Volvo EX60 Set to Become the UK’s Longest‑Legged EV with a 503‑Mile Range
Volvo EX60 Set to Become the UK’s Longest‑Legged EV with a 503‑Mile Range
Image: Volvo EX60 Set to Become the UK’s Longest‑Legged EV with a 503‑Mile Range – Performance Comparison and Specifications
When you hear the phrase “no‑compromise electric car”, you might picture a futuristic silhouette, a silent cabin, and a range that finally puts the anxiety of charging behind you. Volvo’s upcoming EX60 promises exactly that – a 503‑mile WLTP range that will let you cruise from London to Dundee, or Paris to Amsterdam, without hunting for a charger. In this deep‑dive we’ll explore why the EX60 is generating buzz, how its design and technology stack stack up against rivals, and what it means for the UK’s EV market.
Why the 503‑Mile Figure Matters
The 503‑mile claim isn’t just a marketing number; it reflects a 106 kWh battery that is both large and efficient. Compared with the BMW iX3, which needs a 108.7 kWh usable pack to hit roughly 500 miles, the EX60 squeezes more mileage out of a slightly smaller battery. That efficiency stems from Volvo’s new SPA3 platform, a fully electric architecture that lets engineers discard the constraints of a combustion‑engine under‑body.
For UK drivers, the practical implication is simple: you can plan a weekend getaway to the Scottish Highlands, a road‑trip along the coast, or a business run to Manchester without worrying about a mid‑journey top‑up. The Autocar test drive even logged a seamless 480‑mile stretch from London to Dundee with a single charge.
Design & Dimensions – A New Look for the XC60 Family
While the EX60 retains the overall footprint of the best‑selling XC60, its styling is decidedly more aerodynamic. A lower bonnet line, smoother roofline and a wider rear diffuser all help the car cut drag, which in turn contributes to that impressive range.
| Metric | EX60 (est.) | XC60 (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,680 mm | 4,688 mm |
| Width (incl. mirrors) | 1,950 mm | 1,941 mm |
| Height | 1,650 mm | 1,658 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,875 mm | 2,873 mm |
| Ground clearance | 210 mm | 215 mm |
The front end adopts Volvo’s iconic “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights, now slimmer and more integrated into the bodywork, echoing the design language of the larger EX90.
Feature Comparison – EX60 vs. XC60 vs. BMW iX3
| Feature | Volvo EX60 | Volvo XC60 (petrol) | BMW iX3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual‑motor AWD, 300 kW | 2.0 L turbo‑petrol, 190 kW | Single‑motor RWD, 210 kW |
| Battery Capacity | 106 kWh | N/A | 108.7 kWh (usable) |
| WLTP Range | 503 mi | ~30 mi (fuel) | 500 mi |
| Fast‑charge Rate | Up to 400 kW (211 mi/10 min) | N/A | 200 kW (≈150 mi/10 min) |
| ADAS Suite | Pilot Assist + City Safety | Pilot Assist + City Safety | Driving Assistant Professional |
The EX60 doesn’t just out‑range its gasoline sibling; it also brings a more robust ADAS package, including Volvo’s famed City Safety system that can detect pedestrians, cyclists and large animals.
Engine (Powertrain) Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Li‑NMC, 106 kWh (gross) |
| Usable Capacity | ≈100 kWh |
| Motor Output | 300 kW (402 hp) total, AWD |
| Torque | 660 Nm |
| 0‑60 mph | 5.8 seconds |
| Charging (DC) | Up to 400 kW, 10 min adds ~211 mi |
| Charging (AC) | 11 kW onboard charger |
Beyond raw numbers, the SPA3 platform’s “first‑principles” approach means the battery pack sits low in the floor, giving the EX60 a centre‑of‑gravity comparable to a sports sedan – a subtle yet noticeable benefit in cornering stability.
Price Comparison – What Will It Cost?
| Model | UK Starting Price | Estimated Range (WLTP) |
|---|---|---|
| Volvo EX60 | £55,000 (estimated) | 503 mi |
| Volvo XC60 (T5) | £38,000 | ~30 mi (fuel) |
| BMW iX3 | £57,000 | 500 mi |
| Mercedes‑EQC | £65,000 | 259 mi |
While the exact price will be confirmed at the 21 January launch, the EX60 appears competitively placed against premium rivals, especially when you factor in the lower running costs of electricity versus petrol.
