Electric Cars

Volvo is introducing a series of noteworthy upgrades for its 2026 EX90 electric SUV, expanding its powertrain options and boosting the performance of its top-tier model. These revisions include the addition of a more accessible entry-level variant and significant power enhancements for the Twin Motor Performance model, alongside improvements to its electrical architecture for more efficient charging.

The updated Volvo EX90 lineup aims to offer a broader appeal to consumers, with a focus on both affordability and elevated performance. The introduction of a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive base model makes the EX90 more competitive in its segment, while the enhanced power of the Twin Motor Performance version underscores Volvo's commitment to dynamic driving experiences in its electric vehicle offerings. These changes, coupled with advanced charging technology, position the EX90 as a strong contender in the evolving electric SUV market.

The Refined 2026 Volvo EX90: Powertrain Evolution and Pricing Adjustments

For the 2026 model year, the Volvo EX90 electric SUV is undergoing substantial modifications, bringing new powertrain configurations and updated pricing. The most notable addition is a new single-motor, rear-wheel-drive entry-level model, which will be available for less than $80,000, specifically starting at $78,090. This variant is equipped with a 329-horsepower motor, providing a more accessible option for prospective buyers. The existing Twin Motor model also sees improvements, with its dual electric motors now producing 449 horsepower, an increase from its previous 402 horsepower, and starts at $81,390. Furthermore, the top-of-the-line Twin Motor Performance model receives a considerable power boost, now delivering an impressive 670 horsepower, up from 510 horsepower, and begins at $86,390. These revisions are part of a broader update that includes a new 800-volt electrical architecture and enhanced charging capabilities, making the EX90 more efficient and versatile.

The comprehensive updates to the Volvo EX90 for its second model year are designed to enhance its market position through a strategic balance of performance and value. The introduction of the single-motor, rear-wheel-drive variant aims to attract a wider audience by offering a lower entry price point for luxury electric SUV ownership. Concurrently, the significant increase in horsepower for the Twin Motor Performance model demonstrates Volvo's intent to compete vigorously in the high-performance EV segment. These powertrain enhancements are complemented by advanced technological upgrades, such as the adoption of an 800-volt electrical system, which promises faster charging times and improved overall efficiency. Although official EPA range figures for the various configurations are still pending, Volvo has indicated that the 2026 EX90 Twin Motor's maximum rated range might see a slight adjustment to 305 miles due to a marginally smaller 102-kWh battery pack. Further details regarding range and other specifications are anticipated closer to the vehicle's official U.S. launch.

Advanced Technology and Charging Efficiency in the 2026 EX90

Beyond the revised powertrain options, the 2026 Volvo EX90 integrates several technological advancements focused on improving its electrical system and charging efficiency. A key update is the implementation of an 800-volt electrical architecture, which is a significant upgrade from previous systems. This high-voltage architecture allows for faster charging rates, reducing the time required to replenish the battery and enhancing convenience for owners. In addition to the hardware improvements, the EX90 will also benefit from various software updates, ensuring that its onboard systems are optimized for performance, safety, and user experience. These technological enhancements are crucial for maintaining the EX90's competitive edge in a rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape.

The integration of an 800-volt electrical system in the 2026 Volvo EX90 represents a forward-looking approach to electric vehicle design, directly addressing one of the primary concerns of EV ownership: charging speed. This advanced architecture facilitates rapid energy transfer, meaning drivers can spend less time waiting and more time on the road. Coupled with ongoing software improvements, the EX90 is poised to deliver a seamless and intuitive user experience. While precise EPA range estimates for the different configurations are yet to be finalized, Volvo has provided preliminary insights, noting a potential minor reduction in the Twin Motor model's maximum range to 305 miles due to a slightly downsized 102-kWh battery pack. Despite this adjustment, the overall package of enhanced performance, faster charging, and sophisticated technology underscores Volvo's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the electric SUV market, with more detailed information expected as the 2026 model's U.S. release date approaches.

Toyota is set to undergo a major executive restructuring, with current Chief Financial Officer Kenta Kon slated to assume the position of Chief Executive Officer starting April 1. This comes just three years after Koji Sato took the helm, following Akio Toyoda's departure. Sato will transition to a new role as vice chairman and chief industry officer, a move designed to alleviate his workload and enable him to concentrate on wider industry affairs, including his recent appointment as chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association. Yoichi Miyazaki, executive vice president, will step into the CFO role previously held by Kon. This strategic shift underscores Toyota's focus on optimizing internal company management and enhancing profitability under Kon's leadership, who is recognized for his business-centric approach.

Toyota's Leadership Evolution: A New Era for Profitability and Industry Focus

In a significant executive reorganization set to take effect on April 1, Japanese automotive giant Toyota will welcome Kenta Kon as its new Chief Executive Officer. Kon, who currently serves as Toyota's Chief Financial Officer, will succeed Koji Sato, who had assumed the top leadership position in 2023. This change marks a notable shift in Toyota's executive strategy, aiming to bring a more business-focused perspective to the company's core operations.

Koji Sato, who previously led the Lexus brand and Gazoo Racing division, will transition to the roles of vice chairman and chief industry officer. This move is intended to free Sato to dedicate more time to broader industry initiatives, particularly given his recent appointment as chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association in January. Toyota stated that Sato will concentrate on the automotive sector as a whole, while Kon will steer the internal management of the company.

Kenta Kon is described by industry observers as a long-standing confidant of former CEO Akio Toyoda, the grandson of Toyota's founder. Unlike his predecessors, whose backgrounds were primarily rooted in automotive engineering, Kon brings a strong financial and business management background to the CEO position. His primary objective, as he articulated at a Tokyo press conference, will be to establish a robust profit structure for Toyota. He emphasized his desire to utilize these enhanced financial resources to invest in the company's future, enabling more audacious endeavors and innovations.

Accompanying Kon's promotion, Yoichi Miyazaki, currently an executive vice president, will take on the role of Chief Financial Officer, a position he has held previously. This reshuffling reflects Toyota's ongoing efforts to refine its leadership structure, ensuring that specialized expertise is strategically deployed to meet the evolving demands of the global automotive market.

This executive transition at Toyota highlights the dynamic nature of leadership within global corporations, particularly in an industry as transformative as automotive manufacturing. The move to appoint a CEO with a strong financial background signals Toyota's intent to prioritize profitability and strategic investment in its future. It will be compelling to observe how Kon's leadership, coupled with Sato's broader industry engagement, shapes Toyota's trajectory in the coming years, especially as the company navigates the complexities of electrification, autonomous driving, and sustainable mobility. This strategic alignment of leadership roles could foster a more agile and financially resilient Toyota, poised to address both immediate market challenges and long-term innovation goals.