Starting with all 2023 models, Volvo will only sell electrified models in the USA as a part of its plan to offer an electric-only lineup by 2030.
For now, internal combustion engines still have a role to play for the brand though. Customers will have the opportunity to choose from all-electric, mild hybrid engines, or plug-in hybrid powertrains, but gasoline-only is off the menu. Every Volvo that’s not all-electric already, including the XC90, the XC40, and the V60, now has a mild hybrid as its standard powertrain.
Across the lineup, Volvo is updating styling and adding features as well. New colors, new wheels, and new interior options like leather-free upholstery are available. The S60, V60, and V60 Cross Country each get new exterior styling that sees changes to both the front grille and the rear bumper.
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In addition, Volvo has announced that all 2023 models will ship with Google built-in. Similar to Android Auto, the new infotainment user interface will allow owners to integrate their personal devices with the vehicle more seamlessly. In addition, it will offer the same navigation and voice command functionality found on the latest Android devices, while future over-the-air updates promise additional features over time.
Volvo reported that some 38 percent of sales in April were of electrified vehicles, an increase of 18.7 percent. At the same time, overall sales numbers are on the downturn. From January to April, the brand posted a global decrease in total sales of 21.3 percent. In fact, April punctuated that rough start with a drop of 24.8 percent when compared to the same month in 2021. Now we’ll have to wait to see how the brand manages the remaining months of the year as they transition to the 2023 model year. The batch of electrified vehicles is already in production and Volvo says that they will begin arriving at dealers sometime this summer.
