Meet the new Volvo EM90, a fully electric luxury MPV boasting 200 kW and a claimed range of 738 km. Should the likes of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class be worried?

Back in August 2023, we shared a teaser video confirming the new Volvo EM90. Now the Swedish brand has whipped the wraps off its fresh-faced fully electric luxury MPV, which looks set to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class – or, more specifically, thefully electric EQVderivative.

Arriving as the automaker’s first multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) in 96 years of operation, the EM90 is reportedly based on the Zeekr 009, a model offered in China by another of Volvo parent company Geely’s brands. The EM90, of course, made its debut in China, where pre-orders have already opened.

Powered by a 200 kW electric motor sited on the rear axle (a peak torque figure has not yet been released), the new EM90 has a claimed 0-100 kph time of 8.3 seconds. According to the Gothenburg-based firm, the 116 kWh battery pack affords the premium MPV a range of up to 738 km, according to the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC). Meanwhile, charging time from 10 to 80% is “expected to be under 30 minutes”.

Furthermore, Volvo says the new MPV is “equipped with all the hardware necessary” to enable bi-directional charging, effectively meaning the EM90’s battery pack will be able to charge other electric vehicles and appliances.

Billed as a “premium 6-seater that provides everyone with their own zone and personal space”, the new Volvo EM90’s 2nd row features lounge seats that each offer a massage function, individual heating and ventilation options, “zero-gravity” cushions (with a 7-layer structure) as well as built-in tables and cupholders.

A panoramic sunroof provides natural light to the cabin and comes with a curtain and multiple ambient lighting settings. Up front, you’ll find a 15.4-inch infotainment screen (linked to a sound system with 21 Bowers & Wilkins speakers), while an additional 15.6-inch screen is mounted in the roof. The latter folds down to provide entertainment for passengers and supports mobile screen projection.

The EM90 rides on 19- or 20-inch aero wheels, while dual-chamber air suspension is standard. It also comes fitted with a broad range of advanced driver-assistance systems.

For now, the new EM90 has been confirmed only for China, though we’d expect the luxury MPV to roll out to other markets in due course. Volvo Car South Africa has yet to announce its plans in this regard, but we will update this story should any more information comes to light.

UPDATE: Greg Maruszewski, Managing Director at Volvo Car South Africa, says: “Local demand for electric vehicles continues to grow at an encouraging pace and we’re well aware that many high-profile South Africans appreciate the space and comfort offered by luxury MPVs. While we have no official announcements to make right now regarding a possible local introduction, we do believe the high-end, fully electric EM90 will be very well received in South Africa by individuals seeking business-class levels of comfort and refinement.”

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