The IT Nerd

Volvo Cars today launches its first ever long-range plug-in hybrids for the European and American markets, introducing new variants of the best-selling XC60 and XC90 SUVs. The new XC60, which also has a comprehensive design update, delivers class-leading electric range of up to 126 kilometres on a single charge, with the XC90 providing up to 117 km.

These long-range hybrids are a key part of Volvo Cars’ bridge to a fully electric future. They offer drivers paradigm-shifting electric range that makes school runs, daily commutes and weekend trips effortless and free of tailpipe emissions, with the quiet refinement of electric driving.

The electric range of the mid-size XC60 and large XC90 is now more than two and a half times as high as on the existing plug-in hybrid variants. This is thanks to a new, larger-capacity, floor-integrated battery and a more powerful electric motor, while the petrol engine can take over when needed. Both cars also remain available as mild hybrids.

Significant design and safety upgrades for new XC60

A new front and rear exterior design give the new XC60 a more contemporary and dynamic look. An upgraded grille and redesigned front bumper, hood, front wings and new wheels provide a new elegant interpretation of Volvo Cars’ Scandinavian design language.

The new design of the Thor’s Hammer Matrix LED headlights is one of the most eye-catching updates, with the iconic light signature refined to its purest expression, emphasising its technical sophistication. The design of the tailgate, rear LED lamps and rear bumper have been updated with a stronger emphasis on the horizontal lines to give the car a more powerful, confident stance.  

Inside, a new dashboard and door panel design, wood decor and Cardamom ventilated Nappa leather create a calm, Scandinavian-inspired cabin, with top-of-the-line interior illumination adding a sophisticated ambience.

The XC60 now includes the company’s latest active safety technology. If a potential collision is detected, the car can respond in real time – warning the driver or stepping in to help avoid or reduce the impact. From steering around danger with automatic emergency steering, braking instantly with automatic emergency braking, to alerting occupants of an approaching cyclist before a door is opened, it is designed to help choose the safest possible action in the moment.

To help make driving easier, the XC60 also comes with a wide range of advanced driver support features that work quietly in the background, enabled by an upgraded sensing set including radars, cameras and other sensors. Features such as lane change assist and a 360 camera with 3D view help drivers feel more aware behind the wheel.

The new XC60 also puts key information and controls within easy reach, providing easy access to key information and helping drivers to stay focused on the road. An 11.2-inch screen gives access to Volvo Car UX, the company’s latest infotainment system.

With Google Gemini, the next-generation AI assistant from Google, drivers can interact with the car naturally. From planning journeys and finding great stops to managing messages on the move, Gemini understands everyday language.  

The XC90, now even better than before

The Volvo XC90 has earned a reputation as one of the most acclaimed premium family SUVs, setting a benchmark for safety, comfort and Scandinavian design. Building on recent technology and design updates, this seven-seater continues to be one of the safest cars on the road.

The XC90 is designed to be a space where every journey feels more relaxing, restorative and comfortable. It embraces Scandinavian luxury, blending premium materials, natural light and a smooth wood decor that draws nature closer.

The optional Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system transforms the cabin into a space for immersive listening and unparalleled sound. Like the XC60, the XC90 also now features Google Gemini.

Securing continued popularity

These long-range plug-in hybrids underpin Volvo Cars’ sales and profitability ambitions. They represent efficient investments in the company’s existing line-up, securing continued popularity for the coming years and extending the important bridge towards full electrification.

Like all new Volvo cars, the new XC60 and XC90 will benefit from regular over-the-air updates, meaning a car that is great from day one gets better as time goes on. Order books for the new XC60 and XC90, including the Black Edition, are open from today in selected markets, with production starting later this autumn.

