Volvo launches world first hybrid

January 2012

Volvo has used the first automotive show of the year to unveil a car unlike any other - a hybrid concept that doesn't require a special adapter to plug into a traditional wall outlet.

Speaking at the North American International Auto Show yesterday (January 9), president of Volvo US John Maloney announced plans for a Volvo XC60 Gasoline Plug-in Hybrid Concept.

The Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid will see a petrol engine featured alongside the electric unit - resulting in a fuel consumption level of just 2.3 litres per 100 kilometres.

Three power modes will be available for the driver to choose from - pure, hybrid and power.

When in Pure Mode, the Volvo XC60 is powered solely by the electric motor and can travel up to 45 kilometres. Power Mode sees the combination of both engines to deliver acceleration of up to 60 miles - or 96.5 kilometres - per hour in just 5.8 seconds.

According to Volvo, the Hybrid Mode sees the two engines "cooperate to provide maximum driving pleasure with minimum environmental impact".

According to Drive, while the car is currently under consideration for Australia, production of the car is likely - particularly when the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid sedan is expected to arrive on European shores later this year.