5 things to know about the upcoming Volvo ES90 EV

Volvo currently offers a range of smart electric SUVs in Malaysia, but now the Sweden-based automaker has its first-ever electric sedan up its sleeve for us. We are talking about the Volvo ES90 that is ready to hit the local roads in the early part of next year.

In a recent media briefing, Volvo Cars’ Managing Director for Malaysia and Thailand, Chris Wailes, confirmed the ES90 arrival for 2026. 

In today’s article, we will be discussing 5 important things you should know about the upcoming  Volvo ES90 EV, so let’s get started.

Shares underpinnings with the EX90

The upcoming EV is based on Volvo’s modular SPA2 (Scalable Product Architecture 2), which we can also find under the EX90 SUV. The said platform is an evolved form of the automaker’s original SPA platform and is built from the ground up to support full electrification, high-performance computing, and advanced safety systems.

Goes farther and charges faster than any Volvo before

The ES90 is the brand’s first passenger EV to use an 800V architecture, helping to unlock faster charging, a better overall performance and more efficiency. It goes further and charges faster than any electric Volvo before, claims the automaker.

The EV is offered in three different drivetrains - Single motor (RWD), twin Motor (AWD) and twin Motor performance (AWD). The RWD trim comes paired with a 92 kW battery while the AWD models feature a 106 kWh unit, offering a driving range of up to 700 kilometres under the WLTP testing cycle. 

The ES90 supports ultra-fast charging and takes less time spent plugged in compared to previous Volvo EVs. It can add 300 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes at 350 kW fast charging stations.

Strong safety net 

Volvo cars are known for their safety quotient, and the ES90 is no exception. Designed to help protect everyone in and around the car, the EV meets rigorous Volvo Cars Safety Standards. It features a strong safety cage, state-of-the-art restraint systems, and optimised deformation zones. 

The EV is equipped with an advanced array of safety and driver-assistance features backed by seven cameras, five radars, twelve ultrasonic sensors, and a lidar from Luminar Technologies. The advanced systems not only support you when driving, but also when you are parked with alerts for door openings and a full-cabin sensor that can detect tiny movements like a sleeping baby, so no one gets left behind.

Brimming with tech 

The ES90 is the first Volvo model to be powered by a dual NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin configuration, making it the brand’s most powerful car in terms of core computing capacity. It offers cutting-edge features, possibly more than what someone typically expects, giving it a high-tech, future-ready appeal. Some key features include - 

• New-generation 14.5-inch infotainment system with Google built-in, offering services such as Google Maps, Google Assistant and more 
• Bowers & Wilkins sound system with 25 separate high-fidelity speakers, including headrest and ceiling speakers
• 9-inch display driver display
• 13.2-inch head-up display
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Six interior ambient light themes for sensory well-being 
• A four-zone climate system with an advanced air purifier; it can stop up to 95 per cent of PM 2.5 particulates from entering the cabin and remove 99.9 per cent of grass, tree and pollen allergens.
• NFC smart key
• Electrochromic Panoramic roof with transparency adjustment feature

Built for a greener future

The ES90 also sets new standards when it comes to sustainability. It uses recycled and natural materials that contribute to lower CO2 emissions in production. For example - 

• 29 per cent of all aluminium and 18 per cent of all steel used is recycled
• 16 per cent of recycled polymers and bio-based materials are used
• Wood panels made from FSC-certified wood

The upcoming Volvo features battery passport technology, based on blockchain, allowing EV owners to track where raw materials like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite used in the battery originate from. It also highlights the CO2 footprint of the full battery pack and other relevant information, offering transparency about how the automaker sources raw battery material in a responsible way.

Summing up

The Volvo ES90 will definitely be one of the most exciting launches of 2026 as it aims to set new benchmarks in performance, technology, and innovation within the EV segment. All eyes are on this highly awaited debut.

Also read: Volvo doubles down on safety with new adaptive seatbelt tech; EX60 to get it first