Volvo EM90 teased: the estate is dead, long live the MPV

Contrasting the usual drip feed of teaser pics, specification releases and camouflaged prototypes, the EM90 is set for a refreshingly quick turnaround, available to order from its reveal date on 12^th November. 

What can we tell you now? Not so much. Volvo has only released one picture of the car – an overhead shot that confirms its substantial size and lounge-like interior, complete with a panoramic roof dedicated to rear-seat passengers.

It's likely to be based on the luxurious six-seater Zeekr (also owned by Geely) 009 MPV shown above. Such a platform would provide the ample rear legroom demanded by the Chinese market. 

Closer inspection of the single image backs up this theory. The picture confirms a Zeekr-matching middle row of two captain chairs that recline to near-horizontal levels for business class-like comfort. Meanwhile, a large chrome centre latch points to this Volvo, with its sliding rear doors (another Zeekr 009 feature), giving excellent cabin access.

Expect the bulky style of the Zeekr to carry through, too. It already lends itself well to Volvo's current design language, and – once you have added a Volvo grille and Thors Hammer headlights – few will know the difference. 'Volvo' scrolled (and illuminated) across the boot lid will make it clear to anyone not in the know. 

You'll likely see Volvo's character stamped most clearly inside. The official pic confirms the EM90 car will get the same free-standing, portrait-style infotainment screen as the EX90, and you'll also be able to specify the company's excellent Bowers & Wilkins stereo. The vast infotainment screen will lend the interior a minimalist design with the same huge swathes of leather, wood and wool – materials often found in Volvo's other high-end models. 

Using the same underpinnings as the Zeekr 009, the Volvo is set to pack a massive 140kWh battery, giving the EM90, which is likely to weigh nearly three tonnes, a range of more than 500 miles. Expect to be able to choose between rear- and four-wheel drive versions, the latter offering up to more than 500PS (368kW) for 0-62mph in less than five seconds. 

The silent running of the electric powertrain will make the EM90 feel surprisingly luxurious. Expect to be given the option to fit cosseting air suspension, too.

If the EX90 did come to the UK – which seems unlikely given our disinterest in MPVs – it would likely be the range-topper sitting ahead of the C40 Recharge, XC40 Recharge, EX30 and EX90.