Summary
- Volvo will upgrade the EX90’s battery pack to 800V
- The upgrade is expected to reduce charging stops at DC fast chargers
- The change is part of a model refresh coming in the next three to four years
- Switching to 800V could reduce charging time by up to ten minutes
- It is uncertain if the ES90’s 106-kilowatt-hour battery pack will be used in the EX90 to maintain driving experience.
Article
Volvo’s Upcoming Battery Upgrade for the EX90 SUV
Volvo has announced plans to upgrade the battery pack in its flagship electric model, the EX90 SUV. The current 400V battery will be replaced with an 800V pack in an upcoming model refresh. This upgrade is aimed at reducing charging times at DC fast chargers, making it more convenient for drivers to top up their EVs on the go.
The Need for an 800V System
Despite its status as a flagship model in Volvo’s electric lineup, the EX90’s 400V battery pack falls short compared to its competitors. Rival models such as the Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 9, and Lucid Gravity all use 800V or higher battery packs. The main advantage of an 800V system is faster charging speeds, as the higher voltage and amperage result in a higher kilowatt input, allowing for quicker recharging times.
Volvo’s Strategy for Battery Upgrades
Volvo’s CEO, Jim Rowan, has confirmed the company’s plans to transition to 800V battery packs across its electric vehicle lineup. The upcoming ES90 electric sedan, based on the same SPA2 architecture as the EX90, will also feature an 800V battery pack. The transition to 800V will standardize the platform and improve range and charging speeds for Volvo’s electric vehicles.
Timeline for Battery Upgrade
While the EX90 has just arrived in dealerships worldwide, the battery upgrade to an 800V system is expected to occur during a mid-cycle refresh in the next three to four years. Currently, the 400V EX90 can charge at up to 250 kW from a DC fast charger, leading to a 10-80% top-up in as little as 30 minutes. Switching to an 800V system could potentially reduce charging times by up to ten minutes on a 350 kW fast charger.
Potential Impact on Performance
It remains unclear if Volvo will use the ES90’s 106-kilowatt-hour battery pack in the EX90 during the upgrade. The current EX90 has a 111 kWh pack, but utilizing the smaller pack from the sedan may result in a slight reduction in range. However, the faster charging times with the 800V system should offset any decrease in range, ensuring a seamless driving experience for EX90 owners.
Conclusion
The upcoming battery upgrade for the Volvo EX90 SUV marks a significant step towards improving charging speeds and efficiency for electric vehicles. By transitioning to an 800V system, Volvo aims to stay competitive in the EV market and provide a seamless charging experience for its customers. With the promise of shorter charging stops and increased range, the future looks bright for Volvo’s electric lineup.
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