Volvo plugs into the demand for ‘green’ motoring

Carbon dioxide emissions are under 50 g/km, “which translates into fuel consumption of 150 miles per gallon”, says the Swedish team.

“In order to get true car enthusiasts to think green, you have to offer them the opportunity to drive with low carbon dioxide emissions without taking away the adrenaline rush that promotes genuine driving pleasure. The V60 Plug-in Hybrid has all the traditional properties of a genuine sports wagon. What we’ve done is to spice it up with spearhead technology,” says Stefan Jacoby, the Volvo chief.

Sales begin next year, and Volvo claims it will be the first manufacturer on the market with this new breed of hybrid. The range on electricity is said to be 32 miles.

The front wheels of the V60 Plug-in Hybrid will be driven by a five-cylinder 2.4-litre turbo diesel, which produces 215 horse power and maximum torque of 324 lb ft.

The rear axle has an electric motor which produces some 70 horse power, from a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

The gearbox is six-speed automatic.

Details of prices and specific market introductions are still not declared.