General information about electric vehicles

Updated 2024-02-12

The vehicle is equipped with a rechargeable hybrid battery1. The electric motor powers the vehicle primarily at low speeds; the gasoline engine is used at higher speeds or during more active driving.

Charging the hybrid battery

The hybrid battery is recharged using the charging cable. It can also be recharged during light braking and through engine braking in gear position B. The combustion engine can also help recharge the hybrid battery. The vehicle's start battery is charged when the hybrid battery is charged.

The hybrid battery's charging time depends on the amperage used.

While driving

The instrument panel shows charging information, selected drive mode, distance to empty battery and the hybrid battery's charge level (in % only when plugged in for charging).

Different drive modes can be selected while driving, e.g. electric power only or, if more power is needed, a combination of electric and gasoline power. The vehicle calculates a combination of driveability, driving experience, environmental impact and fuel economy for the selected drive mode.

Effect of temperature

The hybrid battery with associated electrical drive system as well as gasoline engine and its drive system, work better when they are at the correct operating temperature.

If the hybrid battery's temperature is below -10 °C (14 °F) or above 40 °C (104 °F), some of the vehicle's functions may be reduced or not available at all because the hybrid battery's capacity is reduced outside this temperature range.

The electric motor cannot be used if the battery's temperature is too low or too high.

Important

Note

The capacity of the hybrid battery diminishes somewhat with age and use, which could result in increased use of the gasoline engine and consequently, slightly higher fuel consumption.

Warning

California Proposition 65

Operating, servicing and maintaining a passenger vehicle can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine except as necessary, service your vehicle in a well ventilated area and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when servicing your vehicle. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/passenger-vehicle.

Warning

Charging the vehicle can affect the function of an implanted pacemaker or other medical equipment. People with an implanted pacemaker are recommended to consult a doctor before starting charging.

Warning

If the hybrid battery needs to be replaced, this may only be done by a Volvo retailer or authorized Volvo workshop.

Exterior engine noise

Note

Because there is no sound from the engine when only the electric motor is running, the vehicle is equipped with artificial exterior background noise at low speeds and when backing up. This warning sound is intended to help warn children, pedestrians, cyclists, animals, etc. outside the vehicle of the vehicle's approach.

High-voltage electrical current

Warning

The hybrid electrical system in your vehicle uses high voltage electrical current. Any damage to this system or to the hybrid battery may result in the danger of overheating, fire, or serious injury. If the vehicle is involved in a collision or subjected to flooding, fire, etc., have it inspected by a trained and qualified Volvo service technician. Prior to this inspection, the vehicle should be parked outdoors at a safe distance from any building or potentially flammable materials.

Warning

A number of electrical components in the vehicle use high-voltage current and can be extremely dangerous if handled incorrectly. These components and any orange wiring in the vehicle may only be handled by trained and qualified Volvo service technicians.

Do not touch anything that is not clearly described in this Owner's Manual.