Volvo Mild-Hybrid System Explained: What Is It?
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Volvo Cars is determined to electrify the entire lineup, which includes outfitting every new car with at least a Volvo mild-hybrid system, while others are plug-in hybrids or completely electric vehicles. This is good news for the environment and your wallet. Your Volvo model will surround you in modern luxury while also constantly saving you money at the gas pump.
To understand this new technology and how it will impact your daily driving routine, read our Volvo mild-hybrid review below. When you're ready to take command of a fuel-efficient powertrain yourself, book an appointment with our O'Steen Volvo Cars of Jacksonville team to get a personalized tour and test drive!
Understanding How the Volvo Mild-Hybrid System Works
Many Volvo vehicles that have an internal combustion engine also feature an electric motor and a hybrid battery to help drivers use fuel more efficiently than they would with a traditional gas-only model.
This is because of regenerative braking. When you stop your car, it loses energy in the process by converting it to heat that evaporates away. With the mild-hybrid system Volvo Cars has designed, some of this energy is recovered and turned into electricity instead. This electricity is stored in the battery and later transferred to the engine, boosting your fuel efficiency.
What Volvo Vehicles Use Mild-Hybrid Technology?
Every Volvo vehicle is electrified in some way. Those looking for a sedan should check out a Volvo S60 mild hybrid. The 2024 version can get up to an EPA-estimated 26/35/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 It has 11.6 cubic feet of cargo room and a 2,000-pound maximum towing capacity when properly equipped.
If you're looking for an SUV, consider getting either a Volvo XC60 mild hybrid or the three-row Volvo XC90 mild hybrid. The first comes with an EPA-estimated 22/28/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 Enjoy a total of 63.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity and the potential to tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
The Volvo XC90 SUV is a little less fuel-efficient, being heavier and having more seating on its larger frame. It gets up to an EPA-estimated 22/27/24 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 with its own Volvo B5 engine and standard AWD. The Volvo B6 engine is also available here. In exchange for having slightly lower fuel economy, you get 85.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity and can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
You can also explore the Volvo S90 sedan or Volvo XC40 compact SUV. If you're interested in a luxury wagon, come visit the Volvo V60 Cross Country or Volvo V90 Cross Country. These models round out the Volvo mild-hybrid lineup with similar fuel efficiency, capabilities, and comfort.
In most cases, you'll choose between three trim levels: Core, Plus, and Ultimate. The Core is loaded with luxuries and convenience, but you get even more as you climb the trim ladder.
What Are the Perks: A Volvo Mild-Hybrid Review
The Volvo mild-hybrid system comes with many advantages. In addition to being a gas saver, this setup will give you more power and help you avoid excessive tailpipe emissions. At the same time, these vehicles are often more competitively priced compared to the plug-in hybrid or fully electric alternatives, which further reduce or eliminate your reliance on the gas pump. However, mild-hybrid models don't need to be charged the same way those other vehicles do.
Learn More About the Volvo Mild-Hybrid System With Us
If you have any questions about this technology, talk to one of our team members at our Volvo dealer in Jacksonville. We can give you a tour and help you learn the differences between trim levels.
While in our showroom, why not take a test drive of a new Volvo mild hybrid for sale? Since we're primarily talking about the 2024 lineup, some of the latest versions of these vehicles are outfitted with the most modern tech and amenities for an upscale drive every day.
However, if we don't have exactly what you're looking for, we can help you reserve a new Volvo mild hybrid so that you can get behind the wheel of a model you absolutely adore.
FAQ
How does the Volvo mild hybrid work?
The Volvo mild-hybrid system relies on regenerative braking technology. Instead of letting excess energy be lost as heat when you brake, this system recaptures it, converts it to electricity, and stores it inside a battery. This battery helps feed the electric motor, which is paired with an internal combustion engine, to increase your luxury vehicle's power and fuel economy.
What's the difference between mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid?
Both these setups use one or more electric motors paired with an internal combustion engine. However, mild hybrids need gasoline to run. Plug-in hybrids can be driven, at least to some extent, exclusively on electric power and are often more fuel-efficient than their mild-hybrid counterparts. If you choose a plug-in hybrid, it will also need to be charged, as its name implies.
1For more information, please visit the official US government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov.