Volvo to phase out conventional car engines

by Julia Manchester - 07/05/17 9:43 AM ET

We are committed to electrification, so from 2019 all new Volvo car models will include an electric motor. #VolvoCarsEVs pic.twitter.com/FWGVKyAdgo

— Volvo Cars (@volvocarsglobal) July 5, 2017

Volvo announced Wednesday that it is abandoning conventional car engines, and will make all of its models from 2019 onward electric or hybrid.

The decision makes Volvo the first automaker to phase out conventional engines.

“We are determined to be the first premium car maker to move our entire portfolio vehicles into electrification,” Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson said.

{mosads}The automaker said it will launch five “pure” electric models between 2019 and 2021, in a bid to create environmentally friendly vehicles.

“This is a clear commitment towards reducing our carbon footprint, as well as contributing to a better air quality in our cities,” Samuelsson continued.

“We have stated the bold commitment to bring out 1 million Twin Engine cars or all electric cars till 2025.”

The announcement comes as traditional automakers face fierce competition from upstart companies like Tesla, which specializes in producing electric cars.