The small print

• Range figures are preliminary and based on EPA testing standards obtained under specific testing conditions. Actual range can vary depending on charge level, car specification, outdoor temperature, battery temperature, weather, topography, driving style and car speed.
• Availability of the features and services mentioned above may vary by market. Features may differ depending on subscription, and results may vary. Some features and services mentioned are optional and require customer opt-in.
• Google and Gemini are trademarks of Google LLC. Some connected apps require setup. Compatibility and availability vary. 18+

The highly popular Volvo XC40 is getting significant updates to make everyday life on the road easier and more enjoyable, ranging from updates to exterior and interior design to infotainment, advanced driver assistance and active safety.

A refreshed exterior design gives the XC40 a more confident and contemporary presence. The new design of the Thor’s Hammer Matrix LED headlights is one of the most eye-catching updates, with a refined take on the iconic light signature. An upgraded grille and redesigned front bumper, hood and front wings provide a new elegant interpretation of Volvo Cars’ Scandinavian design language.

At the rear, the XC40 features new LED rear lights, an upgraded tailgate, and a redesigned rear bumper. The XC40 also comes with new 18-inch, 19-inch and 20-inch diamond cut wheels.

Intuitive and versatile on the inside
The interior is upgraded with a new, larger and crisper 11.2-inch screen, bringing Volvo Cars’ latest user experience. The updated screen makes interacting with the car faster and easier, with fewer taps needed to access key functions, creating a seamlessly connected and intuitive experience for everyday driving.

Featuring Google Gemini, the next-generation AI assistant from Google, the XC40 is a car you can have a natural conversation with. From planning journeys and finding great stops to managing messages on the move, Gemini understands everyday language effortlessly.

Designed with everyday usability in mind, the interior combines smart storage space and thoughtfully integrated features, such as the updated wireless phone charger, to make life on the road more convenient. From busy weekday schedules to spontaneous weekend getaways, the versatile cabin adapts effortlessly to the changing needs of drivers and their families.

The cabin updates also include new premium upholstery and decor options to enhance comfort and design. For the first time, XC40 customers can opt for Arianne Cardamom leather upholstery paired with Brown Ash wood decor elements across the interior. The car also features refined cabin illumination plus the option of Black Ash or aluminium decor, bringing a modern expression to the interior.

Protecting what matters most
Built on Volvo Cars’ pioneering safety knowledge from real-world research, the XC40 combines advanced safety technologies to help prevent collisions and protect people. If a potential collision is detected, the cars can respond in real time, warning the driver or stepping in to help avoid or reduce the impact. Whether steering around danger with automatic emergency steering or braking instantly with automatic emergency braking, it’s designed to help choose the safest action in the moment.

These enhanced safety capabilities are made possible by a new advanced software and sensor platform. With new front and corner radars, a new front camera, new rear corner radars, 12 new ultrasonic sensors and new parking cameras, the car gains a more comprehensive view of its surroundings, helping drivers feel more confident behind the wheel.

The upgraded platform also enables several new and upgraded safety and driver support functions:

• Door Opening Alert helps protect cyclists and other road users by warning occupants before opening the door into passing traffic.
• The optional Pilot Assist is expanded with lane change assist and refined to follow the road more smoothly, providing added support and comfort on longer journeys.
• The optional 360 camera is upgraded to a 3D view that makes parking and low‑speed manoeuvres easier.

The small print

• Availability of the features and services mentioned above may vary by market. Some features and services mentioned are optional and require customer opt-in.
• Google and Gemini are trademarks of Google LLC. Some connected apps require setup. Compatibility and availability vary. 18+

Volvo Car Canada Ltd. is pleased to announce the appointment of Narcis Tajvidi as Director, Digital.

Currently serving as Online Business Lead, Narcis has played a pivotal role in advancing Volvo Car Canada’s digital business and customer experience strategy since joining the company in 2021, helping drive improvements across e-commerce, digital performance, retailer engagement, and omnichannel customer journeys.

With more than 15 years of leadership experience in the automotive industry, Narcis brings a strong combination of commercial, digital, and transformation expertise gained through progressive roles at both Volvo Car Canada and BMW Group Canada.

