General information about Twin Engine

Updated 2020-03-19

Twin Engine vehicles are driven just like any other vehicle, but certain functions differ from a vehicle powered exclusively by gasoline. The electric motor powers the vehicle primarily at low speeds; the gasoline engine is used at higher speeds or during more active driving.

The instrument panel displays Twin Engine-specific information - charging information, selected drive mode, distance to discharged battery and hybrid battery charge level.

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 the optimal combination of driveability, driving experience, environmental impact and fuel economy for the selected drive mode.

In order to function optimally, the hybrid battery (and its electrical drive systems) and the gasoline engine (and its drive systems) must be at the correct operating temperature. Battery capacity can be considerably reduced if the battery is too cold or too hot. Preconditioning prepares the vehicle's drive systems and passenger compartment before driving to help reduce both wear and energy consumption. It also helps increase the hybrid battery's range.

The hybrid battery which powers the electric motor 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.

Important

No electrical current

Keep in mind that if there is no electrical current to the vehicle, i.e. the ignition is switched off or the start battery is discharged, certain functions such as brakes, power steering, etc. will not work.

Warning

If the vehicle does not have electrical current and both the electric motor and the gasoline engine are switched off, the brakes cannot be used to stop the vehicle.

Towing not permitted

Never tow a Twin Engine vehicle behind another vehicle, as this could damage the electric motor.

Exterior engine noise

Warning

Please be aware that there is no sound from the engine when the vehicle is being powered by the electric motor and it may be difficult to detect by children, pedestrians, cyclists and animals. This is especially true at low speeds.

High-voltage electrical current

Warning

A number of electrical components in Twin Engine Plug-in Hybrid vehicles 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.