Volvo Supercharges EX90 with 800V Architecture and NVIDIA Orin Upgrade
The electric vehicle landscape is constantly evolving, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of technology and performance. Volvo, a name synonymous with safety and innovation, is at the forefront of this transformation. Building on the recent unveiling of their ES90 sedan featuring cutting-edge 800V architecture, Volvo has announced a significant upgrade for its flagship electric SUV, the EX90. The existing EX90 models will receive a complimentary hardware upgrade to incorporate the advanced 800V charging system and the powerful NVIDIA Drive AGC Orin platform, solidifying its position as a leader in the electric SUV segment.
This move signifies Volvo’s commitment to providing its customers with the latest technology and enhancing the ownership experience. The decision to offer the 800V upgrade free of charge to existing EX90 owners demonstrates Volvo’s dedication to customer satisfaction and its belief in the long-term value of its electric vehicles. Instead of forcing consumers to purchase a brand-new vehicle to access the latest advancements, Volvo is actively investing in enhancing the capabilities of its existing fleet.
The transition to an 800V architecture is a game-changer for electric vehicle charging. Traditional 400V systems, while adequate, can be limiting when it comes to rapid charging. The 800V system significantly reduces charging times, making electric vehicle ownership more convenient and practical. With the upgraded EX90, drivers can expect to gain an impressive 300 kilometers (approximately 186 miles) of range in just 10 minutes of charging. To provide a comparative perspective, the ES90, which already boasts the 800V architecture, can charge from 10% to 80% in a mere 20 minutes. This drastic reduction in charging time alleviates range anxiety and makes long-distance travel in the EX90 significantly more appealing.
However, Volvo Cars CEO Jim Rowan tempered immediate expectations, stating that the upgrade will be rolled out during one of the future model year changes, indicating a timeframe that isn’t imminent. While the exact timeline remains unclear, the announcement itself is a testament to Volvo’s ongoing commitment to innovation and its desire to continuously improve its products.
Beyond the enhanced charging capabilities, the EX90 will also benefit from the integration of the NVIDIA Drive AGC Orin platform. This powerful computing platform is a cornerstone of modern automotive technology, enabling advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous driving features, and sophisticated infotainment experiences. The NVIDIA Orin platform offers unparalleled processing power, allowing the EX90 to handle complex data streams from its array of sensors and cameras. This enhanced processing capability will translate into improved safety features, more responsive driver assistance systems, and a richer, more immersive in-car experience.
The addition of NVIDIA Orin mirrors the technology already implemented in the ES90 sedan. By extending this cutting-edge platform to the EX90, Volvo ensures a consistent and advanced technological experience across its electric vehicle lineup. The Orin platform empowers the EX90 to adapt and evolve over time, allowing for future software updates and the potential for even more advanced features as technology progresses.
CEO Jim Rowan’s enthusiastic appraisal of the EX90 further underscores the vehicle’s significance. He described the EX90 as "the best car we have ever built," highlighting its exceptional charging performance, handling, ride comfort, quiet cabin, legendary sound system, reliability, technology, and user interface. His experience driving the EX90 over 950 kilometers (approximately 590 miles) in various driving conditions and road surfaces solidified his conviction that the EX90 represents a new era for Volvo Cars. This strong endorsement from the company’s leader speaks volumes about the quality and innovation embedded within the EX90.
The Volvo EX90 represents a significant step forward in the electric SUV market. With its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and now, the added benefits of 800V architecture and the NVIDIA Orin platform, the EX90 is poised to be a leading contender in its class. The commitment to offering these upgrades free of charge demonstrates Volvo’s dedication to its customers and its belief in the long-term value of its electric vehicles. While the precise timing of the upgrade remains uncertain, the announcement itself is a clear indication of Volvo’s ongoing commitment to innovation and its pursuit of excellence in the electric vehicle space.
The transformation of the Volvo EX90 with the 800V architecture and NVIDIA Orin platform underscores the rapid pace of innovation within the electric vehicle sector. As battery technology continues to evolve and charging infrastructure expands, electric vehicles are becoming increasingly practical and appealing to a wider audience. Volvo’s commitment to embracing these advancements and delivering them to its customers solidifies its position as a leader in the transition to a sustainable automotive future.
