Crossroads Volvo

Volvo XC60 boosts sportiness with R-Design

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 17:12:00 +0000

The Volvo XC60 R-Design makes a clear statement about true driving pleasure, a young, energetic attitude and confident success. A sporty chassis and even more direct steering ensure the driving experience matches the sporty appearance.

The Volvo XC60 is a car that has already carved out a solid market share in the premium sport cross-over segment. With its muscular curves and sharply contoured tail lamps, it attracts attention wherever it goes. The new R-Design option pack that will be presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2009 gives the car an even more purposeful and bold appearance.

"The R-Design model boosts the XC60's already sporty aura and gives the car an even more refined character in terms of both driving experience and design. These are properties that we know appeal to the discerning buyers of this type of cars," says Lennart Stegland, president of Volvo Special Vehicles.

Confident exterior

On the outside it is easy to recognise those typical R-Design attributes: door mirror housings, trim mouldings and décor trim in matte silk metal finish, skid-plates and twin chrome tailpipes. The five-spoke Cratus aluminium wheels are also unique for the R-Design models. In standard form they measure 18 inches but there is also the option of a stunning 20-inch. This dimension is new to the Volvo XC60 and is only available with the R-Design pack.

Another new feature is that the lower section of the car is now colour-matched to the rest of the body on the XC60 R-Design, instead of the matte black execution of the standard model. This creates the impression that the car sits closer to the ground and gives it a more dynamic look - even though ground clearance remains unchanged.

Thrilling driving experience with excellent comfort

The R-Design chassis is stiffer, features stronger damping and has more distinct driving properties - without impacting too much on ride comfort. All passengers can still enjoy a long and pleasant ride on any type of road surface. Further, the fact that the chassis has not been lowered ensures that the XC60 R-Design maintains its ground clearance for off-road capability.

The new, more direct steering gear also significantly contributes to the driving experience. Owing to faster steering response, the driver benefits from a more alert car behaviour and more precise communication with the road surface. This in turn gives the driver the confidence to push the car to its limits and fully enjoy the sporty capabilities of the XC60 R-Design.

Modern and exclusive interior

Inside the car, exclusive metal finish is the dominant theme, with aluminium inserts in the steering wheel, door mouldings and the iconic centre stack. The sports pedals are made of brushed aluminium, with rubber inserts for precise grip, feel and control.

The elegant dark centre stack features a décor with a circular pattern that expands outwards in a dynamic way. This pattern also reoccurs in the oblique striping of the sculpted, duo-tone seats. Further, the seats are available with the choice of two colour combinations, with light beige or dark black as the main theme.

The front seats feature an advanced seat design with two firmness levels in both the backrest and seat cushions, thus providing a body hugging yet comfortable seating position during inspired driving. The sports steering wheel trimmed with perforated leather and featuring the engraved R-Design emblem is a constant reminder to the driver of the car's special character and excellent driving properties.

Volvo XC60 R-Design - An overview

Exterior:

Grille in silk metal finish with R-Design badge
Front fog lamp décor in silk metal finish
Door mirror housings in silk metal finish
Five-spoke 18-inch aluminium wheels - Cratus (20 inch optional)
Sill mouldings in aluminium look
Twin chromed tailpipes
Colour-matched lower body mouldings.
Chrome-plated rear skid-plate with black mesh
Sport chassis
7 body colours to choose between including the R-Design unique colour Passion red

Interior:

Sport seats for great cornering support and comfort
Unique upholstery in smooth leather with a choice of two colour combinations: off-black with soft beige inserts or vice versa
Embossed R-Design emblem in the front backrests.
Watch Dial instrument with blue gauges, unique to the R-Design model
R-Design sports steering wheel trimmed in perforated leather
Sports pedals in aluminium
R-Design centre stack trim with a unique décor pattern
Gear selector trimmed with perforated leather
Off-black sports mats

R-Design a success for Volvo Cars

R-Design was launched in 2007 to satisfy the immense interest among younger car buyers, in particular, who want to equip their cars with sporty, personalised options. With R-Design, they got access to tastefully composed options packages featuring exclusive design details and thrilling sport chassis.

Today R-Design is found across almost the entire Volvo product range in the C30, S40, V50, S80, V70, XC60 and XC90 models.

"R-Design has been a great success for Volvo Cars. This sporty, exclusive sales version has helped us attract new customer groups who would perhaps not otherwise have chosen Volvo. The introduction of the XC60 R-Design shows clearly how strongly we believe in this concept and we have noted considerable pre-launch interest in this product from our markets," says Lennart Stegland, president of Volvo Special

Technology that brakes runaway trailers

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 17:11:00 +0000

Suddenly you note that your trailer has a life of its own. While driving downhill, it starts weaving back and forth by itself and things don't improve when you apply the brakes. You break into a sweat and you're close to panicking.

Your guardian angel is TSA^TM, which stands for Trailer Stability Assist^TM. This is a system that counteracts wobbling and stabilises a trailer that has started weaving back and forth across the road.

The system continuously monitors these wobbling tendencies and compensates by braking one or more of the car's wheels as necessary. If this is not enough, all four wheels are braked and engine power is cut until control is regained.

"Wobbling is a true nightmare for anyone who regularly tows a trailer of some sort. The problem often occurs, for instance, when a towing caravan that has been incorrectly loaded with too much weight at the very front or very rear," explains Per Ola Fuxin, head of vehicle dynamics at Volvo Cars.

Sometimes it can be very difficult to get out of a situation where a trailer has started wobbling, and in the worst case the trailer may even stray onto the wrong side of the road and roll over.

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for this to lead to severe traffic accidents. These accidents usually occur during vacation periods when the roads are filled with towing caravans, trailers and boat trailers.

"It is not easy to single-handedly regain control over a trailer that has started wobbling. The basic rule is to always brake. With TSA, the wheels are braked individually, thus counteracting the trailer's weaving tendencies. This is much more effective than the driver braking all the wheels at the same time. The other advantage of TSA is that it can activate much earlier to bring a situation under control, perhaps even before the driver notices what is about to happen," concludes Per Ola Fuxin.

The Trailer Stability Assist system is active at speeds above 50 km/h. It is a standard feature when buying a Volvo XC60 with a towing hook.

Source: Volvo NA

Volvo Cars and Vattenfall to develop new plug-in hybrid

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:25:00 +0000

A Volvo that can be fuelled with electricity from a standard wall socket will be a reality in 2012. Swedish energy company Vattenfall and the Volvo Car Corporation are launching an industrial joint venture partnership to introduce plug-in hybrids on the market. The ground-breaking technology will considerably lower the environmental impact from traffic. In addition, owning a plug-in hybrid vehicle will be convenient since you can fuel up at home and fuel costs are significantly lower.

In January 2007, the Volvo Car Corporation and Vattenfall launched a joint project with the aim of testing and developing plug-in technology. Now their cooperation is being taken to the next level.

"We are investing in an industrial joint venture to series-produce plug-in hybrid cars in Sweden in 2012, cars that can be powered by both electricity and diesel. This is an important business development for us and our partnership with Vattenfall allows us to take a giant step toward offering our customers cars with an even smaller environmental footprint," says Stephen Odell, President and CEO of the Volvo Car Corporation.

Vattenfall and the Volvo Car Corporation believe that series production of plug-in hybrid cars and the development of infrastructure can generate new jobs and help Sweden maintain its position at the cutting edge of advanced pro-environmental technology.

The car can be charged at home

One of the major benefits of plug-in hybrids is that they can be charged from a regular household wall socket.

"We want to reinforce electricity's importance in society and its key role in solving climate issues. Through this cooperation we hope to be able to speed up the introduction of electric cars. Together we are developing the next-generation technology based on plug-in cars and various charging alternatives," says Lars G Josefsson, President and CEO of Vattenfall.

The development of the cars is being carried out and financed jointly by the two companies. The Volvo Car Corporation will manufacture the cars and Vattenfall will develop charging systems and supply the cars with electricity.

Innovative environmental technology

Electricity is very well-suited as a power source for cars. An electric motor has a high efficiency rating and consumes roughly one-fifth the energy needed to power an engine that runs on fossil fuels. The purchase price of the plug-in hybrids will be higher than that of cars with conventional technology. Batteries are still expensive but with the car running on electricity, its fuel costs will be cut to roughly one-third compared with diesel power.

Vattenfall will offer customers the opportunity to sign an agreement for renewable electricity sourced specifically from windpower or hydropower, as an alternative to the regular mix of electricity sources. Lars G Josefsson sees many benefits from chargeable plug-in hybrids, even in cases where the electricity does not come from renewable energy sources.

"Through electric power, we avoid the emissions from each individual car. Instead of petrol or diesel, the energy is derived from a few large power sources and Vattenfall is working hard to eliminate carbon dioxide emissions from all electricity production. In Sweden, virtually all Vattenfall's electricity production is emission-free," explains Lars G Josefsson.

The plug-in hybrid cars will be driven by a powerful electric motor fuelled by a lithium-ion battery. The battery takes about five hours to charge from a standard wall socket, and the battery is also charged every time the car's brakes are applied.

"Most car journeys are short trips, for instance to and from work. We will be able to offer a product that fulfils this transportation need. In order to cover longer distances as well, the car will also be equipped with one of Volvo's fuel-efficient diesel engines," says Stephen Odell.

Demonstration cars on show this summer

In the summer of 2009, three Volvo V70 demonstration cars will be presented. The demonstration cars will be used to gather information about the wishes and demands that drivers may have on the new technology, to determine their driving habits and to establish how they want to charge their cars. Vattenfall will, among other things, test various concepts for high-speed home charging and also for charging stations in public places, where owners pay to fuel with electricity instead of petrol or diesel. The cars that are planned to go into series production in 2012 will feature somewhat different technology, but the launch of the demonstration vehicles is a step towards series-producing plug-in hybrid cars specifically tailored to market needs.

