The engine produces 238 hp (177 kW) and 350 N·m (258 lb-ft) of torque. Other key components in the powertrain are a crankshaft-driven ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) between the engine and the 8-speed automatic gearbox and a 68 hp (50 kW) electric motor powered by a 11.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed under the floor of the load compartment.

S60L PPHEV Concept. Click to enlarge.

The driver selects the required driving mode via three buttons: Pure, Hybrid or Power.

In the default hybrid mode, the carbon dioxide emissions are about 50 g/km. This corresponds to fuel consumption of 2.0 l/100 km (118 mpg US).

By selecting Pure, the driver can choose to cover up to 50 km (31 miles) on all electric power; the Power mode combines the capabilities of the engine and motor to deliver 306 horsepower (225 kW), 550 N·m (4046 lb-ft) of torque and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.5 seconds.

This on-demand possibility to choose between different driving modes makes the plug-in hybrid the perfect choice for the uncompromising customer who wants minimum carbon dioxide emissions combined with maximum driving pleasure. The electric range covers the needs of most Chinese commuters, and the car has a total range of about 1,000 km (621 miles) in hybrid mode.

—Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President, Research and Development at Volvo Cars

The S60L PPHEV Concept Car can be recharged from a regular power outlet (230V/6A to 16A fuse) at home or in a car park. The recharging time varies with the amperage. A full charge with 10A takes 4.5 hours, while a 16A charge takes it down to 4.0 hours.

Pressing the AWD button activates electric four-wheel drive. Instead of the mechanical power transfer of conventional four-wheel drive, the central control unit distributes power between the gasoline-driven front wheels and the electrically driven rear axle.