft and the steering to be gentle enough for navigating the giant vehicle through city highways without much effort, allowing drivers to glide through the region like a dream.
A Swedish Symphony of Calm and Coziness
While the workmanship, construction, and tuning of the Volvo EM90 originates from China, the atmosphere emanates Swedish elegance in every corner. The restrained, understated design and soothing, warm austerity create a welcoming ambiance reminiscent of one's favorite Swedish furniture store – yet its comfort is ready and waiting, no assembly required.
A Glimpse into the Future of Work and Relaxation
Electric sliding doors hum open via a touch, granting access to climate-controlled, reclining seats designed to pamper your back. Bringing flexibility to the driver's seat, the cabin includes a table from the armrest for those who prefer multitasking or working while on the move.
However, if one opts to unwind, the EM90's onboard infotainment, presented at eye-level, invites passengers to indulge in movies, streaming, or Chinese digital wonders.
Featuring touch strips with illuminated symbols or small displays elegantly integrated into the doors, the EM90’s rear equipment operation is notably streamlined. Prospectively, Volkswagen could draw inspiration from this practical and aesthetically pleasing setup with their sliders.
Relaxation and comfort are prioritized, with roomy second-row seats offering luxury to your lower back. Although the rear bench seat may not meet the same standards, this van's expansive wheelbase of 3.21 meters ensures it's more comfortable than most second rows within other Volvo models.
Whether fully seated or loaded with furniture, the EM90 maintains cargo capacity with its 535 liters of trunk space always at the ready. In a pinch, you could store a whopping 2,376 liters and transport multiple Billy bookcases, albeit leaving just 29 liters available for the frunk.
As of now, the Volvo EM90 has not been confirmed for western markets. Given its hefty price tag of at least 100,000 euros in China, it holds the title of the most expensive model in its fleet. But as the rich continue to embrace luxury vehicles for lounging and standing, the Europe's luxury car market is warming to the possibility of such vehicles.
Notably, Lexus has already ventured into our shores with the LM, and Mercedes-Benz has hinted at the V-Class's future transformation into a First-Class Lounge on Wheels, present in Shanghai. Should the Swedes smartly act upon this trend, they may beat the Germans to the release of the EM90 in the West. But what the future holds remains to be seen, and it seems that the days of cramped luxury might well be numbered.
Volvo EM90 - Technical Specifications
- Layout: Six-seater van with sliding doors
- Dimensions: 5.21 meters (length), 1.99 meters (width), 1.86 meters (height), 3.21 meters (wheelbase), 535–2,376 + 29 liters (trunk and frunk volume)
- Powertrain: Electric motor with 200kW/272 PS, 343 Nm maximum torque, rear-wheel-drive, automatic transmission
- Performance: 0-100 km/h: 8.3 seconds, Vmax: 180 km/h
- Battery Capacity: 116 kWh, estimated range: 738 kilometers (CLTC), consumption: 17.2 liters/100 kilometers
- Price: Starting from approximately 100,000 euros (China)
Sources: ntv.de, Benjamin Bessinger, sp-x
- Volvo Models
- Car Manufacturers
- Luxury Electric MPV/Van
- The motor vehicle manufacturer, Volvo, is manufacturing a deluxe electric van called the EM90, catering to the Chinese market.
- The Volvo EM90 features more electronics than MediaMarkt, plush interiors reminiscent of a high-end furniture store, and spacious enough to accommodate a hotel suite.
- The first van from Gothenburg, the EM90, is a response to the growing demand for luxurious space in China.
- The Volvo EM90 uses an 116kWh battery and has an impressive range of 738 kilometers, allowing for 360kW fast-charging.
- The EM90 provides a dynamic driving experience, with nearly instantaneous torque of 343 Nm, despite having a top speed of 180 km/h.
- Swedish engineers have created a cloud-soft air suspension and gentle steering for the Volvo EM90, prioritizing relaxation and ease of navigation.
- The Volvo EM90, with its understated Swedish design and comfort, could influence Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen in creating luxurious, electric MPVs and vans for western markets.
