Volvo – Page 13 – Automobiles Review

2012 Volvo V40 Hatch with world debut in Geneva

Volvo Car Corporation has just officially revealed its all-new five-door 2012 Volvo V40 Hatchback in Geneva Motorshow today (6th March). First of all the new model has classic V-shaped bonnet which is further enhanced by bolder expressive lines. In addition, the high-gloss grille is low and wide thus creating a sporty look. The sculptured corners add character and direct the airflow to improve the aerodynamics. Daytime Running Lights are set into the lower corners of the front end, sweeping upward if viewed directly from the front. The V40also features wide shoulder line which stretches back from the headlamp with a sharp line to echo the rising beltline. The highlight continues rearward into a very full powerful section that leads into the tail lamps. The car is finished with a dynamically sculpted rear.

The customer of the new model has the option to further personalize it in terms of exterior accessory styling kit. The kit creates an exclusive, sporty aura and improves aerodynamic efficiency. It includes: deflectors, a twin-coloured rear diffuser, a striping kit and enlarged rectangular, chromed twin tail pipes; diamond-cut 18-inch alloy wheels with contrasting grey detailing; roof spoiler can be added separately. Light Emitting Diodes (LED) give the car an individual style and a high-technological look. In details, LED is used in the following areas: front position lights; turn indicators in the door mirrors; rear position lights; rear number plate illumination; high positioned brake light; daytime Running Lights (DRL). The all-new 2012 Volvo V40 is available with a fixed panorama glass roof that stretches from the front windscreen to the backrest of the rear seats. What does the panorama roof is to improve the feeling of spaciousness inside the car. In addition, an electrically controlled fabric curtain is located under the roof and it opens from the rear. This means that the passengers can enjoy the light of the sun while the driver and front passenger are still shaded.

The interior of the Volvo is created with strong accent on ergonomics, comfort and an engaging driving experience. For instance, the wide instrument panel, together with the fluidity of the door design, creates a spacious, “large-car” feeling. For further comfort, electrical heating is available in both the front seats and the outer rear seats. The interior is offered in three main colour themes: Charcoal, Charcoal/Blond, or Espresso/Blond. Leather seats are also available in a new Azure Blue accent colour. Another highlight in the interior is the frameless interior rear-view mirror, inspired by modern smartphone design. Below the armrest is a storage compartment suitable for CDs and other small items. Two cup holders and a 12V power outlet are integrated in the console in front of the armrest. Furthermore, the glove compartment includes space for two soft-drinks cans or bottles that are kept cool with cold air from the Electronic Climate Control system. Furthermore, the interior lighting is created with the goal to give a “theatre lighting” feel. This was achieved thank to the LED lamps, which were used to light up strategic areas. The driver can enjoy a red-to-blue setting that adapts the light to the interior temperature – or choose between another seven mood themes.

The V40 can be equipped with an “extra” floor in the load compartment. It makes the floor flat when the rear seat is folded. In addition, the front passenger seat can be folded forward to create even more space.

The new and highly technological Volvo Sensus infotainment system delivers driver-centric approach, which is enhanced by fully graphic instrument cluster that allows the driver to personalize instrument layout and the information provided. The fully graphic instrument cluster is an active TFT (Thin Film Transistor) crystal display that brings the interaction between car and driver into a new dimension.

The V40 has the most advanced audio unit: class D digital 5x130W amplifier, Dolby Digital in combination with Dolby Pro Logic II Surround, the latest MultEQ from Audyssey Laboratories and 10 loudspeakers.