Volvo Cars launches three new child restraints for children of all ages

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 19:05:00 +0000

Volvo Car Corporation now launches three new child restraints, covering the range of newborn infants to children aged up to about ten. The child restraints have been thoroughly tested and meet Volvo Cars' exceedingly high demands on safety. The three child restraints are comfortable, easy to use and of a smart dark design with the Volvo iron mark on the headrest.
"With our new rearward facing child restraints, children can travel rearward facing far longer than before, something that may save many lives," says Jessika Andréasson, Product Manager at Volvo Cars.

Comfortable infant seat
The infant seat has a convenient handle and is easy to carry to and from the car. The infant seat can be used from birth until about one year (up to 13 kg). It has deep, softly padded side wings, offering high safety in side impacts. The headrest is adjustable in seven heights and the belt adopts automatically to fit the height of the child's shoulders. The child is secured using a five-point safety harness that is adjusted in the centre. The infant seat is fitted using ISOFIX attachments or the regular safety belt.

Convertible child seat rearward facing up to age six
The convertible child seat can be used longer than before, from nine months until the child is about six years old, which is a breakthrough in safety for children in cars. The convertible child seat is comfortable and cosy for the child to sit in as well as sleep in. The side wings are deep and adjustable, offering particularly good protection in side impacts and ensuring that the belt is correctly positioned across the shoulder. Centrally positioned belt adjustment means it is easy to configure for children of different height and sizes. The car's integrated safety belt is used to secure the seat, which features a neatly integrated support leg that is used for fitting in all the car's passenger seats. The child seat can be fitted facing forward when a child weighs at least 15 kg and has outgrown the rearward facing setting. It then converts into a comfortable booster seat with backrest, and both child and seat are secured with the car's integrated safety belt. Volvo Cars recommends that children travel rearward facing until at least the age of three, preferably four years or older.

Clever booster seat with backrest
For children aged between about four and ten, there is a practical booster seat with backrest that ensures correct positioning of the car's safety belt across the child's thighs and shoulder. The booster seat and child are secured facing forward using the car's integrated safety belt. The booster seat is comfortable to sit on and the deep, softly padded side wings provide maximum comfort also when the child is asleep. The headrest is adjustable and grows with the child, offering no less than eleven height settings. The booster seat's width can be adjusted to one of three settings, allowing the child to continue to sit comfortably as he or she grows.

The Volvo dealer has all the expertise
The Volvo branded child restraints are available from authorised Volvo Cars' dealers in Europe and Asia, including China, in the summer of 2009. Anyone transporting children in their cars is welcome in to try out the new child restraints. The dealers have unique expertise in the field of safety and offer thorough instructions on how the child restraints should be fitted and how the children should be properly secured.
"International accident surveys show that one of the most common causes of child injuries or fatalities in traffic is that the child restraint is not properly fitted or the child is not properly secured in the seat," relates Helena Larsson, Design Engineer at Volvo Cars.
The child restraints are supplied with all the necessary fittings such as snap hooks and other attachments to permit easier installation, as well as clear instructions on how each particular child restraint should be fitted.

Tested to meet extremely high demands
Volvo Cars works together with Britax Römer, world-renowned in child safety equipment.
"Our cooperation is a perfect synthesis whereby the manufacturer provides the expertise in the design of attractive and comfortable child seats and we add our know-how on safety for children in cars," explains Jessika Andréasson.
The three child seats feature Volvo's well-known iron mark, symbolising the highest levels of safety and quality.
"We have tested the child seats' moving parts and their mechanical properties. We have also crash tested them to verify that they meet Volvo Cars' high safety demands," says Helena Larsson.
All the fabrics used have been approved according to Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which guarantees that they are free from specified allergy-forming substances. All the covers are removable and can be machine-washed at 40 degrees Celsius.

Children should travel rearward facing for as long as possible
Volvo Cars recommends that children travel rearward facing for as long as possible, at least until the age of three or four, preferably longer. A child's neck is weak and it is still growing, and the head is proportionately larger than that of an adult. When travelling rearward facing, incoming collision forces are spread across the back and head, thus reducing the load on the neck in a frontal impact, which is the most common and often the most dangerous type of collision. For older children, it is important to continue to use a child restraint in the form of a booster seat. The booster seat protects the child's underdeveloped hips and the vulnerable abdomen by positioning the belt correctly across the thighs.
"Children should travel rearward facing for as long as possible," confirms Jessika Andréasson.
"If our new child seats result in more children travelling rearward facing for longer, then we are pleased."

Summary

- Volvo recommends that children travel rearward facing for as long as possible, preferably up to age four or more.

- Volvo Cars launches three new Volvo branded child restraints that meet exceedingly high safety demands.

- The child restraints have been developed by Britax Römer, one of the world's leading manufacturers of child restraints.

- The child restraints are available in three models for children of different ages and sizes:
1. Infant seat, from newborn up to 13 kg, up to about one year old.
2. Convertible child seat, 9-25 kg, from 9 months to about age 6. Can be turned forward facing no earlier than age 3, preferably age 4, and the child must weigh at least 15 kg.
3. Booster seat with backrest, 15-36 kg, from 4 to about 10 years, preferably longer.

- The child restraints have been thoroughly tested by Volvo Cars to guarantee safety and quality.

- Available from Volvo dealers in Europe and Asia, including China, in the summer of 2009.

Volvo Cars and SimBin Join Forces to Release Free Racing Game

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 19:04:00 +0000

Volvo Car Corporation and multiple award winning Swedish game studio, SimBin Development Team, announces that "Volvo - The Game" will be released at the end of May. The game will be free of charge.

The fresh and exiting Volvo S60 Concept headlines the car line up and will be accompanied by several well known Volvo race cars. The players will be able to hammer this variety of Volvo cars around two highly detailed and realistic tracks.

"Volvo - The Game gives us an opportunity to introduce the Volvo S60 Concept to a much wider target group. In an impassioned way and in an unusual environment we are able to expose the interior and exterior design of Volvo cars. As an extra bonus we also have the opportunity to show the players how we have worked in a focused way over the years to enhance and develop our Scandinavian design", says Michael Persson, Director Global Marketing Communication at Volvo Cars.

"To work with such a professional team as SimBin's has been a real pleasure for us", he adds.

"When Volvo Cars asked us if we were able to develop a Volvo racing game for PC, suitable for a wide audience and including the new S60 Concept car, we picked up on the challenge straight away, says Henrik Roos, SimBin Studios CEO. "Especially since it was Volvo Cars located in Sweden that was asking. Two Swedish brands that join forces sounded like a perfect match to us".

As in all games developed by SimBin this game will deliver a great experience in sound and detail with a fun and challenging game as a cherry on the cake. The game comes with three difficulty levels to appeal to a broad audience, from new comer to the experienced gamer.

As an extra feature Volvo - The Game includes leader boards that will be published on Volvo Cars website (www.volvocars.com) with competitions and prices to be won when the game is released.

Please note: Volvo -The Game is set for release May 26.

Source: VolvoNA

Peter Horbury new head of Design at Volvo Car Corporation

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:50:00 +0000

Volvo Car Corporation has today appointed Peter Horbury as new Vice President of Design. He replaces Steve Mattin, who has elected to leave the company.

Effective May 1, Peter Horbury, age 59, will assume responsibility for the division of Product Design within Volvo Cars. He will lead the next stage of the development of Volvo Cars' design language.

Horbury is currently Executive Director of Design, Ford Motor Company, responsible for the design strategy and execution of all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products in North America. Prior to this role, Horbury was the Premier Automotive Group's (PAG) Executive Director of Design, leading the product design strategy for Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo. Horbury has more than two decades of expertise with luxury vehicles and has been ranked as one of the most renowned executives in the car industry.

From 1991 to 2002, Peter was the Design Director of Volvo Car Corporation, leading design teams in Sweden, Spain and California. He was responsible for creating and implementing the stylish new design language in all new models in the 1990s including the XC90 SUV and the award-winning concept cars like the Environmental Concept Car and Safety Concept Car.

"We are very happy to have Peter back on board here at Volvo. He will play an important role in taking our Scandinavian design language to the next level and ensure we continue to develop attractive cars for the premium market" says Stephen Odell, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation.

Born in Alnwick, Northumberland, UK, Horbury received his master's degree in Automotive Design from the Royal College of Art in 1974 and an undergraduate degree from Newcastle-upon-Tyne College of Art and Industrial Design in 1972. He was named Autocar's Designer of the Year in 1998. During his 35-year career, he has been involved in the design of more than 60 cars, trucks, buses and motorcycles.

"I'm extremely pleased to be back in Sweden and the great brand of Volvo. Volvo has a very strong design identity and it will be a privilege to work with the team to develop the Scandinavian design language in future products, and contribute to the turn-around of the company", says Peter Horbury.

"I would also like to wish Steve Mattin every success in his future career and thank him for his dedication to Volvo Cars", concludes Stephen Odell.

Volvo's City Safety named "Genius" innovation of the year by Allianz

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:48:00 +0000

Volvo Car Corporation has received the prestigous award "Genius 2009" by the insurance company Allianz. The Allianz Centre for Technology has been testing cars for traffic safety purposes since 1971. And the "Genius"award was given to Volvo Cars for the development and implementation of the Volvo City Safety system.

"This award is a great honour because it singles out our great commitment to the development of innovative safety systems," said Thomas Viehweg, Managing Director of Volvo Car Germany, at the award ceremony on Wednesday during the Auto Mobil International (AMI) in Leipzig.

