Volvo’s EV range has so far been limited to smaller vehicles like the C40 Recharge, but is now ready to tackle the high-end. The company has announced that it will unveil its “flagship” EX90 electric SUV on November 9th. While the brand is unsurprisingly shy about details, it claims the new model will offer the best standard safety features of any Volvo to date.
The trick is an improved “understanding” of the driver and the environment. The EX90 will reportedly pack a state-of-the-art sensor array that includes cameras, radar and LiDAR on the outside. In the cabin, more cameras and capacitive steering wheel sensors will detect inattention and gradually take more drastic measures to protect you, including stopping the car at the curb and calling for help.
Some of these security concepts are not new. Systems like GM’s Super Cruise check if your eyes are on the road, while Tesla cars disable autopilot and stop if you don’t put your hands on the wheel. However, Volvo is clearly hoping it offers the best safeguards, and LiDAR could offer an edge over rivals like Tesla (which doesn’t use LiDAR) and Lucid (still a relatively small brand).
It’s safe to say that the EX90 will mark a change of course. Rather than competing with the Tesla Model Y and other “entry-level” luxury SUVs or crossovers, Volvo is aiming more squarely at the high-end. This vehicle could serve as a Halo product, attracting EV buyers to the brand, even if they end up buying something more affordable.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team independently from our parent company. Some of our stories contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may receive an affiliate commission. All prices are correct at time of publication.