Volvo to become first major carmaker to drop traditional engines

Chinese-owned carmaker Volvo has announced all the cars it sells from 2019 onwards will not be powered by an internal combustion engine.

In a landmark move from the manufacturer, its cars will contain either an electric battery or a hybrid engine.

Volvo will release five 100% electric vehicles between 2019 and 2021, transitioning any of its models with traditional engines into hybrid versions.

"This is about the customer," said Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive. "People increasingly demand electrified cars and we want to respond to our customers’ current and future needs. You can now pick and choose whichever electrified Volvo you wish."

Chinese firm Geely Holding Group bought Volvo Cars from Ford Motor Co. in 2010 following disappointing sales and falling profits.

Volvo will release five 100% electric vehicles between 2019 and 2021

The announcement from the firm represents a significant move towards the electrification of vehicles, with many major carmakers also preparing plans to expand their electric offerings.

"This announcement marks the end of the solely combustion engine-powered car," said Mr Samuelsson. "Volvo Cars has stated that it plans to have sold a total of 1m electrified cars by 2025. When we said it we meant it. This is how we are going to do it."

Climate issues and falling oil prices have led to a rethink in the strategies of carmakers, with the innovative Tesla Motors challenging the traditional US 'Big Three' of Ford, General Motors and Fiat Chrysler.