Technology Stack – One Software Ecosystem for All Volvo EVs
Anders Bell, Volvo’s head of engineering, describes SPA3 as “100 % electric and 100 % Volvo Cars”. The platform shares a single software stack with the EX90, ES90, and future models, allowing over‑the‑air updates, new infotainment features, and even performance boosts without a visit to the dealer. Bell likens the approach to Apple’s ecosystem, where hardware and software evolve together.
This unified architecture also means the EX60 can seamlessly integrate with the Volvo Connected Car Cloud, delivering real‑time traffic, predictive range management and remote diagnostics.
Megacasting – Reducing Cost and Complexity
One of the quieter innovations is the use of megacasting. Large sections of the underbody are now produced as a single cast piece, cutting the part count from dozens to a handful. The result? Lower production costs, fewer welds, and a stiffer chassis – all of which help keep the EX60’s price in check while maintaining the premium feel Volvo owners expect.
What the EX60 Means for the UK EV Landscape
The UK is rapidly expanding its fast‑charging network, yet range anxiety remains a barrier for many buyers. A 503‑mile EV can bridge the gap between city commuters and long‑distance travellers, making electric ownership a viable option for a broader audience. Moreover, the EX60’s ability to absorb 400 kW of power means that future ultra‑fast chargers being rolled out along motorways will truly shine.
Volvo’s commitment to safety, sustainability and Scandinavian design is now wrapped in a platform that can adapt to B‑segment city cars up to full‑size SUVs. The EX60, therefore, is not just a new model – it’s a statement that the brand’s future is fully electric.
Conclusion
With a 503‑mile range, 400 kW fast‑charging capability, and a design that feels both familiar and forward‑looking, the Volvo EX60 is poised to become the UK’s longest‑legged EV. Its SPA3 platform promises a seamless software experience, and megacasting keeps costs under control. Whether you’re a seasoned Volvo fan or a first‑time EV buyer, the EX60 offers a compelling blend of range, performance, and safety that could redefine what drivers expect from an electric SUV.
FAQ
1. How realistic is the 503‑mile WLTP range?
The figure is based on Volvo’s internal testing and aligns with WLTP methodology. Real‑world range will vary with driving style, temperature and load, but most owners can expect 470‑500 mi on a typical UK journey.
2. When will the EX60 be available in the UK?
Volvo has scheduled a public unveiling on 21 January 2025, with UK deliveries expected later in the year, likely Q3‑Q4.
3. Will the EX60 support ultra‑fast chargers beyond 350 kW?
Yes. The vehicle is engineered for up to 400 kW DC, meaning it can add roughly 211 mi in just ten minutes on a compatible charger.
4. How does the SPA3 platform differ from Volvo’s previous architecture?
SPA3 is purpose‑built for electric vehicles, removing the need for a combustion‑engine sub‑frame. It also uses a single software stack across all models, enabling faster updates and lower development costs.
5. Is the EX60 eligible for the UK Plug‑in Car Grant?
Eligibility will depend on the final price and emissions figures, but Volvo aims to keep the model within the grant’s price ceiling.
6. What ADAS features come standard?
Standard equipment includes Pilot Assist, City Safety with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Traffic Sign Recognition, and a 360‑degree camera system.
7. Will there be a rear‑wheel‑drive version?
Current plans focus on an AWD setup for optimal traction, but Volvo has hinted at a future RWD variant for lower‑cost markets.
8. How does the interior tech compare to the EX90?
The EX60 shares the same 12‑inch vertical infotainment screen, a digital instrument cluster, and the Volvo Connected Car Cloud, offering identical over‑the‑air update capabilities.
9. Can I upgrade the battery after purchase?
Volvo’s modular SPA3 design allows for future battery upgrades, but any post‑sale increase would likely be part of a service program rather than a DIY swap.
10. What is the warranty on the battery?
Volvo promises an 8‑year or 100,000‑mile warranty on the battery, whichever comes first, covering capacity loss below 70 % of the original capacity.