Another innovation is the mobile application which allows the driver to stay in touch with the parked car via a smart phone. The mobile application is designed to offer the owner an intuitive, easy-to-use relationship with the car from a distance. It includes a number of features: Car locator – the location of the car is shown on a map; there is also a digital compass that points the driver in the right direction; Remote door lock – the status of all doors and windows is displayed – and the driver can lock and unlock the car with a push on the touch screen; Vehicle dashboard – this feature gives the driver access to a wide range of information: fuel level, remaining range to empty tank, average fuel consumption, average speed, odometer reading and trip meter reading; Car check – the mobile app performs a “health” check of the car; displaying information about lights, brake fluid level, coolant level, oil level and oil pressure; Driving journal – detailed data of each trip during the last 40 days can be downloaded and stored; it is also possible to extract the data as an Excel file – a perfect feature for company car owners; Vehicle information – basic car data such as model, registration number and VIN number are stored and can be displayed; Theft notification – if the car alarm is triggered, the driver is alerted via the mobile app.

The chassis of the V40 has been designed to offer the agile, connected experience that creates driving pleasure. The engine CO2 emissions begin at just 94 g/km to the turbocharged T5 petrol engine with 254 hp (187 kW) and acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 6.7 seconds. All engine versions have start-stop and braking energy regeneration, no matter whether they are fitted with a manual or automatic gearbox.

The all-new 2012 Volvo V40 has two different chassis setups: the Dynamic chassis which comes as a standard and the Sport chassis, which is lowered 10 mm compared with the Dynamic chassis. The steering column’s thick tubing and stiff insulator increase torsional rigidity. This also contributes to the enhanced feeling of direct contact with the wheels and the road. Optional on the V40 is the Electrical Power Assist Steering (EPAS) which uses an electrical motor to support the steering rack. The Electrical Power Assist Steering enables integration of safety and driver support functions that involve the steering, such as Lane Keeping Aid and Park Assist Pilot. Furthermore, the Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) system includes several sophisticated features that offer a unique blend of driving pleasure and safety. Advanced Stability Control uses a roll angle sensor that makes it possible to identify any skidding tendency at a very early stage. On the other hand the Engine Drag Control prevents the wheels from locking during engine braking on a slippery surface. Additional innovative feature is the Corner Traction Control that uses torque vectoring so the car corners even more smoothly. The car’s inner driven wheel is braked, causing more power to be transmitted to the outer driven wheel. This allows the driver to corner more tightly while reducing any tendency to understeer.

To go even further into details, the engine range comprises of several diverse engine, The firs one is the five-cylinder 2.5-litre turbocharged T5 engine with power output of 254 hp (187 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The T5 comes with automatic transmission and acceleration from 0-62 mph takes 6.7 seconds. Fuel consumption is 35.8 mpg (EU Combined). The mid-range offer includes two versions of a 1.6-litre GTDi engine: T4 with 180 horsepower (132 kW) and T3 with 150 horsepower (110 kW). The 180 hp engine offers maximum torque of 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) and the 150 horsepower T3 engine offers 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque. Volvo’s engine experts have managed to bring fuel consumption down to 48.7 mpg. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 134 g/km. Furthermore, the T5 version comes with a six-speed automatic gearbox, while the T4 is available in combination with the automatic six-speed Powershift transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. The T3 comes with a manual gearbox. What has to be highlighted here is that the five-cylinder 2.0-litre D4 turbodiesel has been optimized for fuel-efficient driving pleasure. This engine delivers 177 hp (130 kW) and has torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) across a wide rpm range. Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes 8.3 seconds with the automatic gearbox (8.6 sec with manual). Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions is 62.8 mpg (119 g/km) with a manual gearbox and 53.3 mpg (139 g/km) with the automatic (EU Combined). In addition there is the 2.0-litre D3 producing 150 hp (110 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. Both turbodiesels are available with a six-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual gearbox. The star of the low emissions is the D2 version of the Volvo V40, which comes with CO2 emissions as low as 94 g/km – corresponding to fuel consumption of just 78.8 mpg. The 1.6-litre diesel engine has 115 hp and 285 Nm of torque, including 15 Nm overboost. The D2 engine is combined with a six-speed manual gearbox and start/stop function. The 1.6-litre diesel engine can also be mated to the six-speed Powershift gearbox.

