Volvo cancels EX40 in the US, updates XC40 with better sensors and Gemini AI

Live updates

1. 2h ago

   Volvo shifts strategy with XC40 refresh and US electric model cuts

   Volvo is canceling the EX40 in North America and refreshing its 40-series crossovers with Google Gemini AI and updated safety sensors. The company is also updating the XC60 and XC90 plug-in hybrids with larger batteries and new infotainment systems. These moves follow a decision to abandon several US electric models, including the EX30 and EC40, as EV sales growth slows. The updated XC40 will feature a new exterior design and updated technology for the 2028 model year.

   Why it matters

   Volvo previously committed in 2021 to becoming an all-electric brand by 2030. The current pivot toward refreshing internal combustion and hybrid models suggests a retreat from that timeline. This shift aligns with revised electrification targets in the US market.

   What is confirmed

   • Volvo is integrating Google Gemini AI into the infotainment systems of the XC40, XC60, and XC90.
   • The 40-series crossovers are receiving a technology and safety refresh.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The XC60 and XC90 plug-in refreshes include increased battery capacity.

   What to watch next

   • Official confirmation of the revised 2030 electrification deadline
   • Detailed specifications for the 2028 XC40 sensor suite
   Sources used for this update (4)

   1. daxstreet.com — Volvo Refreshes XC40 and 40-Series Models With Google Gemini and New Technology
   2. arstechnica.com — New corners, new lights for 2028 Volvo XC40
   3. arstechnica.com — Volvo increases the batteries for 2028 XC60 and XC90 plug-in refresh
   4. autos.yahoo.com — Volvo Once Planned To Go EV-Only By 2030 — Now It's Refreshing The ICE XC40 Instead
   confidence 80%
2. 4d ago

   Volvo cancels EX40 EV in US, refreshes XC40 hybrid

   Volvo is removing the all-electric EX40 from its North American lineup next year. Simultaneously, the company is updating the XC40 plug-in hybrid for 2027 with a new look, improved sensors, and Gemini AI integration. This shift occurs as electric vehicle sales grow slower than Volvo anticipated, leading the automaker to revise its electrification targets and abandon several EV models in the US market, including the similar EC40 and the smaller EX30.

   Why it matters

   The move reflects a broader strategic pivot in North America following the elimination of the EC40. Volvo is leaning back into hybrid options for its smallest utility vehicle to counter slowing EV demand.

   What is confirmed

   • Volvo is canceling the all-electric EX40 in the United States.
   • The XC40 hybrid will receive updates for 2027 including Gemini AI and better sensors.
   • The XC40 refresh includes a new visual expression.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Volvo's decision to drop the EX40 follows a pattern where EVs have not worked well for the brand in specific markets.

   What to watch next

   • Official 2027 XC40 pricing and availability in North America
   • Further revisions to Volvo's global electrification targets
   Sources used for this update (9)

   1. The Verge — Volvo XC40 PHEV is back with a new look, better sensors, and Gemini AI
   2. Car and Driver — 2028 Volvo XC40’s Newest Nip and Tuck Is an Exercise in Subtlety
   3. NetCarShow.com — Volvo XC40 (2027)
   4. Autoweek — Gallery: 2028 Volvo XC40 Photos
   5. Automotive News — Volvo cancels EX40 EV in U.S., updates aging XC40 hybrid with ‘new expression’ in 2027
   6. Road & Track — Volvo Refreshes the XC40 SUV As EV Sales Climb Slower Than Once Expected
   7. MotorWeek — 2028 Volvo XC40 First Look: Volvo's Smallest Ute Sees a Mild-Refresh
   8. NetCarShow.com — Volvo EX40 (2027)
   9. autos.yahoo.com — Volvo Abandons EX40 EV and Updates XC40 for North America
   confidence 90%