Volvo ES90: A New Electric Contender with a Unique Silhouette
Volvo is venturing into new territory with the ES90, an all-electric vehicle that defies easy categorization. This intriguing model artfully combines attributes of a saloon, an SUV, and a hatchback, resulting in a distinctive design that aims to set it apart from the competition.
Unconventional Design
While the ES90’s name pays homage to the classic S90, the new electric model abandons the traditional saloon format. Instead, it presents a slightly elevated hatchback with a coupe-like sloping roofline, reminiscent of the Ford Capri in its silhouette. This design choice reflects Volvo’s dedication to a design philosophy they call “machined from solid”, creating the impression that the car is sculpted from a single piece of metal.
The front of the ES90 features headlights similar to those on the EX90 SUV, but avoids the fake grilles seen on the BMW i5. Moreover, the roof houses a crucial LiDar sensor, used for advanced driver assistance systems. While Volvo could have hidden this sensor within the grille or lower bumper, Jeremy Offer, Volvo’s head of design, stated that would have compromised on safety.
The side profile is particularly striking. It possesses the sleekness expected of a saloon, while the raised stance offers a fresh perspective. Offer further explained that the elevated driving position is partly dictated by the electric components under the floor, which necessitated this adjustment. This has enabled Volvo to create something unprecedented in the market.
Moving to the rear, the ES90 incorporates C-shaped LED taillights, similar to those found on the smaller EX30. Like the EX30, additional LED strips extend up the rear window, a feature not commonly seen on saloons.
Interior and Technology
Stepping inside, the ES90’s interior presents a significant departure from that of the EX90. The cabin design, with its minimalist approach, creates a feeling of being enveloped by the car. A sizable 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen dominates the dashboard, controlling nearly all functions with minimal physical buttons.
Volvo offers a choice of light and dark colour themes. High-quality, eco-friendly materials adorn the interior. For instance, some fabrics are composed of recycled plastic bottles.
Performance and Range
The ES90 presents buyers with three motor and battery configurations. The base model features a rear-wheel-drive setup and a 92kWh battery. The dual-motor versions are equipped with a 106kWh battery.
The standard Twin Motor configuration provides the longest travel range, reaching up to 435 miles on a single charge. This surpasses the BMW i5 by 60 miles and even edges out the Mercedes EQE.
The Twin Motor Performance variant offers a robust 680hp, significantly exceeding the standard Twin Motor by 230hp. It accelerates from 0 to 60mph in a swift 4.0 seconds—only 0.2 seconds slower than the quickest BMW i5. Interestingly, this version also offers the same impressive 435-mile range.
The entry-level Single Motor model delivers 333hp to the rear wheels and, thanks to the slightly smaller battery, offers 404 miles of range. This range is still more than what the base Polestar 4 provides.
Availability and Pricing
The Volvo ES90 is slated to be available for order beginning in March. However, consumers in the UK should anticipate the first deliveries in early 2026. The Plus model starts at £69,950, which includes a premium Bose sound system, four-zone climate control, and a 360-degree camera. The Ultra trim, costing over £10,000 more, features a more advanced stereo, a full-length panoramic sunroof, and active air suspension. The Twin Motor powertrains are exclusive to the Ultra trim.
