Volvo EX90 gains major upgrade to 800v electrics

Volvo has undertaken major hardware and software upgrades on its EX90. It has also added key safety features to existing cars while boosting the electricals. That means 2026 MY cars will charge much faster.

The software upgrade sees the electric SUV gain a bigger Nvidia processor which brings it in line with the newer ES90.

This boost in computing power unlocks a host of additional safety features through the car’s lidar sensor. Like, for instance, the ability to steer away from pedestrians and cyclists in the dark. It also now comes to a controlled stop if the driver has a medical emergency. And it expands the car’s automatic parking ability. 

While part of the MY26 update, the upgrade will apply to existing EX90 owners. It arrives six months after the first EX90s were delivered to customers.

Volvo engineering boss, Anders Bell, called it a “unique” situation. Here Volvo could retrofit hardware because only a few cars made it to market with the old system. 

Moreover, the added computing power unlocks the ability for more impactful over-the-air software updates in future. Volvo plans to launch four major software upgrades per year, alongside regular updates.

The revamped EX90 also comes with the ES90’s 800V electrical system for its SPA2 platform. This increases the battery’s maximum charging speed from 250kW to 350kW, meaning it takes 10min to add 250km of range.

The increase in speed also results from the new system reducing heat generation during charging.

Expect improved power and acceleration too, though Volvo hasn’t yet disclosed a new 0-100km/h time. Currently the range topping EX90 covers off the sprint in 4.9sec.

No technical specifications for the MY26 EX90 are to hand yet. Pricing is expected to rise slightly.