Volvo has confirmed that it will put a plug-in hybrid version of its V60 estate on sale in November 2012.
Unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show in March, the company claims that the model is its most technically advanced production car to date.
The V60 plug-in hybrid will be able to travel on electricity alone for up to 32 miles and total emissions equate to 49g/km. It will have a total range of 621 miles, 285hp (215hp from the 2.4-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel engine and 70hp from the electric motor) and a 0-62mph time of 6.2 seconds.
This model marks the debut of a new D6 badge, as the drivetrain creates exactly the same amount of power as Volvo’s T6 petrol models. Equipment levels are tipped to be impressive, too, with a DVD audio system, Volvo’s OnCall connectivity package and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat.
Despite its technological prowess and strong equipment levels, the V60 plug-in hybrid is likely to come under fire for its high price. Volvo says it will start at between £45- and £50,000 before the Government’s £5000 electric car grant.
Volvo claims that the car will be most popular in its home country of Sweden, but that the UK market will account for between five and 15% of sales. Business users are expected to make up around 80% of all sales, too.