HYBRID: V60 D6 AWD is a world first
Deliveries of the world’s first plug-in diesel hybrid, the Volvo V60 D6 AWD, are beginning – and British Gas are helping supply home chargepoints for customers.
The partnership, which aims to ensure buyers’ properties are prepared for the landmark vehicle, will supply free car charging packages until March 2015.
Customers who purchase the in-demand model until then will receive a 16A data-enabled chargepoint and free access to the 1,800-strong Polar Charging network across the UK.
A home-suitability survey by a British Gas electrician, access to Chargevision online account management and three years’ warranty are also included.
British Gas customers will also benefit from their Off-Peak Saver Tariff – which provides 20hours of lower rate electricity every day – and a smart meter.
Andreas Atkins, Head of Electric Vehicle Services at British Gas, said: “We’re very pleased to be supporting Volvo and its new V60 Plug-in Diesel Hybrid.
“The V60 represents another step towards electric vehicles becoming mainstream in the UK, and this partnership maintains British Gas’ position at the heart of the UK’s charging infrastructure.”
Recent updates to the Volvo V60 include a new bumper, new day-running lights and grille, and a re-profiled bonnet with hidden washer jets, front wings and headlights.
Drivers can choose the driving mode via three buttons in the dashboard that give the car three entirely different temperaments: Pure, Hybrid or Power.
In the default hybrid mode, the carbon dioxide emissions are just 48g/km.
At the touch of a button, the driver can also choose to cover up to 31miles on pure electric power.
Alternatively, they can use the combined capacity of the diesel engine and electric motor to create a veritable driving machine with 215+70hp and 440+200Nm of torque.
Production has already been doubled next year from the initial plan of 150, to 300 units for the UK.
Global production is expected to reach 10,000 units in 2014.
Iain Howat, Head of Product and Pricing at Volvo Car UK, said: “The V60 Plug-in Diesel Hybrid has been a worldwide success and within the UK we have seen great interest from customers, both in the retail and corporate sectors.
“With the car offering low CO2 emissions coupled with a high power output, the new exterior design and Volvo’s usual safety standards, plus this new fantastic offer from British Gas, we have great confidence in this vehicle as a complete package.”