In her new role, she will lead the Digital, Data, and Technology portfolio for the market in Canada, with a focus on accelerating growth, strengthening customer and retailer experiences, advancing AI and data capabilities, and ensuring technology investments deliver meaningful business value.

Recognized for her collaborative leadership, Narcis is committed to building strong partnerships across retailers, colleagues, and global teams as the company continues its digital transformation journey.

Volvo Cars is introducing new Connected Safety features to alert drivers of hazards ahead, so they have more time to adapt and drive more safely. As part of the same software update, Volvo EX90 drivers will be able to enjoy Spatial Audio support in Apple CarPlay*, taking music and audio to the next level.

Pioneering safety features
First launched in 2016, Volvo Cars’ connected safety technology enables real-time hazard alerts based on data shared from other cars. The latest software update introduces four new alerts:

• The Large Animal Alert can warn other drivers if a large animal is detected on or near the road ahead.
• The Vulnerable Road User Alert can warn other drivers if pedestrians and cyclists are detected ahead on or near highways.
• The Roadwork Alert can warn other drivers when roadwork is detected ahead.
• The Accident Ahead Alert can warn other drivers of accidents further ahead, using real-time data from connected Volvo cars or traffic management centres.

Available in the Volvo EX90 and EX60, these features expand the system’s ability to provide clear, early warnings – especially in low-visibility conditions such as winding roads or poor weather. These complement existing features like the Slippery Road Alert and Hazard Light Alert.

Today, more than 1 million Volvo cars have activated connected safety tech, turning everyday journeys into a collective safety effort. Through the European Data for Road Safety ecosystem, the alert data can also be shared with cars from other brands and national traffic management centres, contributing to safer roads for everyone.

Enhanced audio experience
The latest software update also brings Spatial Audio support in CarPlay* to the Volvo EX90 with Dolby Atmos technology. Enabled by the Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system including 25 high-performance speakers, Volvo drivers can enjoy a multi-dimensional and immersive sound experience that places music and vocals around the cabin.

From a favourite track to a live performance or a podcast, Spatial Audio powered by Dolby Atmos adds depth and detail to everything you listen to – making every drive feel richer, more engaging and more enjoyable.

Volvo Cars was recently recognised by S&P Global Mobility as the only legacy carmaker to reach Level 5 capability in software-defined cars. The latest software update exemplifies how these vehicles continue to add safety features and become better over time.

The small print

• The new connected safety features mentioned above will be available in Volvo EX60, EX90 and ES90 in Europe, US and Canada. Timing of availability may vary depending on car model.
• Spatial Audio in CarPlay requires a Bowers & Wilkins sound system to deliver a fully immersive experience, which is available to choose when ordering the Volvo EX60, EX90 and ES90.

Volvo Car Canada Ltd. has received Environmental Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) certification for the all-new 2027 Volvo EX60 P10 AWD with an estimated driving range of up to 531 kilometres on a single charge*, exceeding earlier estimates by the company. This marks a significant milestone as the company prepares for customer deliveries.

After its debut earlier this year and the opening of Canadian order books this spring, the EX60 positions Volvo Cars in the mid-size electric SUV segment, the largest and fastest-growing category in the electric vehicle market. The game-changing SUV offers impressive range, fast charging, and exceptional performance – all at a competitive price.

• The EX60 P10 AWD delivers the longest electric driving range of any Volvo car sold in the Canadian market to date, transforming range anxiety into a sense of freedom.
• The EX60 is the first vehicle built on Volvo Cars’ new SPA3 architecture, which features an 800-volt electrical system that enables the EX60 to charge quickly. For the P10 AWD variant, drivers can add up to 265 kilometres** of range in just 10 minutes, about the amount of time it takes to grab a coffee.
• As the first Volvo car equipped with a native North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, the EX60 provides customers with seamless, adapter-free access to more than 29,000 Tesla Supercharger stations across the United States and Canada.

