Various autonomous (semi-autonomous, really) driving features are now starting to appear more and more rapidly on the market, it seems. Volvo is now also launching a luxury car featuring such a feature.
The new vehicle in question — the Volvo S90 — is not an all-electric vehicle, it should be noted up front, but rather a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).
Going by the features and specs, it seems that the new S90 is intended as a competitor in the premium sedan market, and so could (in a way) be considered a competitor to the Model S — though, there are some obvious differences with regard to pricing, electric range, performance, etc. Still, some buyers will be cross-shopping.
A recent press release provides more:
The new Volvo S90 comes equipped with an advanced semi-autonomous drive feature, Pilot Assist. The system gives gentle steering inputs to keep the car properly aligned within lane markings up to motorway speeds of around 130 kilometers/hour and no longer needs to follow another car. Pilot Assist is another step towards full autonomous drive — a key innovation area for Volvo.
The S90 will also come with a clean and powerful T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid powertrain and one of the most luxuriously appointed interiors and connected infotainment systems in the large sedan segment.
“Our idea was to bring something entirely new to this rather conservative segment and deliver a visual expression that exudes leadership and confidence on the exterior. On the inside we have taken the S90 to the next level, delivering a high-end luxury experience that promises comfort and control,” stated Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo Car Group.
Interestingly, the S90 also features a collision detection system capable of working with large animals such as elk, moose, etc — whether at night or during the day.
Volvo says it will fully unveil the S90 at the upcoming NAIAS in Detroit, aka The Detroit Auto Show. Our own Tina Casey will be in attendance to scope out this and other EVs.
It will also come with a 3 cylinder 1.5 petrol hybrid.
Indeed.