This weekend, I visited the Starfield Hanam showroom with a friend who is considering purchasing a Volvo XC60.
My friend planned to buy this model since summer, but after hearing that the delivery would take nearly a year, he hesitated.
Eventually, he decided to check out the showroom after hearing that the delivery times have significantly decreased.
What caused the significant reduction in the delivery wait time for the 2024 XC60?
I asked a salesperson I know from Bucheon about it, and he explained that the materials and parts are manufactured in Sweden and then assembled in China, which has allowed the stock to be released.
This means that unlike the previous wait of over a year, customers can expect delivery within a month.
The domestic supply had been severely lacking, but since it takes only a week by boat from the neighboring country, it’s no surprise that the delivery times have shortened.
During our conversation, I asked my friend how he felt about this situation, and he said it didn’t concern him at all.
He argued that there’s no need to manufacture the final product in Sweden, where labor and factory costs are high.
Those who share this viewpoint can simply enjoy the positive effects of the reduced wait times.
The delivery times for the B5 and B6 gasoline models have shortened, but what about the plug-in hybrid T8?
However, not all engines are affected by this change.
Only the B5 and B6 mild hybrid gasoline models are completed at the Chinese factory, while the plug-in hybrid T8 is not included in this reduction.
If this measure proves successful, they will likely continue it.
With the Swedish factory operating at full capacity, if customer orders remain steady, similar measures might be implemented in the future.
Plug-in hybrid T8 and mild hybrid gasoline B6 specifications and model comparison
The 2024 XC60 plug-in hybrid T8 can travel up to 38 miles on pure electric power, according to its specifications.
I heard from a colleague who owns one that the T8 indeed showcases various advantages.
Even in winter, when battery efficiency tends to drop, he could comfortably drive 25 miles on electric power.
If he couldn’t charge, he could still drive using gasoline, which alleviated concerns about fuel efficiency and electric charging.
My friend currently drives a used car that he has had for a long time, but it has poor fuel efficiency due to its high engine capacity.However, my friend noted that the T8 still has a delivery wait time exceeding a year, leading him to consider the mild hybrid gasoline B6, which has a quicker delivery time.
Therefore, the B6 model, which can be delivered within a month, seems like the best choice.
For those unfamiliar with the differences between the two models, let’s compare their specifications.
Overall Width: 6.2 feet
Engine: Inline 4-cylinderDisplacement: 120 cu in
The T8 features the same 2.0L gasoline engine as the B6, but it also includes an electric motor, showing superior performance, fuel efficiency, and power in all aspects.
My friend ultimately decided on the B6 model, which has a quicker delivery time, but he expressed concern about the nearly $6,000 price tag for the vehicle.
To alleviate the initial cost burden, I suggested he consider a long-term rental through First Auto Culture (FAC), with whom I collaborate.
Those who have consulted with them know that their specialized knowledge in the import car sector ranks among the best in the country.
FAC has developed expertise not only with Volvo but also with German automotive brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volkswagen, as well as with luxury brands like Porsche, Lamborghini, and Ferrari.
Therefore, I highly recommend FAC to anyone looking to purchase an import car; it’s worth reaching out to them for various information before making a decision.
This post received content creation support from FAC.