Showing posts with label Volvo. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Volvo. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Volvo C70, 2010

 
 
  •  Volvo C70, 2010

The Volvo C70 is in actual fact two attractive cars in one. It is as much an elegant coupe as it is a sporty convertible. With the same gentle, clean lines in both versions. Above all, however, the Volvo C70 is a car to enjoy. For people who reward themselves with the best in life.

Modernised, self-assured front
With its new front, the Volvo C70 reveals traces of the Volvo S60 Concept Car that was unveiled in early 2009. Thereby the Volvo C70 is upgraded to relate more closely to the design language of the larger cars in the Volvo model range

Bodywork details such as the front wings have also been redesigned, contributing to the decidedly altered appearance. The nose is more wedge-shaped and has been given added three-dimensional depth by moving some elements of the front both longitudinally and vertically. The new headlamps and the décor around the foglamps, for instance, have been angled offset up and to the rear, at the same time as the detailing of the lower grille has been enhanced.

The Volvo C70
The new Volvo C70 launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September 2009 has the same smart three-piece steel roof, practical seating for four adults and world-leading convertible safety as before. With an updated design and elevated premium feel, the Volvo C70 also delivers an "I want" aura of absolute world class.

The Volvo C70 is in actual fact two attractive cars in one. It is as much an elegant coupe as it is a sporty convertible. With the same gentle, clean lines in both versions. Above all, however, the Volvo C70 is a car to enjoy. For people who reward themselves with the best in life.

Modernised, self-assured front
With its new front, the Volvo C70 reveals traces of the Volvo S60 Concept Car that was unveiled in early 2009. Thereby the Volvo C70 is upgraded to relate more closely to the design language of the larger cars in the Volvo model range

Bodywork details such as the front wings have also been redesigned, contributing to the decidedly altered appearance. The nose is more wedge-shaped and has been given added three-dimensional depth by moving some elements of the front both longitudinally and vertically. The new headlamps and the décor around the foglamps, for instance, have been angled offset up and to the rear, at the same time as the detailing of the lower grille has been enhanced.

Monday, October 8, 2012

Volvo XC60, 2009

 
 
 
 
  •  Volvo XC60, 2009

The new Volvo XC60 is the first vehicle in a new generation of the contemporary cross-over concept. It is a combination of a traditional city vehicle and an XC vehicle aimed for young, professional urban people with an active life. Volvo XC60 is a sporty and dynamic car with tasteful exterior and interior design and versatile functionality.

Exterior
Volvo XC60 has a characteristic XC design language, with a blend of passenger- and coupe-like car shapes - including a touch of well-known Volvo design elements. The formula-drive stance, with big wheels "in the corners", lifted visual platform and a very high waistline - all contribute to a sturdy and robust impression. The V-shape design, i.e. front spoiler, LED lamps, bonnet, goes all the way to the rear.

The rear design is characterised by the tail lamps with micro optics and LED technique. The lamps, distributing light in a special way, give a characteristic "Volvo" design impression.

Integrated roof rails
The roof rails provide a solid and tight impression. They are available in two versions - Charcoal (standard) or Silk-Metal - and built into the car at the factory.

Body
The advanced front structure consists of deformation zones of different grades of steel, each one with a certain role in a collision. The structure is designed to help providing increased protection in a frontal collision.

Side structures of different grades of steel and a number of tubes and members are all designed to "move" the body to the side, help reducing the risk of passenger compartment intrusion. Volvo's Side Impact Protection System helps absorbing the forces in order to maintain an adequate space for the passengers.

Lower cross member
The front structure has been supplemented by a lower cross member that adapts the front to the height of a normal-sized passenger car. This enables the other car's deformation zones to function as they were intended to provide protection for the car's occupants.

News - panoramic roof
The panoramic roof is a new detail that replaces the traditional sunroof. It is divided into two sections and gives the interior an airy and fresh feeling. The roof glass is tinted and laminated.

Laminated glass contributes to increased security
Laminated glass can be chosen in all of the car's windows to make break-in considerably more difficult.

Roll Stability Control (RSC) and Roll-Over Protection System (ROPS)
Roll Stability Control is an active function that intervenes in situations when the car is exposed to forces that could cause it to roll over. The function helps stabilise the car and reduces the risk of rolling over in an accident.

