Volvo is one of the leading luxury automakers when it comes to electrification and the Swedish automaker is taking a significant step forward in 2023 by adding a mild-hybrid powertrain in every single vehicle. That means that every single 2023 Volvo vehicle will be electrified in some way. The rollout of the new Volvo B mild-hybrid engines started in 2022 with the introduction of the new Volvo XC60, and it will continue next year with every new Volvo models getting some mild-hybrid powertrain.
These new engines are known as the Volvo B4, B5, and B6 powertrains which replace T4, T5, and T6 powertrains respectively. The main difference between the B engines and the T engines is the addition of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that includes a 13-horsepower Integrated Starter Generator. This ISG is used to start the engine, and provide an additional boost of performance as needed. Moreover, there is a new braking system paired with the B4, B5, and B6 engines which allows the energy generated when slowing down to be sent back to the battery and used later.
The first benefit offered by Volvo B engines is improved performance. Although on paper, engines like the B5 and B6 powertrains deliver less power than their T equivalents, but we have to consider the boost provided by the ISG. The B5 engine has 247 hp while the B6 engine has 295 hp and 310 pound-feet of torque, and both engines deliver enhanced performance over their previous versions thanks to the extra 13 hp of the ISG. They are also a lot smoother and a lot more refined on the road.
Moreover, the new Volvo B4, B5, and B6 engines are a lot more efficient than the previous generation. The mild hybrid system assists with multiple functions which leads to better efficiency. Give us a call today to learn more about these new and impressive standard mild-hybrid engines found on new Volvo vehicles.