Volvo has added several new high-tech features to the safety and support systems such as Pedestrian Airbag Technology, Lane Keeping Aid with haptic auto steering, an ingenious Park Assist Pilot, automatic Road Sign Information, Active High Beam and a Cross Traffic Alert radar system at the rear. The groundbraking here is the Pedestrian Detection technology, which has full auto brake; and the further developed City Safety low-speed collision avoidance system which now operates at speeds up to 31 mph. In addition to all this, the new 2012 Volvo V40 also features world-class crash safety including a safety cage with effective deformation zones and various grades of high-strength steel. Safety belt pre-tensioners are standard in the front and outer rear seats and the front seats are equipped with whiplash protection (WHIPS) to help prevent neck injuries. Both the driver and front seat passenger seat have dual stage airbags. There are also side airbags integrated in the front seat backrests.

At last, the V40 is available with a Personal Car Communicator remote, which enables keyless drive. In addition to this the remote can also transmit and receive signals, thus providing the driver with locking and alarm information.

Source: Volvo

March 6, 2012

Efficient Volvo Revolution

It would seem that Volvo is now turning to efficiency after mastering the art of safety. Preparing for the Geneva Motor Show, the company has innovated (also downsized) a great deal of its technological arsenal. Now, some of the economy figures coming from the Volvo C30, V60 Plug-in hybrid and even the latest Volvo V40 are stunning. The cars will still be safe though.

Within the Volvo fleet, overall four models will soon spew out less than 100 g/km of CO2. This spring the C30 will join the all-new V40 at 94 g/km. The other, D2 versions are the Volvo S40 and Volvo V50. They both have emissions of 99g/km. In addition, there are currently another four models with CO2 emissions below 120 g/km: the Volvo S60 (114 g/km), Volvo V60 (119 g/km), Volvo V70 (119 g/km) and Volvo S80 (119 g/km).

Later on this year Volvo will also start selling the V60 Plug-in hybrid that boasts a fuel economy of 1.9 liters/100km (49 g CO2 /km) when in Hybrid mode. Alternatively, it run on pure electricity for at least 50 km or it can utilize both engine and motor. That means a combination of power that measures up to 215+70 BHP and 440+200 Nm of torque.

“The V60 Plug-in Hybrid boosts our pole position in electrification. None of our competitors can offer customers an equally ingenious car. It elevates hybrid technology to an entirely new level,” says Stefan Jacoby. “It is the perfect choice for the uncompromising customer who wants minimum carbon dioxide emissions and maximum driving pleasure.”
“We have also established a strong partnership with Siemens in developing the next generation of pure electric cars after the Volvo C30 Electric,” continues Stefan Jacoby.

The most important car here however is the all-new V40 – Volvo’s first 5-door proper hatchback. It looks dynamic and from what we hear it is dynamic. With a D2 diesel setup, you only get 3.6 l/100 km and, as we said earlier, 94 g/km of CO2 emissions.

In 2013, Volvo is planning to launch a new 4 cylinder engine range that is based on a platform called VEA (Volvo Environmental Architecture). Both petrol and diesel engines will fall into that category and there will be something for everyone, assure us from Volvo.

“”It is time for the industry to stop counting cylinders. We will develop four-cylinder engines with higher performance than today’s six-cylinder units and lower fuel consumption than the current four-cylinder generation,” says Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development at Volvo Car Corporation.

Source: Volvo

March 2, 2012

Volvo V40 Premiere at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

Good news from Vovlo – the Swedish company that brings us everyday road safety and stability. At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show a new model will be revealed. Called the V40, it will be targeting a niche that goes under the category of “Premium hatchback”. What that basically means is that the V40 is expected to pock some big boy heat underneath a practical and sensible body.

When it comes to engine choice, one can go subtle and sensible. I am talking about Volvo’s first sub-100g/km CO2 diesel engine. Alternatively a turbocharged T5 unit will offer top of the range performance in terms of speed – 254hp good for a sprint from 0 to 60mph in a time of 6.7 seconds. Or anything in between will do just as fine No matter what engine and transmission, the cars will always carry a stop/start module and a brake energy recharging system.

