New Affordable Long-Range Volvo EV Set to Shake up the Segment

This new model will offer attractive alternative to Chevy Bolt and new Tesla Model 3

Expanding the mileage range while staying affordable is one of the big challenges facing electric vehicles in the U.S. today. Volvo is planning to meet the challenge head on with its first-ever EV coming in 2019. It’s likely to have a range of about 250 miles and a price between $35,000 and $40,000 according to an Automotive News interview with Lex Kerssemakers, CEO of Volvo Car USA.

A growing segment

While the Chevy Bolt is currently the only EV in that price range with over a 200-mile range, the competition is about to get stiffer. Tesla is working on its entry-level Model 3. Nissan has a new LEAF in the works. And Jaguar is working on its I-PACE production car. However, the Jaguar is expected to be priced over $60,000. BMW’s i3 is priced in the low $40,000s, but can’t match the mileage range of the upcoming Volvo.

Based on the S40 Sedan

The new Volvo EV is expected to follow the 40.2 concept introduced last year. That is, it will be a derivative of the next-generation Volvo S40 sedan. Don’t be surprised to see a crossover version, as well, based on the next-generation Volvo XC40. 

"Why are people reluctant to buy a full electric car?" said Kerssemakers. "It's between the ears. It's that they believe there's not sufficient range." The new Volvo will tackle these concerns head-on and offer a compelling new option for drivers who want both efficiency and peace of mind behind the wheel.

Look for this new Volvo EV at Volvo Cars Silver Spring sometime in 2019. In the meantime, we’ll keep you informed about Volvo’s ongoing development of hybrid electric and EV technology as the automaker continues to innovate in this popular segment.

Image Credit: Volvo