Features
16 mai 18

New S60 is first Volvo to ditch diesel

The Swedish carmaker takes the next step in its comprehensive electrification strategy. Today, it announced that the new S60, which will be built in South Carolina, USA, will not be offered with diesel engines. Other new Volvo models will follow the S60's example.

“Our future is electric and we will no longer develop a new generation of diesel engines,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Cars. “We will phase out cars with only an internal combustion engine, with petrol hybrid versions as a transitional option as we move towards full electrification. The new S60 represents the next step in that commitment.”

That should not affect its success in the Americas, APAC or the Middle East, but European long-distance drivers might regret this drastic decision. They can still opt for the V60 D3 or D4, or the diesel-powered S90, Volvo will surely reply.

Three degrees of electrification - in theory

The new S60 will initially be available with a range of four-cylinder petrol engines as well as with two petrol plug-in hybrid versions - the T6 and T8 Twin Engine we already know from the new V60. Mild hybrid versions (48V) will follow next year, the press release reads.

Nothing was mentioned about Volvo’s plans with regard to the medium form of electrification – hybrid powertrains (HEVs) with a high-voltage battery that cannot be charged externally, like Toyota’s and Lexus’ Hybrid Synergy Drive. Still, as 48-volt hybrids can only lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 5 to 10 percent, and the Twin Engine variants are reserved for those who have a fairly big budget, the HEV models might be the most viable alternative for long-distance drivers.

Picture copyright: Volvo, 2018

 

Authored by: Dieter Quartier