If a rollover accident should occur the Roll-Over Protection System helps to protect the passengers. An inclination sensor included in the Roll Stability Control continuously reads the cars roll rate. If threshold values are exceeded, the system takes action by for example deploying the inflatable Curtains. The Roll-Over Protection System is a complex system that includes the body's safety structure as well as the SRS components.

Interior
The interior is driver oriented and designed to create a dynamic feel. The lines on panels and surfaces connect different interior panels with each other to create a harmonious style with "loops." Thick and thin lines contribute to the XC profile.

The characteristic and floating centre console gives a dynamic and sporty impression. The centre console is slightly angled towards the driver to enhance the driver dynamics. The visual "X" in the seats and backrests enhances the dynamic appearance.

Practical loading area
The loading area has a lockable load floor covering two storage areas, one for personal items and another for soiled or wet items. The load cover extends over the entire loading area. The rear door prevents the floor hatch from being opened when the car is closed and locked.

Three interior levels
The following interior levels are available for the Volvo XC60:
  • Full textile - a combination of two different textiles and available in Off-Black or Soft Beige.
  • T-Tec and textile - available in Anthracite Black/Off-Black or Soft Beige/Mocca.
  • Leather in Off-Black or Soft Beige - offered with the accent colours Lemon Green/Off-Black or Soft Beige/Espresso Brown.

Two wood inlays
Two different wood inlays are available: Classic Wood and Nordic Light Oak. The standard base theme is called Charcoal, and another inlay theme is called Brushed Aluminium.

Power tailgate
The optional power tailgate can be opened automatically in three ways - via the remote control, by a button in the light panel or by opening the tailgate with the handle. The automatic opening feature is very convenient if you approach the car loaded down with shopping bags.

Three-section rear seat
The three-split (40/20/40) rear seat and backrest offer two separate seats with an armrest in the middle, or three seats with safety belts for each occupant. The seat cushions are fixed and the backrest(s) can be individually folded.

Six-cylinder turbo engine
The 3-litre, six-cylinder turbo engine is transversely mounted and very compact. The engine delivers 285 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, from low up to high revs. The turbo-six provides a high level of driving pleasure, with quick throttle response at all speeds, ideal for quick overtaking, for example.

Five-cylinder turbo-diesel in two variants
The Volvo XC60 is available with two five-cylinder turbo-diesel engines, producing 163 hp and 340 Nm or 185 hp and 400 Nm. The diesel engines combine low fuel consumption with sporty driving characteristics. The driveability is very good even with a heavy load or when driving with a trailer. Both engines are equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to help reduce the amount of harmful particles in the exhaust gases.

Six-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic
The compact, six-speed automatic transmission has been engineered to handle the high torques developed by engines such as the T6 and the powerful D5 diesel engine. Geartronic enables the automatic transmission to be used as a manual gearbox as well.

Six-speed manual transmission
The manual six-speed gearbox provides good tractive power in each gear in order to combine rapid acceleration with high top speed.

All Wheel Drive (AWD) for enhanced stability
All Wheel Drive is an electronically controlled system that distributes engine power between the front and rear wheels quickly and automatically, depending on which wheel pair (front or rear wheels) has the best grip at the moment. The system helps enhance stability and reduces under/over steering, and contributes to increased driver control and a comfortable ride.

Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) for stabilising car and trailer
Trailer Stability Assist is intended for stabilising the car and trailer. The system detects if the trailer starts "snaking"; a phenomenon that may occur at certain speeds depending on the mass of the trailer and how it is loaded. If Trailer Stability Assist senses snaking tendencies, it brakes the car's individual wheels to counteract the oscillation. Trailer Stability Assist is activated at speeds between 60 and 160 kph.

Further developed Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC)

Volvo's Dynamic Stability and Traction Control system has been further developed and registers the car's roll rate continuously, giving the opportunity to detect slowly built up skids at an early stage. Generally, the system helps stabilise the car in evasive manoeuvres, particularly when the car is exposed to high lateral forces.

Hill Descent Control (HDC) for steep inclines
Hill Descent Control controls the car's speed automatically when driving down steep inclines. The Hill Descent Control function makes it possible for the driver to focus completely on driving when descending steep hills. The driver can control the speed with the brake pedal or the accelerator when Hill Descent Control is activated.

Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept (FOUR-C)
Volvo's FOUR-C function monitor's the chassis' movements and makes it possible to choose a chassis setting that suits a certain driving style. The driver can choose between three settings: Comfort, Sport and Advanced.

Speed-dependent power steering contributes to easier steering
The Volvo XC60 is equipped with speed dependent and progressive power steering to make steering easier at low speeds. One of three steering force levels can be selected to suit different drivers and driving conditions.

News - City Safety
City Safety is a new function, sensing if vehicles ahead are moving slower or standing still. By measuring the car's speed and distance to the vehicle ahead, City Safety is able to calculate the braking force needed when approaching the other vehicle. In a situation where the calculated braking force needed reaches a certain level, and the driver has not reacted, the City Safety function senses that a collision is imminent.

The function is a standard feature that is active if the car's speed is below 30 km/h (19 mph). In situations where the difference in speed between two vehicles is 15 km/h (9 mph) or less, a collision can be avoided completely. In a potential collision situation in which the difference in speed between the vehicles is between 15-30 km/h (9-19 mph), City Safety alone cannot prevent a collision. However, the consequences of the impending collision can be mitigated considerably because the system will intervene to reduce speed when the collision occurs.

News - Pre-Prepared Restraints
Pre-Prepared Restraints - a new function - is able to prepare/adapt the belts and airbags to an expected crash load in low or mildly severe frontal collisions before the actual impact happens. This means that the belts and airbags get some 'extra' time to prepare before the impact and help making the safety belts and airbags even more effective. Remember to always use safety belts when driving or travelling in a car. Pre-Prepared Restraints is a standard feature in Volvo XC60.

Collision Warning with Autobrake alerts the driver
Collision Warning with Autobrake alerts the driver if the distance to a vehicle ahead suddenly decreases. The function contributes in giving the driver a fair chance to avoid a collision. The system's braking function prepares for heavy braking and brakes the car automatically (with up to 50% of the maximum braking power) if the driver has not reacted to the warning signal. Collision Warning with Autobrake is an optional feature.

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Volvo S60 Concept, 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  •  Volvo S60 Concept, 2009

The Scandinavian inspiration
The front of the Volvo S60 Concept sports the enlarged iron mark in the trapezoidal grille. The two lamps that flank the grill emphasise the vertical stance of the front and highlight the bonnet's V-shape. The angled headlamps flow up into the strongly sculptured bonnet and combined with the lower air intake's reverse trapezoidal shape, this gives the concept car a very expressive "face".

Viewed from the side, the concept car's slim coupe roofline and window graphics are accompanied by an entirely new shoulder line, forming a gentle double wave, stretching from the headlamps all the way to the rear. Both the seven-spoke 20-inch wheels and the tread of the low-profile tyres have been specially designed, while the bronze-painted brake callipers match the "Warm Liquid Copper" livery.

The unique rear parallelogram doors offer a spectacular show when they are opened and closed. Door opening is initiated by pressing a button and the movement starts off in the traditional way. In the next phase, the forward section swings out away from the car's body and the door glides parallel with the side of the car until it reaches its end position by the rear wheel. Since the car does not have a B-pillar between the front and rear seats, this door configuration offers exceptionally generous entry and exit access.

The transparent attachment of the door mirrors illuminates and becomes part of the indicator function. The panorama roof is another ingredient that contributes to the concept car's airy Scandinavian aura.

The Viking longboats in the headlamps
In each of the headlamps, the lights create a silhouette of two miniature Viking longboats sailing side by side, one for main beam and one for dipped beam. When driving in the dark, the light is reflected from the concealed, upward-facing High Performance LED bulbs, projected ahead by the ships' filled sails.
A closer look reveals more detail. The compact cooling system for the LED bulbs has protruding cooling blocks made out of aluminum, semi-visible under the ships' hulls. This design creates the illusion of shimmering glass panels that float above a dark and mysterious Scandinavian sea.

The Inspiration from the racing track
The tail lamps, which follow the curve of the rear shoulders, are as advanced as the headlamps. When switched off, the lamp panels show no trace of the traditional red or yellow. But when activated, the position marker lights, brake lights and turn indicators come on in their correct colours with the help of LED bulbs. The solid glass panel is sectioned into horizontal "slices" that create the visual impression of a three-dimensional architect drawing when the lights come on.
At the rear there is also a retractable diffuser that adjusts with vehicle speed to give better aerodynamic properties.

