How is the ES90 Volvo's Most Sustainable EV to Date?

Volvo Cars' fully electric ES90 model has set a new benchmark in sustainable automotive production.

The ES90 is designed with a sustainability-first mindset, ensuring its production and operation align with ecological goals.

The total carbon footprint of the ES90 stands at 31 tonnes when calculated with a European energy mix, and it reduces further to 26 tonnes when powered by wind energy.

Compared to the Volvo S90 mild hybrid variant, the ES90's footprint is 50% lower and it shows a 30% reduction compared to the plug-in hybrid S90.

“We go above and beyond existing legislation and have clear ambitions because that is important to us,” says Vanessa Butani, Head of Global Sustainability at Volvo Cars. 

“We aim to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 and our ambition to be a leader in electrification is one step in that direction.

"The ES90 represents our holistic approach to sustainability, including the circular economy, climate-neutral manufacturing and responsible business.” 

The first automotive manufacturer to release LCA reports

Volvo has committed to release Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) reports for all its global fully electric models.

Since introducing its fully electric cars in 2019, Volvo has provided LCA reports for models such as EX40, EC40, EX30, EX90, and now the ES90.

These reports support consumers to make informed choices based on the environmental impact of their vehicle.

The ES90 features a new 800-volt electric system with lighter components, optimising the car’s energy efficiency. Its aerodynamic design achieves a drag coefficient of 0.25, the most efficient in Volvo's history.

Additionally, the ES90 integrates 29% recycled aluminium, 18% recycled steel and 16% recycled polymers, complemented by bio-based materials like FSC-certified wood in its interior.

Volvo's battery passport for the ES90 uses blockchain technology to trace the origin of raw materials and monitor battery health throughout its lifecycle.

Sustainable procurement and supply chain

Volvo extends its environmental responsibility to its entire value chain, engaging directly with suppliers to promote the use of climate-neutral energy sources in their operations.

Since September 2023, suppliers have been mandated to report recycled material content via the International Material Data System (IMDS), enhancing material traceability and ensuring uniformity across the supply base.

A guideline for carbon footprint reporting has been established, standardising methodologies and facilitating comparability among suppliers.

Eleven directly contracted suppliers have transitioned to 100% renewable electricity for manufacturing, effectively reducing carbon emissions by 0.1 tonnes CO₂e per vehicle in material production and refinement phases.

Volvo's dedication to recycling is evident in its material usage:

• 75% recycled aluminium is used in wheels, with the primary aluminium sourced through renewable energy processes.
• 30 to 40% recycled aluminium is incorporated in the battery tray and extruded aluminium for the vehicle body.
• 80% recycled copper is utilised in electric motor wiring.
• 80% recycled magnesium supports the cross-car beam.
• Up to 50% recycled PP and PC+ABS are used for the instrument panel.
• 48% natural materials are applied in door panels, with 98% in instrument panels and trim mouldings.
• 100% recycled PA is used for carpet yarn.
• 67% bio-based PA11, derived from castor oil, is employed in battery cooling pipes.