Polestar software makes XC90 T8 most-powerful Volvo ever
New-generation Polestar optimisation software is now available for the new Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine, making the world’s cleanest SUV even faster and more inspiring to drive.
Polestar optimisation increases overall output from the Drive-E petrol engine and Electric Rear Axle Drive system to 311 kW and 680 Nm, and drops the 0-100 km/h sprint time to 5.5 seconds – all with unchanged, class-leading fuel consumption of 2.1-litres per 100 km (according to European PHEV regulations) and a maximum 43 km of pure electric range.
The increase in power and torque has been effected to the turbo- and supercharged Drive-E petrol engine, which sees power increase from 235 kW to 246 kW and a 40 Nm jump in torque, from 400- to 440 Nm. Electric motor output remains unchanged at 65 kW and 240 Nm.
The new-generation Polestar optimisation not only enhances the engine’s performance, but tweaks the entire drivetrain in five key areas as well. By improving throttle response, gearshift hold, speed and precision, as well as overall engine performance, the XC90 T8 Twin Engine reaches a new level of driving pleasure.
One of the main features of the new optimisation is the gear-hold function, which holds the selected gear during cornering with high lateral g-forces. This prevents unwanted gearshifts mid-corner that can unsettle the balance of the car, providing the driver with improved response and control during spirited driving.
Reigning four-time Scandinavian Touring Car Championship (STCC) champion and current Polestar Cyan Racing driver in the FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC), Thed Björk has been part of the optimisation development.
“It is amazing for me as a racing and development driver to be able to work with the same kind of technology and philosophy on the XC90 as with my S60 race car. While an SUV like the XC90 might be far from what we usually work with, the core of the optimisation is the same. It is about creating driving pleasure and usable performance, something I definitely think we have achieved,” says Björk, who drives a Volvo S60 Polestar TC1 with Drive-E technology in the WTCC.
Polestar optimisation software can be ordered through any Volvo Cars dealer in South Africa, and all changes which are part of the Polestar optimisation are made with all certified emissions, fuel consumption, service intervals and Volvo warranties unchanged.
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