Much has been made about a push toward electric vehicles, and while Volvo currently offers two EV models with a third soon to come, there are also mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid models in the current Volvo lineup that can help give you more efficiency without changing the way you drive and fuel your vehicle. But what are the differences between mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems, and which new Volvo model will work for you? Beach Volvo is here to break it down so you can make the right choice.
Mild Hybrid vs Plug-in Hybrid
A mild-hybrid system is one that you’ll barely notice, putting a 48-volt electric motor on the output shaft of your transmission, this system provides added acceleration assistance and low-speed cruising automatically when the situation calls for it. It improves city fuel economy by adding electric power when your gasoline engine is at its least efficient.
Plug-in hybrid is much more involved, giving you the ability to drive on electric power alone, or improve performance by using the systems together. For Volvo, that means a total of 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque combined, or an EV range of up to 49 miles before you need the gasoline engine.
Which Volvo Models Are Electrified?
Every new Volvo model offers mild-hybrid technology with both the B5 and B6 engine options. If it’s Volvo plug-in hybrid models you’re after, those models include:
- Volvo S60
- Volvo S90
- Volvo V90 Cross Country
- Volvo XC60
- Volvo XC90
With the B5 mild-hybrid you get 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque from a 2.0-liter turbo, while the B6 is a turbo and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder developing 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.
Visit Our Dealership Today!
Test drive new Volvo mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid models at our Volvo dealership near Conway and Pawley’s Island, SC today!