December 6, 2024

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Volvo EX90: The Electric SUV That Can Power Your Home and Save Lives

Volvo’s latest flagship, the EX90, isn’t just another electric vehicle competing in a crowded market—it’s aiming to redefine what an SUV can do. Launched in Southern California, far from its Swedish roots, the EX90 is designed for Americans, by Americans, and packed with enough tech to make a Tesla blush. But while many automakers focus on flashy exteriors or racing from zero to sixty, Volvo’s EX90 seems more concerned with saving lives—yours and your wallet’s.

Let’s start with the headline feature: bi-directional charging. Yes, you read that correctly—this SUV can not only charge itself, but also power your home or even lend energy to another electric Volvo. Picture this: you’re in the middle of a blackout, your fridge is on the fritz, and suddenly your Volvo comes to the rescue, keeping the lights on. The EX90 turns into a 21st-century Swiss Army knife for energy emergencies. And if you’re stuck without a charger? Its “Plug and Charge” tech makes recharging as easy as plugging in your phone—no complex apps or unnecessary swipes required. Convenience at its finest.

But there’s a more serious side to the EX90’s bag of tricks. Volvo has integrated a groundbreaking radar system inside the cabin, designed to detect even the faintest of movements—like the quiet breathing of a sleeping child. Why? Because since 1998, over 900 children have tragically died in the U.S. after being left in hot cars. Volvo’s radar tech aims to make such tragedies a thing of the past. It’s essentially the SUV equivalent of Mary Poppins—practically perfect in every way and watching over you, always.

On the road, the EX90’s capabilities continue to impress. A cutting-edge lidar system integrated into the roofline can detect small objects hundreds of meters away, even at highway speeds. Think of it as your very own co-pilot, always looking further ahead than your human eyes ever could. This leap in technology nudges Volvo closer to its autonomous driving goals while keeping you safer—day or night, rain or shine.

Inside, the EX90 continues to flex its tech muscles with a massive 14.5-inch screen and seamless Google integration, powered by 5G connectivity. And if that isn’t enough, it also packs 25 Bowers & Wilkins speakers with Dolby Atmos, transforming your car into a rolling concert hall. Imagine it: you’re stuck in traffic, but at least your sound system could rival Carnegie Hall.

Now, you might think all this gadgetry and innovation would lead to a car that looks like it was designed by committee. Fortunately, that’s not the case. The EX90 has the elegant proportions of a luxury yacht—because why shouldn’t your SUV aspire to be both sleek and seaworthy? Its aerodynamic design isn’t just for show either. With a drag coefficient of 0.29, it slices through the air with minimal resistance, maximizing its electric range. Speaking of range, the EX90 can travel up to 308 miles on a single charge, and if you’re in a rush, you can get from 10% to 80% charged in just 30 minutes. It’s like refueling, but faster, cleaner, and with a side of smugness.

Volvo has priced the EX90 just below $80,000, a figure that will undoubtedly rise north of $90,000 depending on your choice of options—because who doesn’t want a 510 horsepower version of their family SUV?

Now, for the contrarian in the room: yes, it’s a bit of a splurge for a car whose primary role is to take your kids to soccer practice. But it’s also a bid for the future, both in terms of sustainability and safety. Volvo plans to go fully electric by 2040, and with models like the EX90, they’re not just keeping up with the competition—they’re setting the pace. And for the skeptics questioning Volvo’s bold electric pivot, here’s a thought: the XC90, the EX90’s predecessor, has a spotless record—literally. Between 2004 and 2017, no driver or passenger has ever been fatally injured in an XC90, a stat even the most cynical car buyer can’t ignore.

In the world of electric SUVs, the Volvo EX90 isn’t just a newcomer—it’s a game-changer. And as the brand edges closer to its electric future, one thing is certain: this isn’t just a car. It’s an energy source, a tech hub, a lifesaver—and it looks pretty good in your driveway too.

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  • Test Miles covers the car industry, from new cars to giving potential buyers all the background and information on buying a new vehicle.

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