Volvo is set to unveil its next fully electric model, the ES90, in the coming weeks. This vehicle represents the company’s commitment to software-defined automotive technology, designed to evolve continuously through advanced computing capabilities, connectivity, and data utilization. The ES90 aims to enhance safety and provide enjoyable driving experiences.
The ES90 will be the first Volvo model featuring a dual NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin configuration, making it the most powerful vehicle produced by the company when it comes to core computing capacity. This configuration is expected to improve safety and performance through the integration of data, software, and artificial intelligence.
NVIDIA’s DRIVE AGX Orin serves as the central computing unit for intelligent vehicles, managing critical systems at high speeds. With a computational capacity of approximately 508 trillion operations per second, it oversees various functionalities, including AI-driven active safety features, car sensors, and battery management systems.
The introduction of the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin core computer represents an eightfold enhancement in AI computing performance compared to its predecessor, DRIVE AGX Xavier. This advancement will facilitate the gradual expansion of the deep learning model and neural network from 40 million to 200 million parameters, contingent upon data collection and model development, with a focus on improving customer experience and safety.
Built on the SPA2 architecture, the ES90 is the second vehicle using Volvo’s Superset tech stack, following the EX90. This tech stack consolidates hardware and software modules across future electric models, allowing for efficient development and deployment of software improvements throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle. Over-the-air updates will enable enhancements, including connectivity features and safety upgrades, benefiting all models based on the Superset tech stack.
Anders Bell, Volvo’s chief engineering and technology officer, stated, “The Volvo ES90 is one of the most technically advanced cars on the market today and is designed to be improved further with time.” The ES90 emphasizes safety by incorporating a sophisticated array of sensors, including lidar, radars, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors, complemented by an advanced driver understanding system. These systems aim to detect obstacles and activate safety measures, such as collision avoidance.
Volvo’s Safe Space Technology is intended to create a secure environment for occupants and pedestrians. This technology is designed to mitigate accidents and enhance road safety, contributing to a more secure driving experience.
Anders Bell further noted, “We innovate in all areas of technology to become a leader in software-defined cars, and we’re channelling all our engineering efforts into one direction: making great cars that get even better over time.” The ES90 is designed to prioritize occupant safety while providing comfort during travel.
Also, the dual NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin configuration will be extended to existing EX90 vehicles, exemplifying Volvo’s philosophy of continuous improvement. Current EX90 owners will receive this upgrade at no additional cost.
The official reveal of the Volvo ES90 is scheduled for March 5, 2025.
