Double awards success for Volvo’s plug-in hybrid electric technology

Volvo’s development of its plug-in hybrid electric technology has been recognised with two prestigious industry awards.

Having been the first manufacturer in the UK to offer plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) across its entire model range, Volvo has since taken the technology to a higher level, increasing the zero-emission driving range, improving fuel economy and reducing CO₂ emissions even further. Its Recharge Plug-in Hybrid models combine this eco-efficiency with high power and responsiveness, together with the hallmark Volvo qualities of superior safety and on-board connectivity, eye-catching Scandinavian styling and supreme practicality for day-to-day use.

These qualities are of particular value to the UK’s business drivers and fleet operators, for whom environmental performance and low running costs are key criteria, alongside safety, reliability and durability. In meeting these requirements, Volvo has been named the GreenFleet PHEV Manufacturer of the Year and the V90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T6 has been crowned Estate Car of the Year in the Professional Driver Car of the Year Awards.

The judges for the GreenFleet Awards were enthusiastic in their praise for Volvo’s technology and its strong combination of both power and zero-emission driving capability. Colin Boyton, GreenFleet Events Manager, said: “Research shows that the average daily mileage is just 31 miles, so Volvo’s new and improved plug-in hybrid powertrains, which give up to 56 miles of pure electric range, are more than sufficient for most users.

“With one-pedal driving capability on many models, and some delivering a staggering 449bhp, the awards just keep on coming for this year’s winner – and we are delighted to add the GreenFleet PHEV Manufacturer of the Year to that list.”

Mark Bursa, Professional Driver Editor, said: “For many private hire operators, an estate gives more versatility than a saloon, especially if you have to carry passengers with luggage. The 2021 Estate Car of the Year category was closely fought, where plug-in hybrids are still the main option for operators looking for a cleaner replacement for their diesels. Our winner offers great looks and class-leading load space, making the Volvo V90 T6 a popular choice.”

After being shortlisted in its category, the V90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T6 was evaluated at a test event by more than 100 judges, comprising the heads of leading chauffeur and private hire firms, experienced chauffeurs, and selected motoring editors and journalists. The awards, now in their 12th year, are the UK’s largest reader-judged car honours.

Rob Morris, Volvo Car UK Head of Fleet and Remarketing, said: “These awards demonstrate how we’re successfully developing our plug-in hybrid technology to give fleet and business customers a compelling proposition with greater electric driving capability and a significantly reduced total cost of ownership figure. We’re on target to deliver a fully electrified model range by 2025, and our new plug-in hybrids will provide even stronger appeal and real-world performance in the coming years.”