"The strong point of this system is that it automatically intervenes when it is to late for the driver to prevent an accident," said Dr Christoph Lauterwasser, managing director of the Allianz Centre for Technology Automotive (AZT).

AZT has been researching vehicle damages and ways to prevent traffic accidents since 1971.

The Allianz "Genius" was awarded for the fifth time this year. The award honours a technological development which has already been implemented and contributes to greater safety in road traffic. Moreover, the innovation must be proven to have a permanent effect in reducing claims frequency and the severity of accidents.

Dr Karl-Walter Gutberlet, executive officer at Allianz Versicherungs AG, praised the great potential of th

e new Volvo safety system during the presentation of the award. "A quarter of the liability claims come from collision accidents, and the majority of them occur within urban areas. This year's award-winner has succeeded in developing an innovative protection system for this accident situation, thereby increasing safety in road traffic," said Dr Gutberlet.

Volvo City Safety offers more safety especially in congested city traffic and is enabled at speeds up to 30 km/h. The system operates with an optical laser which continuously monitors traffic. For example, City Safety recognises a sudden braking by the vehicle in front of the car. If the driver does not react, the system automatically triggers an emergency stop. The system can prevent a collision completely if the relative speed difference between the two vehicles is less than 15 kph. In the range of 15 to 30 kph, the emphasis is on effectively reducing the collision speed, minimising the consequences of the accident.

DRIVe technology in the new Volvo C30 Green Racing for STCC

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:46:00 +0000

Motorsport has long been the drive behind developments in the car industry.
Now Volvo Cars is doing things the other way around. Using technology from the environmentally optimised C30 DRIVe to win the STCC.

For the 2007 Swedish Touring Car Championship (STCC) season the Volvo Car Corporation made the decision to let its race cars run on bioethanol fuel (E85), the first official brand in the world to do so.

In 2008, a completely new race car based on the C30 model was developed. And Volvo Cars' focus on bioethanol and Green Racing in the STCC continues.

"Choosing the Volvo C30 model as the base for a new "green" race car makes sense. Our C30 is the best at showing Volvo Cars' environmental technologies to the market with models like the new diesel-powered C30 1.6 DRIVe Start/Stop with a fuel consumption of 3.9 litres per 100 kilometres. The corresponding CO2 emission is 104 grams per kilometre", says Derek Crabb, director of Motorsport at Volvo Cars.

The Volvo C30 DRIVe plays a significant role in the development of the new race car. Usually car manufacturers use new technical solutions from their race cars to improve the production cars. Volvo Cars it is reversing that process by instead using many technical solutions from the C30 DRIVe model to make the race cars faster.

The race cars' flat under-body panels, diffuser and rear wing have been taken straight from the C30 DRIVe. The aerodynamic solutions that make the diesel-powered C30 more fuel-efficient and therefore more environmentally suitable also proved to make the bio-ethanol C30 green racer faster.

"We have tested the cars quite a lot in Spain this past winter. My team-mate Rustad and I are both very impressed by the fact that the team has been able to take parts straight from the C30 DRIVe production line and install them on the race car, and immediately see huge improvements in speed," says Volvo driver Robert Dahlgren.

The development of the new race car continues. Volvo Cars and its racing team Polestar have set their target - to be a winner in motorsport with modern green technologies.

When	Where
1-2 May	Mantorp
22-23 May	Karlskoga
5-6 June	Göteborg
26-27 June	Knutstorp
10-11 July	Falkenberg
14-15 Aug	Karlskoga
28-29 Aug	Vålerbanen (Norway)
11-12 Sept	Knutstorp
25-26 Sept	Mantorp

Source: VolvoUSA

Heico XC60 Tuning Program Further Details and Photos Released

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:04:00 +0000

On the occasion of the Essen Motor Show (29.11. - 07.12.2008), Volvo tuner HEICO SPORTIV will be presenting the world's first complete program for the new Volvo XC60.

"Our inspiration and challenge focused on further accentuating the dynamic design of the crossover," says HEICO SPORTIV general manager, Holger Hedtke, giving the first indications of what is to be expected of the new exterior, adding: "The design elements dissolve smoothly into one another - the Volvo XC60 should appear as an integrated whole and evoke emotions."

To this end, numerous sketches were prepared and subjected to controversial internal discussion to define an initial underlying design direction... not an easy task, given the need to satisfy the "one shoe fits all" demands of internationally differing style preferences in concert with mounting precision, maximum material quality and statutory guidelines.

The result speaks for itself: the front spoiler of the Volvo XC60 is the first HEICO SPORTIV design element fulfilling the latest pedestrian protection guidelines. To fulfill this EG directive, the vehicle must undergo a crash test during the development process. "Compared to the conventional process, this involves considerably more effort, but it also represents a USP vis-à-vis cheaper suppliers," explains project manager Alexander Lode. "With this, we are fulfilling the high standards that have been expected of us since the start of our cooperation with Volvo."

Original design features such as the characteristic daytime running lamps have been retained and enhanced with striking details such as stylishly adumbrated ventilation slits. "We haven't the slightest intention of changing the fundamental DNA of the Volvo XC60. By contrast, we regard our work as elegant style enhancement," says Holger Hedtke about the HEICO SPORTIV philosophy.

This picks up again at the rear where four oval end pipes of the HEICO SPORTIV stainless steel exhaust system are integrated into the in-house developed rear apron. Alternatively, the dual pipe exhaust system in "left-right optic" can be employed in combination with the original rear apron.

Besides numerous other optical modifications to the interior, the focus for the Volvo XC60 lies on boosting performance. In doing so, one of HEICO SPORTIV's core skills is tuning for the diesel models 2.4D and D5 (to 210 PS from the standard series values 163 PS and 185 PS respectively) and the turbo petrol engine T6 (315 PS instead of 285 PS).

For dynamic performance capability, the Volvo XC60 is lowered 30mm with sports springs. A sports suspension with firmer shock absorber calibration will be available in early 2009.

The light alloy wheel program VOLUTION® for the Volvo XC60 encompasses the variants VOLUTION® X. in 8x19 with 235/55R18 tires (in the colors Silver, Titan and Black Diamond Cut) and the dimension 245/45R20 on the VOLUTION® V. rim in 8.5x20 (in Silver and Titan). The highlight of the VOLUTION® lineup is the exclusive, light weight forged wheel VOLUTION® X. FORGED in 9x20 inches.

The second exhibit by HEICO SPORTIV at the Essen Motor Show is the touring car based on Volvo C30 T5. The "HEICO HS3" is an advancement of the successful parent model "HEICO HS4 ODIN" and is also operated by bioethanol E85. "By winning the class in last 4-h race at Nürburgring we have again demonstrated in 2008, that performance and environmental awareness are compatible", Patrick Brenndörfer, responsible for press and motor sports, explained.

Bioethanol is made of renewable primary products, the CO2-balance of an E85 engine is nearly neutral. "The motor sport engagement is a regular part of our companies philosophy and helps enormously to build up know how - like with alternative fuels", Brenndörfer completed. First serial vehicles with ethanol engine, like the Volvo V70 and S80 2.5FT, will be available soon with HEICO SPORTIV power upgrades.

Source: WorldCarFans Additional Photos: Click

Volvo City Safety named All-Wheel Drive Innovation of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:03:00 +0000

Volvo cars' low speed collision prevention system, City Safety, has been awarded "innovation of the Year" by the German based magazine "Auto Bild Allrad" - Volvo is hereby the first car manufacturer to win the award twice.

The highly-sought honour has been awarded to Volvo Car Corporation as part of the reader vote for the "All-Wheel Drive Car of the Year 2009" conducted by the four wheel drive magazine "Auto Bild Allrad". The new driver support system Volvo City Safety can prevent typical collisions at low speeds or at least significantly reduce the consequences of such an accident. The safety system is available as a world first standard feature in the new Volvo XC60.

"We are very proud of this award because it honours significant technical innovations which influence the entire automotive industry," said Thomas Viehweg, managing director of Volvo Car Germany, at the award ceremony in Leipzig on Thursday.

"The award for us is a confirmation of our commitment to improve automotive safety, an element which is inseparably integrated into the Volvo corporate philosophy. And we are currently expending great effort on the development of additional innovative technologies for passenger protection because we want to maintain our position as world leaders when it comes to safety," emphasised Thomas Viehweg.

The innovation price is awarded by "Auto Bild Allrad" once a year to the most interesting new technological development related to vehicles with all-wheel drive.

The jury members are chosen from the editorial staff of Europe's best-selling journal for all-wheel drive vehicles. By the way, Volvo is the first manufacturer to receive the award for a second time. The first award was given for the roll-over protection system (ROPS) in the Volvo XC90; this system is also a standard feature of the new Volvo XC60.

The award "All-Wheel Drive Innovation of the Year" is already the second major honour for the Volvo safety system in Germany in 2009. Volvo City Safety was honoured at the beginning of the year when it received the "Paul Pietsch Award 2009" from the journal "auto, motor und sport", which has been given since 1989 to especially innovative automobile developments.

Facts about Volvo's City Safety System
Volvo City Safety provides more security, especially in inner city traffic and in typical stop-and-go situations, and is enabled at speeds up to 30 kph. It uses an optical laser for the continuous monitoring of the traffic. For example, City Safety recognises a sudden braking by the vehicle in front of the car. If the driver does not react, the system automatically triggers an emergency stop. If the relative speed between the two vehicles is less than 15 kph, a collision is avoided completely. In the range between 15 kph and 30 kph, the aim is to reduce the collision speed as far as possible, minimising the consequences of the accident. Safety is further enhanced by the interaction of the system, which functions both day and night, with the electronic control elements for the airbags and the adaptive belt force limiters.