New technology detects pedestrians in the danger zone
The Volvo S60 Concept also presents a safety innovation that can detect a pedestrian who steps out into the path of the car and the car's full braking power is automatically activated if the driver does not respond to the danger. The technology, Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and pedestrian detection, will be introduced in the all-new Volvo S60.

Elevates the brand's image
The Volvo S60 Concept was created to pave the way for Volvo Cars in one of the automotive world's most focused segments, characterised by razor-sharp competition.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Volvo V50, 2008

 
 
 
  • Volvo V50, 2008

A number of distinctive design cues take the new Volvo S40 a visual step closer to the new S-range look as first shown on the all-new Volvo S80. At the same time, the V50 approaches the new V-range and the all-new V70 without compromising on its original compact and sporty attributes.

Starting with the new S40, the source of the inspiration can be seen clearly when the compact sedan is viewed from the front.

The new colour-coordinated soft nose creates a broader, lower stance thanks to a new grille with a larger Volvo iron mark, new headlamps and a lower air intake that sweeps across the entire front unlike the current model's three-part design.

Sportier V50 grille
The new black egg-crate grille with its larger Volvo iron mark emphasises a sporty language. The new headlamps and the three sculpted lower air intakes are other details that give the new colour-coordinated soft-nose V50 front an increased impression of solidity.

Slimmer tail lamps
The lower part of the tail lamp panel on both the S40 and V50 is 30 millimetres higher than before and the lamps themselves have an entirely new graphic layout. The brake lights are now of LED type and the position marker lamps emphasise the car's shoulders.
The new bumper features integrated reflectors in the lower corners and the lower, broader design language is supplemented with the more horizontal lines of the exhaust tailpipe.

Freeing up storage space
When refining the interior, the design team transformed itself into something of a liberation movement for storage space.

The team concentrated its efforts on two areas: the door sides and the centre stack.
The entire lower part of the front door inside panels was redesigned. The audio system loudspeakers were reshaped to free up space for a new, larger storage compartment with space for an A4 format book, an upright soft drinks can or a water bottle lying down.

As an added bonus, space was also freed up for an extra Dynaudio loudspeaker (only for Premium Sound), which adds even more spice to the audio experience.

Larger and more intelligent centre console
The already iconic super-slim centre console is available in additional decor versions such as the Nordic Light Oak real wood inlay, and the theme now flows smoothly with similar elegant soft curvature surfaces all the way to the rear seat.
The storage space between the seats has also been refined with the help of Scandinavian design tradition's most renowned hallmark - smart functionality.
The handbrake has a more compact design, which in turn has freed space for more generous storage capacity.

Sliding cover and flexible armrest
The sliding cover over the larger storage compartments, in which there are also two holders that provide secure support for large and small cups, is complemented by an improved flexible armrest for the driver. This also has a built-in feature that the design team playfully call the "hamburger table".

New upholstery and green highlight colour
New design details in the instrument panel and air vents also contribute to the interior refinement in the new S40 and V50.

The upholstery range has been expanded both at base level and for the more exclusive options, for instance with a new, finer grained leather. At base level there is a green 'accent' colour fabric with the poetic name of Spring Green.

Friday, July 13, 2012

Volvo S40, 2008

 
 
  •  Volvo S40, 2008

When the current generation of the Volvo S40 and V50 were introduced in 2003, Volvo Cars had its sights firmly set on younger buyers with high demands on sportiness and premium feel.

The new Volvo S40 and new Volvo V50 are making a joint entry onto the market with considerably refined design. A range of new features further sharpens their competitive edge in the hunt for discerning young car buyers.
 
Fresh figures from both the US and Europe show that the company's focus on younger target groups has made a significant contribution to sales.

Buyers under 35 years up by more than 20 percent

It's the figures for the USA that are most noteworthy:
  • The proportion of S40 buyers under 35 years of age has increased from 23 percent to 45 percent.
  • The proportion of singles has risen by 10 percent, from 30 to 40 percent.
  • The overall average age of S40 customers has dropped by ten years from 50 to 40.
In Europe, the proportion of V50 buyers whose main alternative was a premium car such as the large German makes is now touching 47 percent - compared with 24 percent for the previous Volvo V40.

