The timing would be ideal too, as Volvo – universally recognised as the king of estate cars – celebrates its centenary next year. What’s more, the product plan will see the brand expand into new segments that it is not currently active in, and the electric estate car sector is one of these.

One of the few models that we do know is coming is a new ‘sizable electric D-segment SUV’ for the American market, which should also use the SPA3 architecture and sit between the EX60 and larger seven-seat EX90. 

Petrol-powered models for the Western markets are going to be based on the SPA2 platform, as used by the XC60 and XC90. The pair were updated this week with a brand-new long-range plug-in hybrid powertrain that delivers a class-leading zero-emission driving range of up to 124 miles.

The six new models for China will be developed in collaboration with Volvo’s parent company Geely, using shared platforms and a dedicated tech stack, and will be delivered with “true China speed” to keep pace with the competition over there. Volvo already has two China-only models: the EM90 MPV and the XC70 SUV. 

However, even though Volvo is heading in a new direction with its product plan and business strategies, chief strategy and product officer Michael Fleiss gave an assurance that the brand’s core principles will not change – particularly its focus on design, safety and quality standards.

Our dealer network has 1,000s of great value new cars in stock and available now right across the UK. Find your new car…

Get the latest car news in your inbox, for FREE! Sign up to the Auto Express email newsletter...