Historic win for Ericsson 3 after epic struggle

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:47:00 +0000

Sweden's veteran skipper, Magnus Olsson has done it! Olsson and his Nordic crew have won leg five of the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09, crossing the finishing line in Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro this morning at 1037 GMT today (0737 local time).

At 12,300 nm it is the longest leg in the 36-year history of the event and the first time that 60-year old Olsson, the oldest competitor in this year's race, has taken part as skipper, having competed five times previously as a crew member. His young navigator, Norway's Aksel Magdahl (30), is half the age of Olsson and is competing in this competition for the first time.

Olsson and his crew stepped ashore in the Marina da Gloria to a euphoric and emotional welcome after spending 40 days 05 hours 37 minutes and 57 seconds at sea and the huge smile on this popular skipper's face spoke volumes.

Buoyed by the result, Olsson said: "It's unbelievable. We actually deserve it. We had a fantastic strategy when we needed it. Aksel did a really good job on that. We were so tired but we had a great fighting spirit to the end. We sailed really well, and our performance was 100 per cent all the time. We were on the borderline of destroying the boat, but we managed to find a balance and we managed to keep the boat in one piece."

Aksel Magdahl said, "It was a tough leg and I thought we would struggle more, but to then get to the second scoring gate first was amazing and to be here first is a bonus."

This win is all the more poignant for the fact that the team had already been at sea for three days longer than the rest of the fleet when they arrived in the Marina da Gloria today having had no stopover in Qingdao to rest and unwind.

Olsson and his crew had just over an hour to load 40 days' worth of food and diesel in Qingdao after finally completing leg four, and set sail again on the most demanding and potentially dangerous leg of the course, chasing the rest of the fleet that had already left seven hours previously.

Ericsson 3 had suffered serious structural damage during the gale-ridden leg four from Singapore to China. The team had been forced to suspend racing on 27 January when they were in serious danger of sinking, in order to limp into Taiwan where they made substantial repairs. They resumed racing on 11 February.

After starting leg five, Ericsson 3 was quickly back in contention, moving up to third place on day three, a position they made their own until, on day 19, 4 March, Olsson and his brave young navigator made their winning move.

They ignored historic navigational strategy that declared ‘south was best' and immediately after crossing the first scoring gate at latitude 36 degrees in second place, they tacked northeast away from the fleet. Magdahl believed that the best course was to go north of the high pressure that sat between the fleet and Cape Horn and Olsson put all his faith on Magdahl's shoulders.

Today, Aksel Magdahl said, "The northerly route didn't seem special at the time but when all the rest did not follow us then it suddenly seemed a big decision and very important. It then became the biggest sailing decision of my life, the biggest sailing moment of my life, that is for sure.

Race veteran Bouwe Bekking, skipper of Telefónica Blue, which had won the previous two legs said at the time, "If that route wins them the leg, they will write history, as up until now, in all the legs down south, the south has won."

Simon Fisher, helmsman on Telefónica Blue added, "We will have to see if their plan was genius or madness."

Magdahl explained his strategy around the high pressure at the time: "Eighteen hours before the gate I realised this high did not seem to move so fast anymore. I was also looking at a very interesting small, but powerful low pressure coming in from the northeast, and I thought a bit around whether it was possible to use this, rather than going slow south underneath the high pressure and even risking getting to close to it."

Two days, later, the northern decision paid off and Ericsson 3 took the lead and held on to it tightly for 19 days until today, when the team rewrote the history books.

The next boat to finish will be Torben Grael's Ericsson 4, later today.

Leg Five Finishing Order Rio
1. Ericsson 3: 8 points

Overall Leaderboard (Provisional)
1. Ericsson 4 (Torben Grael/BRA) 56.5 points (RACING)
2. PUMA (Ken Read/USA) 47 points (RACING)
3. Telefónica Blue (Bouwe Bekking/NED) 46.5 points (RACING)
4. Ericsson 3 (Magnus Olsson/SWE) 43.5 (FINISHED)
5. Green Dragon (Ian Walker/GBR) 34.5 (RACING)

6. Telefónica Black 21 (DNS)
7. Delta Lloyd 12 (DNS)
8. Team Russia 10.5 (DNS)

Race reports are issued daily to the media at 1300 GMT by email while the fleet is at sea; however, positions are updated every three hours on www.volvooceanrace.org where you will also find the latest news, feature stories, images and video. Full press information can be read and downloaded from: http://press.volvooceanrace.org

For media information on the Volvo Ocean Race, please contact:

Lizzie (Green) Ward - Senior Race Press Officer (Race HQ - UK)
Tel: +44 1489 554 832 : Mob: +44 7801 185 320
Email: lizzie.ward@VolvoOceanRace.org

3D Rendered: Volvo V70 pickup aka Volvomino

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:41:00 +0000

Vizualtech's Bo Zolland has once again turned his creative magic towards a new Volvo 3D rendering that shows what a possible Holden Ute competitor would look like.

Dubbed the V70 Pickup Concept, the new rendering mixes classic Volvo design traits with an El Camino style body. Up front the brand's S40 face is grafted onto the concept with some minor changes that include aggressive front air intakes and the addition of hood vents. The biggest changes occur out back as the rear features a pickup bed with a flush mounted tailgate, integrated rear exhaust pipes, and iconic Volvo taillights.

As envisioned by Zolland, the rear-wheel drive V70 pickup would be powered by the Volvo XC90's V8 engine that produces 311 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque.

While Bo certainly has a certain fascination for Volvos and pickup ute style vehicles, he has also created a number of interesting renderings which include the Delithium Concept, a Le Mans Dodge Challenger, and an Audi R8 inspired catamaran.

Source: World Car Fans

Volvo XC60 Concept

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 22:52:00 +0000

Volvo Overseas Delivery part 2 of 2

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:01:00 +0000

Volvo Overseas Delivery part 1 of 2

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:59:00 +0000

Volvo Cars, Statements about DRIVe - Swedish

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 17:00:00 +0000

All New Volvo S80L - launch and start of production

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 22:51:00 +0000

S80L is one of the safest premium cars tailor-made for China and will mark the arrival of Volvo in the centre of the Chinese premium car market.

Volvo S80L, all the security needed
Volvo Car's flagship, S80L is one of the safest vehicles in the premium segment in China, providing all the security needed by governmental and business customers. The Volvo S80L redefines the highest criteria for a stretched premium car in China. And the Chinese business elites will find an undisputed top premium vehicle of top safety and luxury.
Based on comprehensive research of the Chinese market, Volvo Cars has designed the all new S80L and considerably upgraded the car in terms of space, quality, premium equipment specifications, drivability and service.

Volvo on Call for emergency
The S80L will also provide a 3-year warranty and 3-year Volvo on Call service for the customer. Customers can use the Volvo on Call service in case of an accident and/or emergency. Volvo Cars is among the few manufacturers who offer Car Accident Aid, while most manufacturers in China only offer assistance on car malfunction. By this kind premium service, Volvo Cars would like the customers to feel the advantage of being a Volvo S80L owner.

80 years of car manufacture experience tailor a car for Chinese
Since entering China, Volvo Cars has performed very well. With the success of the locally built S40 and the accumulation of local production experience, Volvo Cars decided to further develop its localization strategy. S80L is the pinnacle of Volvo's localization effort in China.
"Volvo S80L is an all new model specially tailored for the Chinese market, and also the most luxurious car Volvo has ever made. The stretched wheel base fully meets the discerning demands of Chinese luxury car consumers. Meanwhile, S80L proves Volvo's leadership in terms of safety and design", says Dr. Alexander Klose, CEO of Volvo Cars China.

140mm longer wheel base enlarges rear seat space
The wheel base of S80L is stretched by 140mm, reaching 2,975mm with a full length of 4,991mm. This results in a big rear seat leg space of 1,025mm. The width and height reach 1,861mm and 1,490mm.

Enriched equipment, much more luxury experience
The all new Volvo S80L is equipped with such luxurious specifications as a refrigerator in the rear seat, Premium Sound, rear seat entertainment system, and more deeply padded leather seats, according to the preferences of Chinese luxury car consumers.

The refrigerator is located in the rear seat backrest of the middle back seat. To open the refrigerator, the backrest is folded forward. Two cup holders are located in the backrest.

The design of the S80L fully reflects the intention to provide a limousine-like traveling experience for rear seat passengers. For the same reason, the armrest connected with the suspended centre console has been lengthened, enabling access to such functions as a cigarette lighter, sound control, seat heating, and the front seat adjustment control for the rear seats passengers.

While the comfort of Volvo Cars seats is widely acknowledged, S80L has gone a step further to provide an even more comfortable driving experience, by installing not just high-grade leather but also more luxuriously padded seats. In addition, the S80L 3.0 T6 AWD Prestige is equipped with the Volvo Premium Sound package. A digital amplifier from Alpine and 12 loudspeakers from Dynaudio® of Denmark, give an audio experience of the very highest premium level. The Premium Sound in S80L turns the car into a mobile "Grand Theater" among luxury cars, something even the most discerning audio enthusiast will be enthusiastic about.
In addition, S80L is also equipped with both an advanced Electronic Climate Control system (ECC), and Air Quality System (AQS), which greatly enhance comfort and provide a green and healthy in-car environment for passengers.