This NRCan certification provides customers with independently verified range performance and underscores the company’s commitment to delivering practical, long-range electric mobility without compromising safety, comfort, or Scandinavian design. 

Customers interested in the Volvo EX60 are encouraged to contact their local retailer or visit volvocars.com/en-ca/cars/ex60-electric/.

The small print

* MY27 EX60 P10 AWD has an estimated range of up to 531 kilometres with 20″ or 21″ all-season tires and up to 502 kilometres with 22″ all-season tires. The figures are based on Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) approved test cycles. Actual range, energy consumption, and charging times will vary depending on factors such as ambient temperature, battery temperature, charging equipment, driving conditions, vehicle configuration, and battery condition. See https://fcr-ccc.nrcan-rncan.gc.ca/en for more information.

** The figures are based on Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) approved test cycles. Actual range, energy consumption, and charging times will vary depending on factors such as ambient temperature, battery temperature, charging equipment, driving conditions, vehicle configuration, and battery condition. See https://fcr-ccc.nrcan-rncan.gc.ca/en for more information. Peak charging estimates are based on the use of a DC fast charger capable of delivering up to 400 kW.

Volvo Cars is now starting to integrate Apple Music into more than two million Volvo cars via an over-the-air software update. The newly launched Volvo EX60 will also come with Apple Music natively integrated when the first customers receive their cars this summer.

o help new listeners get started, Volvo Cars is offering eligible customers up to three months of Apple Music for free, giving Volvo drivers plenty of time to discover new artists and find the soundtrack to their next journey​.

Drivers of the Volvo EX60, EX90 and ES90 can also enjoy Apple Music Spatial Audio, powered by Dolby Atmos technology and brought to life by the optional Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system, delivering an immersive experience that places the listeners at the centre of the sound, with music and vocals all around the cabin.

As one of the world’s largest music streaming services, Apple Music provides instant access to more than 100 million songs, ad-free. Whether it’s an energizing playlist for the morning commute or something more relaxed for a late-night drive, the music people love is there.

Customers can simply sign in with their Apple account and enjoy songs, playlists and live radio, all easily controlled by voice or touchscreen. New subscribers can quickly sign up and bring all their playlists and full library of music with them from other services. (Learn more about transferring your library here)

High-fidelity sound, perfected in EX60, EX90 and ES90
The Volvo EX60, EX90 and ES90 are quieter than any Volvo cars before them, thanks to state‑of‑the‑art soundproofing. Building on Volvo Cars’ heritage of premium in‑car audio experiences, these cars take sound quality to new heights. They are available with one of the most advanced in‑car audio systems ever developed, carefully calibrated to the car’s interior acoustics.

The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system in the EX60, EX90 and ES90 delivers an exceptional music experience, with True Sound powered by high-performance speakers integrated throughout the cabin.

With Apple Music Spatial Audio powered by Dolby Atmos technology, Volvo drivers can experience music in immersive audio, transforming the car into a premium listening environment. Dolby Atmos brings a more natural, multi-dimensional sound experience that surrounds listeners with music and vocals in greater clarity and depth.

The small print

• The software update is coming to the Volvo EX90, ES90, XC90, S90, V90, XC60, S60, V60, XC40, EX40 and EC40, from model year 2020 and onwards. Timing of availability may vary depending on car model.
• Volvo customers of the above-mentioned car models who are new to Apple Music or are returning users, can enjoy up to three months of free Apple Music, valid until July 6, 2027. Eligible customers can redeem this offer in the Volvo Cars app. For further details, please refer to the customer support hub on Volvocars.com.
• The Bowers & Wilkins sound system is available to choose when ordering selected Volvo car models.

I was having a conversation with Volvo Cars Canada about using advanced sensors and vehicle data in terms of identifying near miss accidents. The key is that there are near miss accidents. As in there are not accidents. This helps Volvo kicks things up a notch as they are increasing their safety status beyond what’s available with other cards.

