The introduction of Volvo’s SPA3 platform could revolutionize the conventional view of electric cars. In recent years, automakers have seemingly agreed: if it’s electric, it has to be tall, bulky, and resemble a wardrobe on wheels. Station wagons and sedans, once Volvo’s trademark, have fallen by the wayside of progress. Now, the Swedish brand aims to remind us that a car can be both practical and elegant, and that an electric vehicle doesn’t have to be yet another SUV.
SPA3 isn’t just another platform for electric vehicles. It’s been designed from scratch to give designers the kind of freedom they could only dream of before. There’s no longer a need to compromise proportions for the sake of a battery, which traditionally dictates the height and width of the body. Now, batteries can be located not only between the axles but also in front of the front wheels, opening up new possibilities for weight distribution and cabin layout. As a result, Volvo promises to bring back the very wagons and sedans that once made the brand legendary among family drivers.
Flexibility without compromise
Unlike the previous SPA2, whose architecture was adapted for electrification with an eye on gasoline and diesel engines, SPA3 has shed the baggage of the past. Without an internal combustion engine, exhaust system, or fuel tanks, engineers were able to rethink the platform from the ground up. Now it’s possible to build both low and high vehicles without worrying that the battery will spoil the appearance or the comfort of the passengers.
Volvo’s technical director Anders Bell does not hide his satisfaction: now engineers can design cars of any height and shape. Previously, the battery forced the floor—and consequently the roof—to be raised, but now the seats can be lowered, the roofline can be made lower, and ergonomics can be restored to resemble those of classic sedans. Even rear passenger legroom is no longer compromised—part of the batteries is moved forward instead of under the floor.
The advantage is clear: EVs on the SPA3 platform will no longer look like oversized crossovers but can take the form of proper passenger cars. This is not just about aesthetics, but also aerodynamics and handling. At a time when everyone is chasing versatility, Volvo reminds us that individuality is not a crime.
New opportunities for design
SPA3 allows the creation of vehicles with different body heights, widths, and even cabin types. Not only wagons and sedans can be built, but also minivans if someone decides they’re back in style. The main thing is that now there’s no need to compromise between battery capacity and passenger comfort. Battery modules can be arranged in a way that doesn’t interfere with the driver, passengers, or designers.
Modern electric cars often sacrifice seating comfort for a flat battery under the floor. SPA3 solves this issue: part of the battery moves forward, freeing up legroom and allowing the seats to be lower. As a result, the interior becomes more spacious and comfortable, and the exterior looks more balanced. This is especially important for those tired of standard SUVs and longing for the return of classic shapes.
Volvo is in no rush to reveal everything, but hints: now, it’s possible to make cars “very low, very stylish” without worrying that the battery will ruin the proportions. In theory, this paves the way for electric versions of the S60, S90, V60, and V90—models that were once symbols of practicality and style.
Emphasis on individuality
While other brands keep cloning crossovers, Volvo focuses on diversity. SPA3 isn’t just a technical platform; it’s a tool to bring individuality back to the world of electric cars. The brand can now release not only another “universal” SUV, but also cars for those who appreciate comfort, style, and tradition.
Volvo engineers emphasize: it’s now possible to design cars of any height, width, and purpose. Want a sleek sedan? No problem. Dreaming of a stylish wagon? Easy. Even a minivan—if someone decides it’s in demand again. Everything depends on the imagination of designers and the needs of customers.
The arrival of SPA3 could mark the beginning of a new era for Volvo and the entire electric vehicle market. While EVs used to be associated with compromises, they can now embody both style and convenience. All that remains is to hope the Swedes follow through and truly bring back the very wagons and sedans that once made Volvo a legend.
Volvo is a Swedish automaker that for decades has been synonymous with safety, practicality, and the clean lines of Scandinavian design. In recent years, the company has made a major shift toward electric cars, but hasn’t forgotten its roots. The new SPA3 platform is an attempt to revive individuality and diversity at a time when the industry is focused on crossovers. For many fans of the brand, this is a long-awaited chance to see not just another SUV on the roads, but real wagons and sedans—the very models that once brought Volvo its fame.