Dynamic power
S80L 3.0 T6 AWD is equipped with the classic 3.0-liter six-cylinder in-line turbocharged engine, with a maximum power rating of 210 kilowatts (285 hp) and a maximum output of 400 Nm torque at 1,500rpm. It needs only 7.2 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, so it doesn't seem to be overstated if "extremely fast" is used to describe the speed. The T6 engine uses Twin Scroll technology, inhaling exhaust in two stages and dividing it into two scrolls, which then flow into three cylinders. Twin Scroll Technology uses a more compact and simple turbocharger with quick response, giving equivalent performance to dual turbochargers.

The T6 model is equipped with Volvo's all-wheel drive system which uses an electrically controlled hydraulically-activated clutch to distribute power between the front and rear wheels, to provide the best possible road grip in all situations. The system uses the instant traction system, which can distribute power very quickly between the front and rear wheels, when the car is driven in wet and slippery conditions, or on a soft road surface.

Leading safety technology and premium quality
Volvo's safety technology is unique around the world. At Volvo Cars' Safety Centre in Sweden, the world's most advanced automotive crash testing institution can simulate a wide range of collision scenarios, thereby improving vehicle safety performance in all aspects. The S80L has been tested at Volvo Cars Safety Centre, shipped there from China.

Preventive and protective safety
A main part of Volvo's high-end security technology is implemented in S80L.

Preventive safety: Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Personal Car Communicator (PCC), Intelligent Driver Information System (IDIS) and other leading safety technology.

Protective safety: the body structure is further enhanced by four varying grades of steel. Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS).

The production of the Volvo S80L started in February 2009.

Volvo Presents Seven new DRIVe Models

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:37:00 +0000

Volvo presents seven new cars with the green DRIVe badge - all with best-in-class CO2 levels

At the Geneva motor show, Volvo Cars is presenting no less than seven fuel-efficient DRIVe models. All with best-in-class CO2 emission levels. The extremely low figures for the C30, S40 and V50 have been achieved thanks to an advanced Start/Stop system.
Volvo C30, 3.9 l/100km, 104g CO2/km
Volvo S40, 3.9 l/100km, 104g, CO2/km
Volvo V50, 3.9 l/100km, 104g, CO2/km
Volvo V70, 4.9 l/100km, 129g, CO2/km
Volvo S80, 4.9 l/100km, 129g CO2/km
Volvo XC60, 6.0 l/100km, 159g CO2/km
Volvo XC70, 6.0 l/100km, 159g CO2/km
The DRIVe badge is attached to cars in the Volvo range that have the best environmental performance in their class. All today's DRIVe models are equipped with a conventional diesel engine and manual gearbox optimised for extra-low fuel consumption. These cars are also tailored specifically for low rolling resistance and reduced air drag.

"Our dedicated focus on the DRIVe models in 2009 demonstrates Volvo Cars' ability to quickly respond to customers' increasing demands for products with low fuel consumption and low environmental impact. At the Paris motor show in 2008, we began our broad-based launch of the DRIVe models via the C30, S40 and V50. Now both the market and we are ready to step up to the next stage," says Stephen Odell, President and CEO of Volvo Cars.

"By supplementing the DRIVe range with the larger V70, S80, XC60 and XC70, Volvo also has one of the premium segment's strongest ranges of attractive, fuel-efficient cars offering excellent environmental properties," continues Stephen Odell.

DRIVe at three levels: 120g, 140g, 160g
The Volvo Cars DRIVe range is divided into three categories linked to three emission levels: 120, 140, and 160g CO2/km.

"The categories signal Volvo's highly ambitious CO2 targets in each respective segment. They also match the special CO2 tax brackets and other governmental green-car incentives found in many European countries. Our aim is to continue to further reduce these levels as we develop new, even more environmentally optimised products," explains Stephen Odell.

C30, S40, V50 way below 120g
As of spring 2009, the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 1.6D DRIVe will be offered with an advanced Start/Stop function. This helps lower emissions to just 104g CO2/km for all three models. The C30, S40 and V50 thus also meet the lowest eco-tax levels (105g) in Europe.

The first Volvo models with Start/Stop function
In order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to such an extent, the new DRIVe versions of the C30, S40 and V50 have been equipped with two intelligent new features. One is a Start/Stop function that allows the engine to switch off when the car is at a standstill, for instance while waiting at traffic lights or when stuck in traffic queues.

If the driver puts the gear lever into neutral and releases the clutch while at a standstill, the engine switches off. The next time the driver presses the clutch, the engine starts up again. This technology can reduce fuel consumption and thus carbon dioxide emissions by 4-5% in mixed driving conditions. Start/Stop technology is particularly effective in urban traffic, when the saving may be as much as 8%.

Volvo-unique levels of comfort and quick start-up time
While the car is at a standstill and the engine is switched off, some electronic systems such as the air conditioning step down to standby level in order to save fuel. However, the Start/Stop system continuously monitors the comfort level and automatically reactivates the relevant systems if for instance the temperature increases in the passenger compartment. The system does not set any limits for comfort-enhancing features such as the sound system or other facilities that the customer wants to maintain.

This monitoring system, which is specific to Volvo Cars, and the resultant high comfort level have been made possible owing to an additional small battery that supports the larger battery by providing extra power. Thanks to this extra battery, Volvo's DRIVe models also feature particularly quick and smooth start-up and the audio system, for instance, remains totally unaffected when the starter motor is activated. This distinguishes Volvo Car's solution from that offered by the competition. What is more, the standard larger battery has been upgraded to handle up to 175,000 Start/Stop cycles.

The driver continuously receives feedback about system status via the in-car information display. The Start/Stop function can be engaged and disengaged via a special DRIVe button in the centre console. In the default setting, the function is activated. In the future, this special DRIVe button will also regulate additional systems such as the DRIVe "economy settings" for particularly fuel-efficient performance that are on the way in forthcoming models.

Charges the batteries via kinetic energy
The other new feature in the C30, S40 and V50 DRIVe 1.6D with Start/Stop is what is known as a regenerative charge facility. This is a function that charges the battery as soon as the driver releases the accelerator or brakes while a gear is engaged. By harnessing the car's kinetic energy, the alternator does not have to use diesel fuel as a power source when the battery's charge level dips. Fuel savings of between 2 and 3% can be achieved with this function.

V70 and S80 slip below 140g
For the first time ever, the Volvo V70 and S80 are now also being offered in DRIVe versions. The cars are equipped with the same powertrain - 1.6-litre diesel engine and manual gearbox - as the smaller models but with specially tailored engine software and different ratios in third, fourth and fifth gears.

The optimised powertrain is a major aid in helping Volvo's larger sedans and family cars significantly cut their fuel consumption and CO2 emissions:
V70 down to 4.9 l/100 km and 129g, an improvement of 18% compared with today's two-litre diesel.
S80 down to 4.9 l/100 km and 129g, an improvement of 15% compared with the two-litre diesel.
"We feel that the customer should not have to compromise on either driving properties or comfort despite the smaller engine size. These cars have perfectly adequate performance and in addition a very low environmental impact, actually at a level that none of the competitors in this size class even begin to approach," says Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President, Product Development at Volvo Cars.

Several other factors also contribute to the reduction in fuel consumption, for example the tyres that have been specially designed for low rolling resistance. For the first time the V70 and S80 DRIVe versions are also equipped with an electric power steering pump that delivers exactly the servo assistance the driver requires, in a precise and energy-efficient way. All DRIVe models feature this power steering system.

The V70 has the following special features to reduce air drag:
Covered grille
Lowered chassis (20 mm front, 15 mm rear)
XC60 and XC70 now below 160g
For model year 2010, the powertrain range for the new Volvo XC60 crossover and the XC70 adventure estate will expand with a front-wheel drive DRIVe version powered by the 2.4D engine. CO2 emissions will be 159 g/km and fuel consumption a best-in-class 6.0 l/100 km for both cars.

In addition to front-wheel drive, a number of minor improvements all help deliver the new model's competitive fuel consumption and CO2 figures. Volvo Cars' engine experts have also succeeded in reducing friction and pump losses in the diesel engine and in cutting the pressure drop in the intake and exhaust systems.

Injection pressure has increased with the latest generation of high-pressure pumps and the injection architecture has been refined with the help of a piezo-electric system. The engine now has lower compression, more efficient combustion and the latest generation of engine management software. What is more, the turbocharger has been optimised to deliver high torque from low revs.

The gear ratios have been optimised so the car can be driven economically. For instance, when driving at 100 km/h in top gear, engine revs and thus also fuel consumption are lower with the new powertrain.

One important part of the development brief was to retain the sporty driving properties that are a central part of these cars' attraction.

"More horsepower, higher torque and a sporty chassis setting all help give the front-wheel drive version the right XC60 dynamics. It is the perfect choice for the customer who wants to focus on CO2 emissions without compromising on driving pleasure," says Magnus Jonsson.

"The XC70 DRIVe succeeds in combining high comfort and get-you-there ability with low fuel consumption. Just like the other models, the XC70 DRIVe is optimised for real-life driving conditions. This means it is tested in driving cycles that resemble the situations in which customers actually use their cars. That is why the low figures given in our press material will be very close indeed to the figures customers actually get in the car's trip computer during normal driving out on the road," continues Magnus Jonsson.

Improving the efficiency of the entire product range
Volvo Car's improvements to the environmental properties of its product range are not limited to the DRIVe versions. The fuel-reduction measures of these cars will also benefit the rest of the range. What is more, all the automatic transmissions will be 5 - 7% more efficient in forthcoming versions within the coming two years.

"Our aim is to offer cars that have the lowest CO2 emissions in each size class. DRIVe is the symbol for this process and the cars bearing this badge are those with which we have made most progress. However, the fuel-efficiency focus encompasses all our products and powertrains. By offering a broad-based product portfolio with highly economical and more powerful alternatives, the customer is able to choose his or her own level of environmental imprint," says Magnus Jonsson.

