Patent Hints Suggest Volvo’s EM90 May Become a Hybrid Vehicle in the U.S.

Volvo’s EM90 is known overseas as an electric minivan, built with luxury in mind. But recent patent filings with the United States Patent and Trademark Office show something different might be coming in the form of a version of the EM90 that acts like a hybrid vehicle. 

The U.S. patent images suggest Volvo is exploring a plug-in hybrid variation of the EM90, even though the model sold in China is fully electric. 

What the Patent Images Reveal

The patent drawings are almost identical to the existing EM90 electric version, with one notable change. On top of the charging port on the left rear quarter, there appears an extra flap on the right rear fender. Many believe that flap is for a fuel filler meaning this version would likely combine electric power with a gasoline engine, turning the minivan into a hybrid vehicle. 

It’s important to note that this is only a patent filing. Patent drawings show what a company is protecting legally, not always what it will build immediately. 

Volvo has actually stated that it does not currently plan to bring EM90 to the U.S. market. The exact timeline, confirmation of training or sales, is still under wraps. Will it be launched globally, possibly in the UAE? That remains unanswered for now.

EM90: What We Know About the Electric Version

To understand what could change, it helps to review the electric EM90 as it exists now. It’s a luxury electric minivan introduced in China, with six seats, lounge-like interiors, sliding doors, and advanced infotainment. The electric EM90 rides on Geely’s SEA platform and uses a 116 kWh battery. It offers a claimed 459 miles of range under the China CLTC cycle. 

In short, it’s built for comfort and high-end features rather than just performance numbers. Adding hybrid technology would mean maintaining many luxury attributes of the existing model while introducing versatility in power sources.

Why a Hybrid Version Makes Sense

There are several reasons why Volvo might be considering a hybrid vehicle version of the EM90. First, hybrids can ease range anxiety for buyers who worry about EV infrastructure, especially in regions where charging is still sparse. 

Second, producing a hybrid variant could allow Volvo to use the same body shell, design, and many components of the EM90 EV, achieving efficiencies in manufacturing. Finally, Volvo has plans to build a new hybrid at its Charleston factory in South Carolina before the decade ends, so this EM90 patent could be related to that strategy. 

However, Volvo has made clear it is not sure yet if the EM90 hybrid is the model that will be produced in the U.S. plant. There is still some uncertainty. 

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FAQ

Could this patent version of EM90 be sold in the U.S.?

Not yet. Volvo says it has no current plans to bring the EM90 into the U.S. market. The patent could be precautionary. 

What exactly in the patent hints at a hybrid vehicle?

The presence of a fuel filler flap on the right rear quarter of the minivan, in addition to the usual charging port on the left, suggests that Volvo may be integrating a petrol engine or fuel tank for hybrid function. 

Is the current EM90 entirely electric?

Yes. The version sold in China is fully electric with a large battery and high claimed range. 

What is Volvo’s “new hybrid” plan?

Volvo has stated it will build a new hybrid vehicle at its Charleston, SC factory by the end of the decade. It is not confirmed that this future hybrid is the EM90, but the timing and patent filing suggest it could be related. 

When will more details be known?

Volvo has not shared any schedule for release or confirmation of a hybrid EM90. More information is expected when the company reveals its plans for its U.S. hybrid models, likely closer to when production readiness is established.