Volvo Plans 13 New Vehicles Globally by 2030

Automobile company Volvo has announced plans to launch 13 new vehicles globally by 2030. Of these, seven models will be developed for Western markets, while six will be designed specifically for China. According to the company, the strategy marks a shift from its earlier globalised product approach towards developing vehicles tailored to regional requirements.

Models for Europe, the UK and the US will be based on Volvo existing SPA2 and SPA3 platforms and will use the company’s HuginCore computing architecture. The Western-market lineup will include new sedans and estate cars for Europe, along with a full-size electric SUV for the US market.

The six China-specific models will be developed through closer collaboration between Volvo and Geely. Chinese automotive company Geely acquired Volvo in 2010. The models will share platforms, components and supply-chain resources with Geely, enabling Volvo to tailor vehicles to local regulatory requirements and consumer preferences.

Volvo is also reconsidering the use of touchscreen controls in its vehicles. The company plans to create a greater balance between digital displays and physical buttons, with some functions potentially returning to dedicated physical controls.

Volvo design chief Thomas Ingenlath compared the approach to Leica cameras, suggesting that physical controls can be better suited for frequently used functions. However, China-market models are expected to retain a more screen-focused approach, reflecting different consumer preferences in the market.

Volvo plans to introduce a new design language through a concept vehicle in 2027, around the company’s centenary. Ingenlath confirmed that the brand’s Ironmark badge and diagonal grille slash will be reinterpreted as part of the new design direction, although further details have not been disclosed.

As part of the strategy, Volvo aims to increase the proportion of components shared with Geely to 30% by 2030, targeting around 5% savings in material costs. The company also plans to reduce corporate overheads and improve productivity, with a target of achieving a combined operating profit margin of more than 8%.

Volvo said it aims to double its share of the pure-electric vehicle segment while continuing to offer hybrid powertrains in markets where the transition to full electrification has been slower. The company has not specified which markets it expects to maintain stronger demand for hybrid vehicles through 2030.

Volvo was founded in Gothenburg in 1927 and has been majority-owned by Geely since 2010. The company currently sells vehicles in more than 100 markets worldwide.