Performance, CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, Volvo DRIVe models year 2010:

Model Engine Power Output CO2 Consumption
C30 Start/Stop 1.6D 109 hp/240 Nm 104g 3.9 l/100 km
S40 Start/Stop 1.6D 109 hp/240 Nm 104g 3.9 l/100 km
V50 Start/Stop 1.6D 109 hp/240 Nm 104g 3.9 l/100 km
V70 1.6D 109 hp/240 Nm 129g 4.9 l/100 km
S80 1.6D 109 hp/240 Nm 129g 4.9 l/100 km
XC60 2.4D 175 hp/420 Nm 159g 6.0 l/100 km
XC70 2.4D 175 hp/420 Nm 159g 6.0 l/100 km

All New Volvo S80L - launch and start of production

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 23:28:00 +0000

On March 12th, Volvo Car Corporation launched the all-new Volvo S80L in Beijing, China. The prices and specifications of the 5 variants were presented. To meet the demand of Chinese consumers, the wheel base of this S80L model is prolonged by 140mm and the car is considerably upgraded. The sale of the all-new model has now started and the production started in February.S80L is one of the safest premium cars tailor-made for China and will mark the arrival of Volvo in the centre of the Chinese premium car market.

Volvo S80L, all the security neededVolvo Car's flagship, S80L is one of the safest vehicles in the premium segment in China, providing all the security needed by governmental and business customers. The Volvo S80L redefines the highest criteria for a stretched premium car in China. And the Chinese business elites will find an undisputed top premium vehicle of top safety and luxury. Based on comprehensive research of the Chinese market, Volvo Cars has designed the all new S80L and considerably upgraded the car in terms of space, quality, premium equipment specifications, drivability and service. Volvo on Call for emergencyThe S80L will also provide a 3-year warranty and 3-year Volvo on Call service for the customer. Customers can use the Volvo on Call service in case of an accident and/or emergency. Volvo Cars is among the few manufacturers who offer Car Accident Aid, while most manufacturers in China only offer assistance on car malfunction. By this kind premium service, Volvo Cars would like the customers to feel the advantage of being a Volvo S80L owner.

80 years of car manufacture experience tailor a car for ChineseSince entering China, Volvo Cars has performed very well. With the success of the locally built S40 and the accumulation of local production experience, Volvo Cars decided to further develop its localization strategy. S80L is the pinnacle of Volvo's localization effort in China."Volvo S80L is an all new model specially tailored for the Chinese market, and also the most luxurious car Volvo has ever made. The stretched wheel base fully meets the discerning demands of Chinese luxury car consumers. Meanwhile, S80L proves Volvo's leadership in terms of safety and design", says Dr. Alexander Klose, CEO of Volvo Cars China.

140mm longer wheel base enlarges rear seat spaceThe wheel base of S80L is stretched by 140mm, reaching 2,975mm with a full length of 4,991mm. This results in a big rear seat leg space of 1,025mm. The width and height reach 1,861mm and 1,490mm.
Enriched equipment, much more luxury experienceThe all new Volvo S80L is equipped with such luxurious specifications as a refrigerator in the rear seat, Premium Sound, rear seat entertainment system, and more deeply padded leather seats, according to the preferences of Chinese luxury car consumers. The refrigerator is located in the rear seat backrest of the middle back seat. To open the refrigerator, the backrest is folded forward. Two cup holders are located in the backrest. The design of the S80L fully reflects the intention to provide a limousine-like traveling experience for rear seat passengers. For the same reason, the armrest connected with the suspended centre console has been lengthened, enabling access to such functions as a cigarette lighter, sound control, seat heating, and the front seat adjustment control for the rear seats passengers. While the comfort of Volvo Cars seats is widely acknowledged, S80L has gone a step further to provide an even more comfortable driving experience, by installing not just high-grade leather but also more luxuriously padded seats. In addition, the S80L 3.0 T6 AWD Prestige is equipped with the Volvo Premium Sound package. A digital amplifier from Alpine and 12 loudspeakers from Dynaudio® of Denmark, give an audio experience of the very highest premium level. The Premium Sound in S80L turns the car into a mobile "Grand Theater" among luxury cars, something even the most discerning audio enthusiast will be enthusiastic about.In addition, S80L is also equipped with both an advanced Electronic Climate Control system (ECC), and Air Quality System (AQS), which greatly enhance comfort and provide a green and healthy in-car environment for passengers.
Dynamic powerS80L 3.0 T6 AWD is equipped with the classic 3.0-liter six-cylinder in-line turbocharged engine, with a maximum power rating of 210 kilowatts (285 hp) and a maximum output of 400 Nm torque at 1,500rpm. It needs only 7.2 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, so it doesn't seem to be overstated if "extremely fast" is used to describe the speed. The T6 engine uses Twin Scroll technology, inhaling exhaust in two stages and dividing it into two scrolls, which then flow into three cylinders. Twin Scroll Technology uses a more compact and simple turbocharger with quick response, giving equivalent performance to dual turbochargers. The T6 model is equipped with Volvo's all-wheel drive system which uses an electrically controlled hydraulically-activated clutch to distribute power between the front and rear wheels, to provide the best possible road grip in all situations. The system uses the instant traction system, which can distribute power very quickly between the front and rear wheels, when the car is driven in wet and slippery conditions, or on a soft road surface.
Leading safety technology and premium qualityVolvo's safety technology is unique around the world. At Volvo Cars' Safety Centre in Sweden, the world's most advanced automotive crash testing institution can simulate a wide range of collision scenarios, thereby improving vehicle safety performance in all aspects. The S80L has been tested at Volvo Cars Safety Centre, shipped there from China.

Preventive and protective safetyA main part of Volvo's high-end security technology is implemented in S80L. Preventive safety: Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Personal Car Communicator (PCC), Intelligent Driver Information System (IDIS) and other leading safety technology. Protective safety: the body structure is further enhanced by four varying grades of steel. Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS). The production of the Volvo S80L started in February 2009.

Source: Volvo Media

Volvo Cars upgraded state-of-the-art emissions laboratory - for reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:26:00 +0000

One of the world's most advanced emission laboratories is Volvo Cars' important tool in the quest for lower fuel consumption and reduced carbon dioxide emissions.

The upgraded emissions laboratory was used when developing all DRIVe models - updated engine mapping and rolling resistance were tested and confirmed.

The emission laboratory is used for development testing in all stages of the vehicle development process, when for instance the engine parameters have been optimised for reducing emissions. The result is verified by performing a test in the emission laboratory, and this process is repeated until optimal results are obtained.

"Many parameters in the vehicle have great impact on CO2 emissions and this requires close attention to many of the systems which we normally do not connect to classic emission testing.

Take brakes for example: Brake drag will have large impact on the variability of the test results. Therefore, we are working closely with the development engineers from many different areas of technology to standardize and optimize all parts in the testing chain", says Alexander Petrofski, responsible for the technical aspects of the laboratory.

Accuracy in all parts of the testing

Using basic data on aerodynamic drag, rolling resistance and parasitic losses on a certain model, the new vehicle data can be tested on another car, but calculated and interpreted for the intended model. With fine-tuned working methods like this, the operation is very efficient and the laboratory can deliver test results in the shortest time possible.

The emissions laboratory has very strict standards to ensure exact measurements - for instance, a test on a car can only be re-run once the temperature of the car has reached the testing temperature of the previous test. Naturally, the temperature in the garage where the cars are stored is also carefully regulated, and kept at 25º Centigrade.

"The amount of effort we put into maintaining quality standards in all aspects of the testing is tremendous. For instance when it comes to calibrations which are performed at pre-defined intervals and supervised by our senior engineers", explains Alexander Petrofski

Exact measurements in diesel emission test facilities

The diesel emissions laboratory has an extremely accurate mass metrology laboratory for measuring particles. The room is built on a 150 ton concrete slab, and the scales are on a heavy marble table, to provide the stability needed. The particle emissions from a modern diesel engine are so low that the weight is comparable to what the fat from a finger print would weigh. This is why there are special requirements for this room - for instance, only one person works there, and he has to wear protective clothing not to affect the scales.

Volvo Cars emission engineers also participate in developing future particle measurement technology, needed for European emission regulation Euro 5b coming to force in 2011, which limits particle count, to complement the current requirement on particle weight or mass. Volvo Cars is working with suppliers to improve and develop the method and instrumentation for measuring particle number. One of the first systems is already being tested in the diesel laboratory.

Cutting-edge facility

Volvo Cars' Emissions Laboratory was a cutting-edge facility when it was built in the early 70's - and over 35 years later, after ½ billion SEK investment during the past 6 years, it is still setting the benchmark in the car industry for its precise measurements of emissions.

"Reducing fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions for our entire model range is naturally a high priority. The improvements needed for getting there encompass both optimisation of drivelines and components on the car itself, for instance regarding engine mapping and rolling resistance. Our upgraded emissions laboratory will be a major tool in this quest," says Magnus Jonsson, Volvo Cars Senior Vice President, Research & Development.

Facts about the upgraded emissions laboratory

Number of test chambers	10, for petrol, E85 and diesel
Test temperatures	-7, +10, +25, +35
Emission components	Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, Nitric dioxide, hydro carbon compounds, particles (number, mass, size), NMOG
Chassis dynamometer	2WD or 4WD up to 200 km/h
Tests performed	Fuel consumption, emissions development, certification, production control, so called CoP, In-use compliance, On-board diagnostics
Personnel	60 engineers, technicians and operators
Testing throughput	Approximately 110 tests per day

The refreshed Volvo S80 - first class exclusiveness and driving properties

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:37:00 +0000

The refreshed Volvo S80 is the result of an intensive dialogue between Volvo Cars' project group and the discerning customers in the premium sedan segment. "We are ready to give the competition a tough match. With the new S80, we're placing the bar at the very highest level when it comes to exclusiveness, quality and driving properties," says Volvo Cars President and CEO Stephen Odell.