The proportion of customers younger than 44 years has risen by ten percent from 45 to 55 percent. And in Europe too, it is the more emotional reasons for purchase that are gaining ground among V50 buyers, more of whom are families with children than in the case of the S40.

Improved storage
Both design and technical refinements in the new Volvo S40 and V50 focused on improving the models' already highly appreciated characteristics and on tackling weaknesses identified by customers, for instance when it comes to interior storage space.

Sharper driveline range
The driving characteristics are already among the most renowned strengths of the two models.

One new feature is that the T5 engine gets a performance hike of 10 horsepower, giving an output of 230 hp. There are also five other petrol engine versions available, plus a bio-ethanol Flexifuel variant:

    * 1.6 100 hp
    * 1.8 125 hp
    * 1.8F 125 hp (Flexifuel)
    * 2.0 145 hp
    * 2.4 140 hp
    * 2.4i 170 hp

Diesel engines, which account for 55 percent of S40 and V50 sales in Europe and 25 percent in total, are available in three versions:

    * 1.6D 109 hp
    * 2.0D 136 hp
    * D5 180 hp

One change here is that during the second half of 2007 the D5 engine will also be available with a manual gearbox, offering the driver no less than 400 Nm of torque compared with the automatic transmission's 350 Nm. This engine is one of the first to meet the expected Euro 5 European exhaust emission levels.

The E85-powered (85 percent ethanol, 15 percent petrol) Flexifuel variant producing 125 hp is becoming increasingly competitive. The Volvo S40 and V50 Flexifuel are sold in nine European countries and in 2007 account for 8 percent of these models' total sales.

Now with active headlights
When it comes to safety, the new S40 and V50 come with several new features:

Optional Active Bi-Xenon headlamps that swivel the light beam in the direction of the road when the driver turns the steering wheel.

The car's hazard warning flashers are automatically activated when the airbags are deployed, a feature that helps attract the attention of other motorists in the event of a single-vehicle accident in the dark, for instance.

The brake lights now have the EBL (Emergency Brake Lights) function, which causes them to flash rapidly when the driver stamps hard on the brake pedal, so as to effectively alert traffic behind the car.

Audio system of world class
The new Volvo S40 and V50 can be specified with an audio system of absolute world class.

The most advanced of the three systems, Premium Sound, has a digital amplifier from Alpine, Dolby Pro Logic II Surround and loudspeakers from Dynaudio of Denmark.

In the High Performance and Premium Sound systems it is possible to play CD discs with music in MP3 or WMA format. This means that the CD changer can store several hundred music tracks and give the owner access to his or her own private home music library even while on the move.

What is more, all the audio systems now come with an extra socket (AUX) for connection of other equipment such as a portable MP3 player. USB and iPod connectors are available as accessories.

One-third of total Volvo Cars sales
The sales target for the new Volvo S40 is 75,000 cars per year.
The USA is the largest single market with one-third of total sales, while in 2007 China will advance to second place owing to local production of about 8,000 Volvo S40s. The United Kingdom, Spain, Germany and Sweden are the largest S40 markets in Europe.

The target for the new Volvo V50 is 70,000 cars annually. Here 85 percent of sales are in Europe, with Germany, Sweden, Britain, Italy and the Netherlands being the largest individual markets.

"The Volvo S40 and V50 not only account for one-third of our total sales volume in 2007; they also play a vital role in reinforcing the Volvo brand. The new models sharpen their competitiveness in every important area and I am convinced that together with the new C30, they will attract even more new and younger buyers," says Fredrik Arp.

Friday, July 6, 2012

Volvo Caresto V8 Speedster Concept, 2007

 
 
 
 
  •  Volvo Caresto V8 Speedster Concept, 2007

First shown at last year's SEMA show, the Caresto Hot Rod was so well received Volvo Cars brought it back for the 2007 show as a compliment to the Caresto C70 Convertible. Completely hand assembled from aluminum and carbon fiber, the Caresto Hot Rod features many Volvo parts, including the mid-engine 311-horsepower V8 engine. Craftsmanship is what sets the Caresto Hot Rod apart from many other custom cars. Precision fit and finish is evidenced on every body panel and stitch of premium leather.
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