Here’s the Q & A from Volvo Cars Canada:

Q. Talk to me about the use of advanced sensors and vehicle data in terms of identifying near miss accidents. 

A. At Volvo, we believe preventing accidents starts long before a collision occurs. Near-miss data is critical because it lets us identify risk before a crash happens. Using advanced sensors like cameras, radars and sensors, vehicles can detect dangerous situations in real time, often stepping in with warnings or interventions to help avoid a collision.

By learning from these moments of real-world driving situations, we can continuously improve our safety systems. Ultimately, it shifts safety from reactive to preventative, helping us move closer to our ambition of zero collisions.

Q. How does identifying near miss accidents help with elimination of collisions?

A. To prevent collisions, you first need to understand how and why they happen. Near-miss events provide valuable insights into situations where a collision was narrowly avoided, helping Volvo identify risks before they lead to real-world accidents.

These learnings are incorporated into the Volvo Safety Standard, Volvo’s internal safety benchmark that goes beyond regulatory requirements and traditional crash testing. By studying real-world driving scenarios and using that data to inform both physical and virtual crash testing, Volvo develops preventative safety systems that better address the complexities of everyday driving.

This continuous feedback loop helps Volvo identify risks earlier, improve collision avoidance technologies, and move closer to its long-term ambition of eliminating serious injuries and fatalities in new Volvo vehicles.

Q. How does this help make Volvo cars safer? 

A. Real-world data enables Volvo to continuously improve both active and passive safety systems based on how people actually drive, rather than solely relying on standardized testing scenarios.

Insights gathered from crash investigations, near-miss events, connected vehicle data, onboard sensors, and driver behaviour help Volvo refine technologies such as automatic emergency braking, collision avoidance systems, driver assistance features, occupant protection, and driver monitoring.

This data-driven development process allows Volvo engineers to validate safety innovations against real-world conditions and continuously improve vehicle safety performance over time.

What makes this even more powerful is how we process and learn from the data. With Volvo Cars’ next generation core compute and centralized systems like HuginCore we can analyze these signals at scale and continuously improve how the vehicle understands risk. Combined with over-the-air updates, we’re able to refine and enhance our safety systems based on these real-world learnings, without customers needing to visit a retailer.

Q. Are there other advancements that help make Volvo cars safer? 

A. Safety innovation remains at the core of Volvo Cars. One of our latest advancements is the new multi-adaptive safety belt, an award-winning, world-first technology designed to further enhance occupant protection in real-world traffic situations.

Using real-time data from interior and exterior sensors, the system can adapt protection based on factors such as a person’s size, body shape, seating position, and crash severity. By significantly expanding the range of load-limiting settings that control how force is applied during a collision, the belt can provide more personalized protection for different occupants. It’s an example of how Volvo continues to use technology and data to make safety systems more intelligent, responsive, and effective.

Moving beyond fixed voice commands, Gemini introduces an intuitive, intent-based experience where the car can understand natural conversation, context and the driver’s needs. This makes life on the road easier and more enjoyable.

The rollout begins with a first wave of customers in the United States, before scaling across the country and into additional markets in the weeks ahead and Canada later this year Drivers of Volvo cars dating back to 2020 will be among the first to experience Google’s next-generation AI assistant.

A more natural way to interact

But what does this look like in the real world?  

• Plan a trip and learn about your destination: Gemini helps you make the most of every journey. You can say, “Hey Google, can you help us brainstorm a warm, adventurous family holiday without a long flight?” If a suggestion sparks your interest, you can dive deeper with follow‑up questions to find family‑friendly activities near your destination.

• Find the ultimate pit stop: Whether you’re craving a specific snack or a highly rated meal, Gemini uses Google Maps to find exactly what you need. Ask, “Hey Google, find a place on my route that sells croissants,” and follow up with questions like, “What are the reviews like?” or “Is there easy parking?” – so you can choose your stop with confidence.”