The refreshed Volvo S80 is being unveiled for the very first time at the Geneva Motor Show in early March and sales will start in spring 2009.

Building on great success in key markets such as Russia, Volvo Cars' large sedan model takes centre stage with far greater self-assurance than ever, the result of a more distinctive and elegant design, a more exclusive interior and a sharper chassis and upgraded engine range.

"From the outside, the refreshed S80 looks both larger and more elegant. But we've also given it a tougher face. In Germany, they talk about the "böser blick", that is to say the front of the car should look rather menacing when it fills the rear-view mirror of the car in front," explains Volvo Cars Design Director Steve Mattin. He adds:

"However, the refreshed S80 should not just be seen, it has to be experienced. The atmosphere inside is both more comfortable and luxurious, with an increased aura of craftsmanship. We've also made the interior more driver-oriented, not least with a new steering wheel and upgraded instruments. Our chassis and engine experts have made sure the driving experience is as exclusively attractive as the interior is."

Detail precision and quality materials

Steve Mattin and his team have increased the exterior's elegant charisma with a number of details that give the S80 a lower, longer and wider stance.

The front is more distinctive with a new grille featuring the larger iron mark, which is part of the more extrovert DNA of recent Volvo models. There is also new brightwork on the air intakes, lower part of the doors and under the tail lamps.

Inside the car the spotlight is on increased exclusivity and comfort. The soft, sumptuous leather seats with their matching stitching are accompanied by door panels echoing the same trim. The super-slim floating centre stack is upgraded with a silk metal frame that emphasises its original design and enhances its exclusive feel, while simultaneously creating a design link to the recently launched Volvo XC60.

The instruments in the refreshed Volvo S80 get exclusive aluminium dials and Volvo Cars is also launching a new generation of steering wheels. The décor trim with silk matte metal-effect finish on the four-spoke steering wheel is also found in the gear selector, around the starter button.

"It is the combination of a number of carefully thought-out details that together creates the overall aura. Since eight out of ten customers specify leather upholstery, the seats are a good example. Here we have focused on comfort by creating unbeatable seating and side support, accentuated further by the superb quality of the soft Scandinavian hide," says Steve Mattin.

Customers with more individual tastes will be able to select upholstery from the exclusive Executive range, which features classic and sober styles.

All-new five-cylinder diesel engines and new chassis alternatives

The driving experience in the refreshed Volvo S80 has been elevated with an entirely new twin-turbo five-cylinder 2.4-litre turbodiesel. The new D5 engine offers 205 horsepower, 420 Nm of torque over a very wide range of engine revs. Fuel consumption (EU combined) is only 6.2 l/100 km (164g/km) - a record-low figure for a car of this size and performance level. This state-of-the-art engine delivers all the fun without the headache.

The refreshed S80 is also available with an upgraded Euro 4-compliant 2.4-litre diesel engine with 175 horsepower, 420 Nm of torque, fuel consumption (EU Combined) at 5.8 l/100 km and CO₂ emissions of 154 g/km (preliminary figures).

When it comes to chassis choice, Volvo Cars has developed two distinct alternatives - one with the cosseting feeling of supreme comfort and one truly dynamic for the driving pleasure soul. The comfort chassis will be offered as standard and the lowered sport chassis is offered as an option.

Hard to beat offer

The refreshed Volvo S80 enters a segment that is dominated by male customers with considerable interest in cars and with very firm expectations regarding exclusiveness, driving properties and brand image. The choice of car is often based on the individual's personal tastes and preferences, but it also has to serve as a family car.

"Customers in this segment are often very brand-loyal. In order to appear on the radar of customers currently driving competitor cars, we have to offer something that is truly extra. We do this by offering exclusiveness, comfort and driving properties of absolute top level. In combination with world-leading safety, this makes the refreshed S80 very hard to beat. A true lifestyle product," says Stephen Odell and adds:

"I would like to give those who know about the Volvo S80 but who have never driven one, a sound piece of advice. Take a closer look at this car and take it out for a thorough test drive. You'll be amazed at what we have achieved."

Source: VolvoNA

http://www.crossroadsvolvo.com

Try out City Safety at Geneva Motor Show

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:59:00 +0000

The world-first safety system City Safety is a standard feature in the all-new Volvo XC60 - and during the 79th Geneva Motor Show media and visitors will be able to test how City Safety works on a special outdoor test track.

Volvo Car Switzerland chose a special way to launch the all-new Volvo XC60 with City Safety. "Our cars feature great safety concepts, but it is often difficult to let people experience them", says Andreas Block, Director Marketing & Public Affairs Volvo Car Switzerland. "Therefore, we decided to launch a national Volvo XC60 road show to demonstrate City Safety in four major Swiss cities".

The highlight of the Swiss City Safety Road show will take place at Geneva Motor show, starting on the second press day, March 4th, and will be open during the public days for visitors March 5-15th. On a special outdoor test track, visitors and journalists can check out City Safety themselves and drive a new Volvo XC60 against an obstacle - and experience a how City Safety brakes the car, without any assistance from the driver.

The Swiss "Volvo XC60 City Safety Road show" has already been a success in Zurich, Berne and Basel. "People are very impressed by City Safety when they test it", says Eveline Bauert, Communication Manager Volvo Cars Switzerland. "We also get a lot of credit from city authorities - we are, for instance, the first car-maker ever allowed to run test drives inside the big hall of the Zurich central station". Next stop will be at Geneva Motor Show.

The road show has been promoted via a special media teaser ("How can rear-end accidents be avoided?") and through a special website www.city-safety.ch. Website users can submit suggestions and ideas on how to avoid rear-end collisions. The winners will receive prices worth over 10,000 Swiss francs. There are also videos from the test drives available on the site.

The roadshow is organised in cooperation with the insurance company Basler Versicherungen which is cutting insurance premiums for Volvo XC60 owners by 20 percent thanks to the car's advanced safety systems. Another partner is the Schleudertraumaverband Schweiz (the Swiss Whiplash Association) which recently officially recommended the Volvo WHIPS seats and City Safety system nationwide for their capacity to significantly reduce the danger of whiplash injuries.

Source: VolvoNA

http://www.crossroadsvolvo.com

Volvo presents seven new cars with the green DRIVe badge - all with best-in-class CO2 levels

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:48:00 +0000

At the Geneva motor show, Volvo Cars is presenting no less than seven fuel-efficient DRIVe models. All with best-in-class CO₂ emission levels. The extremely low figures for the C30, S40 and V50 have been achieved thanks to an advanced Start/Stop system.

Volvo C30, 3.9 l/100km, 104g CO2/km
Volvo S40, 4.0 l/100km, 107g, CO2/km
Volvo V50, 4.0 l/100km, 107g, CO2/km
Volvo V70, 4.9 l/100km, 129g, CO2/km
Volvo S80, 4.9 l/100km, 129g CO2/km
Volvo XC60, 6.0 l/100km, 159g CO2/km
Volvo XC70, 6.0 l/100km, 159g CO2/km

The DRIVe badge is attached to cars in the Volvo range that have the best environmental performance in their class. All today's DRIVe models are equipped with a conventional diesel engine and manual gearbox optimised for extra-low fuel consumption. These cars are also tailored specifically for low rolling resistance and reduced air drag.

"Our dedicated focus on the DRIVe models in 2009 demonstrates Volvo Cars' ability to quickly respond to customers' increasing demands for products with low fuel consumption and low environmental impact. At the Paris motor show in 2008, we began our broad-based launch of the DRIVe models via the C30, S40 and V50. Now both the market and we are ready to step up to the next stage," says Stephen Odell, President and CEO of Volvo Cars.

"By supplementing the DRIVe range with the larger V70, S80, XC60 and XC70, Volvo also has one of the premium segment's strongest ranges of attractive, fuel-efficient cars offering excellent environmental properties," continues Stephen Odell.

DRIVe at three levels: 120g, 140g, 160g

The Volvo Cars DRIVe range is divided into three categories linked to three emission levels: 120, 140, and 160g CO₂/km.

"The categories signal Volvo's highly ambitious CO₂ targets in each respective segment. They also match the special CO₂ tax brackets and other governmental green-car incentives found in many European countries. Our aim is to continue to further reduce these levels as we develop new, even more environmentally optimised products," explains Stephen Odell.

C30, S40, V50 way below 120g

As of spring 2009, the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 1.6D DRIVe will be offered with an advanced Start/Stop function. This helps lower emissions to just 104g CO₂/km for the Volvo C30 and 107g CO₂/km for the S40 and the V50 family estate model. The C30 thus also meets the lowest eco-tax levels (105g) in Europe.

The first Volvo models with Start/Stop function

In order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to such an extent, the new DRIVe versions of the C30, S40 and V50 have been equipped with two intelligent new features. One is a Start/Stop function that allows the engine to switch off when the car is at a standstill, for instance while waiting at traffic lights or when stuck in traffic queues.

If the driver puts the gear lever into neutral and releases the clutch while at a standstill, the engine switches off. The next time the driver presses the clutch, the engine starts up again. This technology can reduce fuel consumption and thus carbon dioxide emissions by 4-5% in mixed driving conditions. Start/Stop technology is particularly effective in urban traffic, when the saving may be as much as 8%.

