Volvo Car USA has announced the stateside launch of an improved Recharge plug-in hybrid powertrain, to be utilized in their 90 and 60 Series models.

The updated Recharge T8 all-wheel drive powertrain allows said hybrid vehicles to extend their all-electric range up to an EPA estimated 35-41 miles. The main improvements made to the T8 come in the form of a new long-range battery, which utilizes a third layer of cells to increase energy, and a more powerful electric motor.

The new electric motor allows for greater efficiency and performance, delivering 143 horsepower-- up from the previous rear motor’s 87 horsepower. Combined power output is 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft for Recharge T8 AWD models. The new e-motor has also aided in low speed travels, towing and in low-traction road conditions.

Other upgrades include the addition of one-pedal driving, initially available on the XC60 and S90 PHEVs. One-pedal mode allows the driver to control both acceleration and deceleration with only the accelerator-- a feature especially useful in stop-and-go traffic. This feature is already available on Volvo’s pure electric models, but will make its hybrid debut with this updated powertrain system.

“For many customers, a plug-in hybrid is their first experience in driving electric,” said Anders Gustafsson, President & CEO, Volvo Car USA. “This upgrade will show so many the benefits of an electric future, and serve as a stepping stone on their own journey toward full electrification.”

Customer research studies conducted by Volvo show that most of their plug-in hybrids are operated in pure electric mode around half of the time. They hope this powertrain upgrade will increase this number, “further cementing their position as “part-time electric cars.””

As previously reported, Volvo aims to become a fully electric car company by the year 2030, with half their vehicle sales being all-electric by 2025.