• Stay on top of your messages: You can ask Gemini to summarize incoming texts or send a complex message like: “Hey Google, message Sophie that I’ll be 10 minutes late, and please send it in French since she’s learning.” If your plans change, simply tell Gemini to update the message with your new ETA without starting over.

• Create the perfect vibe: Enjoy a more natural way to control your media. You can get specific with your favourite streaming apps by saying, “Hey Google, play something calming.” Gemini curates the experience to match your exact mood.

Collaborating to push boundaries
In 2025, Google selected Volvo Cars as a lead development partner for new in-car features and updates, giving Volvo Cars a direct role in shaping how new technologies, like Google Gemini, are developed for real-world driving and the Volvo experience.

Through over-the-air updates, Volvo Cars is bringing new software experiences to cars already on the road. In March 2026, Volvo Cars launched one of the most comprehensive infotainment updates by any car maker to date, beginning the rollout of Volvo Car UX – a more intuitive user experience – to millions of customers worldwide.

(add something around Canada market timing planned for later this year)

The small print

• Google Gemini will initially be available to eligible Volvo Cars customers in the United States who have an active internet connection in their car and a US English Google Account.
• Google Gemini will be introduced to the following models with Google built in, dating back to 2020: C40, EC40, EX40, XC40, S60, V60, V60CC, XC60, V90, V90CC, S90, XC90, EX90, ES90, EX30, EX60.

• Availability of the features and services mentioned above may vary by market. Features may differ depending on subscription, and results may vary. Some connected apps require setup. Compatibility and availability vary. 18+.
• Google and Gemini are trademarks of Google LLC.

Volvo Cars is launching its largest over-the-air software update ever, as it rolls out a new, more intuitive user experience to millions of customers starting this week.

Around 2.5 million Volvo cars across 85 countries around the globe will receive the new user experience, called Volvo Car UX. A more user-friendly new layout for the car’s central display screen allows drivers to enjoy a faster, easier and more intuitive way to interact with their cars while reducing the number of taps to get to different functions.

Customers who drive a Volvo car with Google built-in will receive the upgrade on their Volvo cars built as early as 2020 free of charge, an initiative in line with Volvo Cars’ strategy to make its cars better over time with regular software updates.

Based on the Android Automotive operating system and with several Google services as standard, the new user experience aims to make customers’ lives easier behind the wheel. It now takes fewer taps or clicks for customers to reach the most-used features, getting them where they want to be more quickly.

The new layout also includes easier, more prominent navigation and a refreshed, more modern look, with many upgrades grounded in real-world research and feedback from customers. In other words, it’s simply better.

As one of the most comprehensive infotainment updates by any car maker to date, the new user experience creates a contemporary and consistent design philosophy across all Volvo car models. This means a customer with a three-year-old XC40 benefits from the same approach as an EX90 owner, for example.

The content on the screen represents the biggest change, with the most common apps and controls, such as maps, media and phone, presented on the home screen. This means for example that customers who are following navigation directions and want to change the music, no longer have to leave Google Maps to access the media feature.

Then there is the contextual bar, which changes what drivers see according to the situation and displays the most recently used apps. When driving at low speeds, the icon for outside cameras appears so drivers can get help manoeuvring in tight spaces.

For plug-in hybrid drivers, the new user experience makes it easier for drivers to get the most out of their electric powertrain. Via ‘Drive Modes’ on the home screen, drivers can easily access ‘Pure’ mode alongside other options. That means switching from hybrid to electric-only power is now only one tap away, giving drivers more control.

At the same time as the updates above, Volvo Cars will also start to roll out the opportunity for all customers with Google built-in, but without its Pilot Assist driver assistance feature, to purchase and download the feature to their car.

The update also prepares cars for an optimal conversational AI experience with Google Gemini, which is set to come to the same eligible cars later this spring.