Volvo-unique levels of comfort and quick start-up time

While the car is at a standstill and the engine is switched off, some electronic systems such as the air conditioning step down to standby level in order to save fuel. However, the Start/Stop system continuously monitors the comfort level and automatically reactivates the relevant systems if for instance the temperature increases in the passenger compartment. The system does not set any limits for comfort-enhancing features such as the sound system or other facilities that the customer wants to maintain.

This monitoring system, which is specific to Volvo Cars, and the resultant high comfort level have been made possible owing to an additional small battery that supports the larger battery by providing extra power. Thanks to this extra battery, Volvo's DRIVe models also feature particularly quick and smooth start-up and the audio system, for instance, remains totally unaffected when the starter motor is activated. This distinguishes Volvo Car's solution from that offered by the competition. What is more, the standard larger battery has been upgraded to handle up to 175,000 Start/Stop cycles.

The driver continuously receives feedback about system status via the in-car information display. The Start/Stop function can be engaged and disengaged via a special DRIVe button in the centre console. In the default setting, the function is activated. In the future, this special DRIVe button will also regulate additional systems such as the DRIVe "economy settings" for particularly fuel-efficient performance that are on the way in forthcoming models.

Charges the batteries via kinetic energy

The other new feature in the C30, S40 and V50 DRIVe 1.6D with Start/Stop is what is known as a regenerative charge facility. This is a function that charges the battery as soon as the driver releases the accelerator or brakes while a gear is engaged. By harnessing the car's kinetic energy, the alternator does not have to use diesel fuel as a power source when the battery's charge level dips. Fuel savings of between 2 and 3% can be achieved with this function.

V70 and S80 slip below 140g

For the first time ever, the Volvo V70 and S80 are now also being offered in DRIVe versions. The cars are equipped with the same powertrain - 1.6-litre diesel engine and manual gearbox - as the smaller models but with specially tailored engine software and different ratios in third, fourth and fifth gears.

The optimised powertrain is a major aid in helping Volvo's larger sedans and family cars significantly cut their fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions:

V70 down to 4.9 l/100 km and 129g, an improvement of 18% compared with today's two-litre diesel.
S80 down to 4.9 l/100 km and 129g, an improvement of 15% compared with the two-litre diesel.

"We feel that the customer should not have to compromise on either driving properties or comfort despite the smaller engine size. These cars have perfectly adequate performance and in addition a very low environmental impact, actually at a level that none of the competitors in this size class even begin to approach," says Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President, Product Development at Volvo Cars.

Several other factors also contribute to the reduction in fuel consumption, for example the tyres that have been specially designed for low rolling resistance. For the first time the V70 and S80 DRIVe versions are also equipped with an electric power steering pump that delivers exactly the servo assistance the driver requires, in a precise and energy-efficient way. All DRIVe models feature this power steering system.

The V70 has the following special features to reduce air drag:

Covered grille
Lowered chassis (20 mm front, 15 mm rear)

XC60 and XC70 now below 160g

For model year 2010, the powertrain range for the new Volvo XC60 crossover and the XC70 adventure estate will expand with a front-wheel drive DRIVe version powered by the 2.4D engine. CO₂ emissions will be 159 g/km and fuel consumption a best-in-class 6.0 l/100 km for both cars.

In addition to front-wheel drive, a number of minor improvements all help deliver the new model's competitive fuel consumption and CO₂ figures. Volvo Cars' engine experts have also succeeded in reducing friction and pump losses in the diesel engine and in cutting the pressure drop in the intake and exhaust systems.

Injection pressure has increased with the latest generation of high-pressure pumps and the injection architecture has been refined with the help of a piezo-electric system. The engine now has lower compression, more efficient combustion and the latest generation of engine management software. What is more, the turbocharger has been optimised to deliver high torque from low revs.

The gear ratios have been optimised so the car can be driven economically. For instance, when driving at 100 km/h in top gear, engine revs and thus also fuel consumption are lower with the new powertrain.

One important part of the development brief was to retain the sporty driving properties that are a central part of these cars' attraction.

"More horsepower, higher torque and a sporty chassis setting all help give the front-wheel drive version the right XC60 dynamics. It is the perfect choice for the customer who wants to focus on CO₂ emissions without compromising on driving pleasure," says Magnus Jonsson.

"The XC70 DRIVe succeeds in combining high comfort and get-you-there ability with low fuel consumption. Just like the other models, the XC70 DRIVe is optimised for real-life driving conditions. This means it is tested in driving cycles that resemble the situations in which customers actually use their cars. That is why the low figures given in our press material will be very close indeed to the figures customers actually get in the car's trip computer during normal driving out on the road," continues Magnus Jonsson.

Improving the efficiency of the entire product range

Volvo Car's improvements to the environmental properties of its product range are not limited to the DRIVe versions. The fuel-reduction measures of these cars will also benefit the rest of the range. What is more, all the automatic transmissions will be 5 - 7% more efficient in forthcoming versions within the coming two years.

"Our aim is to offer cars that have the lowest CO₂ emissions in each size class. DRIVe is the symbol for this process and the cars bearing this badge are those with which we have made most progress. However, the fuel-efficiency focus encompasses all our products and powertrains. By offering a broad-based product portfolio with highly economical and more powerful alternatives, the customer is able to choose his or her own level of environmental imprint," says Magnus Jonsson.

Performance, CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption, Volvo DRIVe models year 2010:

Model	Engine	Power Output	CO₂	Consumption
C30 Start/Stop	1.6D	109 hp/240 Nm	104g	3.9 l/100 km
S40 Start/Stop	1.6D	109 hp/240 Nm	107g	4.0 l/100 km
V50 Start/Stop	1.6D	109 hp/240 Nm	107g	4.0 l/100 km
V70	1.6D	109 hp/240 Nm	129g	4.9 l/100 km
S80	1.6D	109 hp/240 Nm	129g	4.9 l/100 km
XC60	2.4D	175 hp/420 Nm	159g	6.0 l/100 km
XC70	2.4D	175 hp/420 Nm	159g	6.0 l/100 km

Source: Volvo Cars North America

www.crossroadsvolvo.com

Two new five-cylinder diesels from Volvo: More power and less fuel consumption

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 15:13:00 +0000

Volvo Cars sharpens the company's diesel offer. Two entirely new five-cylinder, 2.4-litre turbo diesels give the customers the attractive possibility to combine more power with class-leading fuel consumption and CO2-emissions:

· The high-performance, twin-turbo D5 with 205 hp and 420 Nm of torque.

· The medium-performance, single-turbo 2.4D with 175 hp and 420 Nm of torque.

Both engines are available in the Volvo S80, Volvo V70, Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC70 from the spring of 2009.

"This is yet another step in our determination to reduce the combustion engine's environmental impact, at the same time as we give customers truly quiet and sophisticated engines with excellent performance," says Derek Crabb, Vice President, Powertrain Engineering at Volvo Cars.

The high-performance D5-engine has already been introduced in the Volvo S80 and it will be available in the Volvo V70, Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC70 from the spring of 2009.

The performance and driveability requirements in the high-performance D5-engine have been solved with twin turbochargers of different sizes that operate in sequence to provide added power within a broader rev range. The result is alert response and rapid acceleration at all speeds, with very smooth power delivery between the turbo ranges.

This twin-turbo technology in the D5 has also made it possible to introduce higher levels of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) across a wider rev range than before. This harnesses the two turbochargers' different properties optimally to deliver a combination of high performance and low fuel consumption that is bidding for the title of best in class.

The advanced fuel injection technology uses piezoelectric fuel injectors. This provides precise distribution of the atomised fuel in the combustion chamber, resulting in efficient combustion and low emissions. At the same time, this technology and the efficient combustion create a pleasant sound bearing a closer resemblance to the elegant note of a six-cylinder petrol engine.

Together, the high-tech solutions contribute to the excellent fuel consumption (EU Combined) figures:

· 6.2 litres/100 km (164 g/km) in the S80.

· 6.4 litres/100 km (169 g/km) in the V70.

· 7.0 litres/100 km (185 g/km) in the XC60 (preliminary).

· 7.0 litres/100 km (185 g/km) in the XC70 (preliminary).

The single-turbo 2.4D - focus on fuel economy

The single-turbo 2.4D will be available in the Volvo S80 and Volvo V70 as well as in front-wheel-drive versions of the Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC70 from the spring of 2009.

The engine has been optimised with low fuel consumption in sharp focus. The injection system features another type of piezoelectric fuel injectors than in the D5, aiming to cut fuel consumption through extremely rapid and precise injection sequences. The high injection pressure results in particularly effective combustion.

To promote the drivability, the single turbocharger has been optimised to produce high torque from low revs.

The upgraded single-turbo 2.4D-engine gives a fuel consumption (EU Combined)of:

· 5.8 litres/100 km (154 g/km) in the S80 (preliminary).

· 5.9 litres/100 km (157 g/km) in the V70 (preliminary).

· 6.0 litres/100 km (159 g/km) in the XC60.

· 6.0 litres/100 km (159 g/km) in the XC70.

Mutual technology

The two new diesel engines share a number of technology solutions. The engines have lower compression, more efficient combustion and the latest generation of engine management. Volvo Cars' powertrain experts have reduced internal friction and pump losses in the diesel engines. The pressure drop in the intake and exhaust system has also been significantly reduced.

The new turbo diesels have also been equipped with ceramic glow plugs, a high-tech solution that delivers excellent starting properties owing to very quick warming up. They reach a temperature of 1,000 degrees Celsius in just two seconds, making the engine easy to start and cutting emissions. In certain driving conditions, such as at really low revs, the ceramic glow-plugs can also be used to increase the temperature in the cylinders, further improving combustion efficiency.

Source: Volvo USA

http://www.crossroadsvolvo.com