Volvo unveils plans for the release of its electric mid-size SUV model, the EX60, set for next year, 2026.
In the heart of the automotive industry, Swedish automaker Volvo is gearing up for the release of its highly anticipated electric mid-size SUV, the EX60. Scheduled to hit the markets in the second half of 2026, the EX60 is poised to challenge the likes of Tesla Model Y, next-gen Mercedes EQC, Audi Q4 e-tron, BMW iX3, and Lexus RZ.
The EX60 marks a significant milestone in Volvo's electrification journey, being the first vehicle to utilise the advanced, scalable SPA3 platform. This platform, a cornerstone of Volvo's future electric lineup, is a successor to the platform used by the EX90 and the new large electric sedan ES90.
Manufacturing innovations are at the forefront of the EX60's development. Volvo's Gothenburg factory will produce the EX60 using mega casting technology, a method that employs large aluminum cast parts, replacing over 100 smaller parts. This approach reduces weight by up to 15-20% compared to traditional stamped parts, while maintaining or improving safety and durability. The method also contributes to improved aerodynamics, potentially lowering seating height by up to 15 mm, enhancing range and efficiency.
Design-wise, the EX60 closely resembles the current XC60. It incorporates Volvo's new EV design cues, such as eight-bit Thor’s hammer LED headlights, flush door handles, a blanked-off grille, aerodynamic wheels, and Volvo’s new rear light signature. The 'Volvo' script will sit prominently on the bootlid.
As for the powertrain, specific details are yet to be confirmed. However, it's anticipated that the EX60 will share powertrain options similar to the upcoming ES90, including a single motor with 329 hp and a dual-motor variant up to 670 hp.
Safety is a top priority for the EX60, with expectations that it will include the latest Volvo safety equipment. Standard features may encompass forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking (front and rear), parking sensors, surround-view cameras, blind spot monitoring, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, intersection assist, automatic high beams, and traffic sign recognition. It remains unconfirmed whether advanced LiDAR-based driver assistance from the EX90 will be available on the EX60.
Pricing information for the EX60 has not been announced, but it is expected to be significantly more expensive than the gas-powered XC60, which starts at around $47,345.
In summary, the Volvo EX60, launching in 2026, represents a pivotal EV for Volvo, with state-of-the-art manufacturing, safety, and design innovations centred on the SPA3 platform. This vehicle is set to redefine luxury electric SUVs in the market.
The SPA3 platform, key to Volvo's future electric lineup, will underpin the EX60, making it the first vehicle to utilize this advanced, scalable design. In terms of financing, the EX60 is anticipated to be significantly more expensive than its gas-powered counterpart, the XC60. As for the automotive industry, the EX60 will go head-to-head with other electric mid-size SUVs, such as the Tesla Model Y and the next-gen Mercedes EQC upon its release in the second half of 2026. The EX60's technology advancements also extend to manufacturing, with mega casting technology being employed for lighter, safer, and more aerodynamic components.
