KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Sales of Volvo's fully electric cars surged by 70% in 2023
- Global electric market share for Volvo reached 34% in 2023
- Company to maintain a mixed portfolio with plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid models
Volvo has made a significant decision to halt the production of diesel cars, marking a historic moment in its 97-year legacy. This decision was unveiled earlier during Climate Week NYC in September 2023, and the promise has now been fulfilled with the final Volvo V60 rolled off the production line in February 2024 at the Ghent plant in Belgium. Recently, the Torslanda plant in Sweden bid farewell to its last XC90 diesel car. Read on to discover more details and learn about Volvo's future plans. Also, you can join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group for the latest automotive updates.
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Volvo: Roadmap For The Future
In response to the growing interest in electric vehicles, Volvo has embraced this shift. Just five years ago, diesel cars dominated Volvo's sales, but now, amidst the global trend towards EVs, Volvo has joined in. In 2023, they saw a 70% increase in sales of fully electric cars and captured a 34% share of the global electric vehicle market. They plan to go all-electric by 2030 and aim for climate neutrality by 2040.
Despite moving towards an electric future, they also plan to maintain a diverse portfolio, including high-quality plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid models. The very last Diesel Volvo XC90, sporting a beautiful blue hue, will soon find its forever home at the World of Volvo museum. This special vehicle won't be available for purchase, as it's destined for display purposes only.
In India, the company offers a range of models including the C40 Recharge, XC40 Recharge, XC60, XC90, and S90.
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A Peek Into The History Of Volvo: From Past To Present
Volvo introduced its first diesel car in 1979 dubbed the Volvo 244 GL D6. It featured the world's first six-cylinder diesel engine for passenger cars. In 2001, they launched the V70 with a self-built diesel engine, later used in the S60 Challenge. The Drive-E lineup in 2008 showcased efficient 1.6-litre diesel engines. In 2012, the carmaker introduced the V60 D6 plug-in hybrid, and the following year saw the debut of their self-developed diesel engine series, Volvo Engine Architecture (VEA).
This engine powered models like the second-generation XC90 and the last diesel-powered V60 and XC90. In 2023, they sold their stake in Aurobay to transition away from combustion engines. In 2024, the company creates another history as it bids a fond farewell to its diesel models, with the curtain falling on their last production rolling off the line.
Verdict
Volvo's decision to end diesel car production reflects a proactive approach towards aligning with the global trend towards electric mobility. By focusing on electric and hybrid models, Volvo demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the automotive industry.
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