Category: Midsize

Oct 18

Volvo Debuts Its First-Ever Minivan, the All-Electric EM90

Volvo’s Strategic Expansion into Minivans

In a surprising turn of events, Volvo is set to launch its inaugural minivan, the EM90, in 2024, marking its first foray into this vehicle category. The move, initially unexpected, aligns with Volvo’s strategy under the ownership of China’s Geely, which aims to leverage economies of scale across its various automotive brands. The EM90 is essentially a rebadged version of Zeekr’s recently introduced minivan, the 009, another Geely subsidiary, showcasing a shared platform that enhances both brands’ offerings in the electric vehicle market.

Design and Features of the Volvo EM90

Dubbed a “Scandinavian living room on the move,” the Volvo EM90 is impressively sized, mirroring the dimensions of luxury on wheels with its vast interior space optimized for comfort and style. It measures over 205 inches in length and features a sleek design with a drag coefficient of just 0.27, making it aerodynamically efficient despite its substantial size. Inside, the layout offers various configurations, including a luxurious 2+2+2 setup, providing ample room and a premium feel that distances it from traditional minivan designs.

Performance and Market Integration

The EM90 differentiates itself from its Zeekr counterpart with unique styling cues and a Volvo-branded aesthetic, including a distinctive fascia and minimal exterior tweaks like added chrome trim. It boasts a robust 268 horsepower from a single rear-mounted motor, with an optional dual-motor setup that skyrockets its output to 536 horsepower, allowing it to achieve 0 to 62 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Additionally, it features a cutting-edge battery system from CATL, offering up to 511 miles of range on a single charge, addressing any concerns about electric vehicle range limitations effectively.

Volvo’s Market Strategy and Future Outlook

The production of the EM90, set to commence in China post-New Year, represents a significant step in Volvo’s electric vehicle strategy, potentially setting a new standard for luxury electric minivans. While initial releases are slated for the Chinese market, the global potential for such a vehicle is substantial, given the growing demand for versatile, high-performance electric vehicles. Volvo’s cautious approach to confirming markets outside of China, including the U.S., suggests a strategic wait-and-see approach to gauge initial reception and adapt its strategy accordingly. This move could redefine consumer expectations for what a minivan can offer, merging traditional family vehicle utility with the performance and luxury of modern EVs.

Aug 19

2023 Toyota Highlander vs. Ford Explorer: Which SUV is More Cost-Effective in the Long Run?

Choosing between the 2023 Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer involves more than just evaluating their features—it’s also about understanding the long-term financial implications. This comparison delves into how these two SUVs stack up over time in terms of affordability, offering insights to help potential buyers make a well-informed decision.

Cost and Efficiency: A Tight Race

The base models of the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer are similarly priced, with the Highlander starting at $36,620 and the Explorer at $36,700. Both SUVs also have comparable fuel efficiency; the Explorer achieves 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the Highlander delivers slightly better at 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Notably, the Explorer comes with rear-wheel drive, whereas the Highlander features front-wheel drive, which might influence your choice depending on your driving style.

Five-Year Ownership Costs: A Closer Look

Over a five-year period, which encompasses depreciation, insurance, fuel, and maintenance, the Toyota Highlander is predicted to be more budget-friendly. Edmunds estimates that the Highlander will cost several thousand dollars less than the Explorer over five years. This savings is largely attributed to the Highlander’s lower repair costs and slightly superior fuel efficiency.

Choosing the Right SUV: Weighing Your Options

Even though the Highlander offers lower long-term costs, selecting the best SUV involves more than just financial considerations. Both the Highlander and Explorer have unique attributes that might cater to different preferences. Whether you value rear-wheel drive performance or enhanced fuel efficiency, it’s essential to assess each vehicle’s features and how they align with your personal needs and driving habits.