Being Swedish, the V40 can’t roll out of the factory without ticking some safety technology features. The car is constantly aware of pedestrians and will automatically stop if it has to. The second line of pedestrian safety is the pedestrian airbag. A Lane Keeping Aid will keep you from veering in other people’s way while a City Safety low-speed collision detector will prevent bumps and crashes actually that occur within the 31mph range.

“The all-new V40 is the most intelligent and safe Volvo model so far. All its features are designed around the driver, helping him or her stay alert and well informed to avoid collisions and dangerous situations,” says Håkan Abrahamsson, Vehicle Line Director C Cars & V40 Vehicle Programme Manager. He adds: “With this class-leading safety package, including enhanced focus on pedestrian protection, the all-new V40 aims for a full star rating in the new, sharpened 2012 Euro NCAP safety tests.”

The company hopes to sell 90,000 V40 vehicles per year with as much as 85% of them going to the European markets. The debut is set for the Geneva Motor Show next week while sales are expected to start in May.

Source: Volvo

February 28, 2012

Volvo develops smart charging concept for electric cars [VIDEO]

Volvo Car Corporation takes important part in the development of the new concept concerning electric cars. The main focus is on connectivity technology and also includes smart features for charging of electric vehicles. Volvo is one of the partners in the research project ELVIIS which stands for Electric Vehicle Intelligent Infra Structure. This intelligent infra structure develops a smart on-board concept for controlling, measuring and paying for electricity when charging via any outlet. The ELVIIS project is a product of the collaboration of Volvo Car Corporation, Ericsson, the utility company Göteborg Energi and the Viktoria Institute. The goal of this creative project is to bring mobile connectivity to electric cars. More importantly, it aims to identify and remove barriers for using electrical vehicles in daily life.

To get into the details, first the driver chooses to charge the battery pack via any ordinary power outlet. Secondly, the outlet is identified via GPS. Next, the driver pre-sets timing and charging amount on the touch screen or remotely via a smart phone or tablet. With the help of a mobile network, the car communicates with the grid and sets the charging scheme in order to support optimal utilisation of the grid and most favourable energy price. Any unintended interruption of charging process is directly reported to the driver’s mobile phone. In addition to this, the system directs the cost for each charge to the car owner’s personal utility bill.

2012 Volvo C30 Electric Used with the Smart Charging Concept

As an experimental car for the project, the partners used 2012 Volvo C30 Electric. It was equipped with an integrated 7-inch colour touch screen, which made possible the smooth charging concept available at the driver’s fingertip. Five Volvo C30 Electric cars will further be used for testing and evaluating the technology during a year. Moreover, the concept is developed on a generic communication platform with the aim to make the technology globally applicable. At last, important fact is that the ELVIIS technology is fully in line with Volvo Car Corporation’s development of Sensus technology. In this way the driver will undeniably feel totally in control and totally connected.

Source: Volvo

February 24, 2012

Volvo S60 TTA [first picture]

Volvo will switch to TTA – the Swedish Racing Elite League ahead of 2012 and today the first picture is released of the new racing car.

The new S60 TTA is entirely reworked. It comes with complete aerodynamic package, a new ventilated hood and enormous rear wing. The 18” ultralight wheels are wrapped in race slick tires. There is also a performance brake system.

The race car is powered by a V6 petrol and an electric motor with combined power 426PS (313 kW). The power is put on the road through 6-speed sequential transmission.

“We have had a big pressure on us from many curious Volvo enthusiasts as it is a new championship and a new racing car. That is why we chosen to reveal the car now. Our final team colors are going to be shown later, but this is our S60 in TTA racing specification,” said Alexander Murdzevski, Commercial Director of Volvo Motorsport Sweden.

“We can’t go in to that today. We are negotiating with three drivers, but we have other things that are more time pressing. Polestar and TTA are conducting the final tests at the same time as we are working on the hybrid system, producing the carbon fibre body shells and calibrating the aerodynamics for all cars in our wind tunnel,” said Derek Crabb, Director of Volvo Motorsport.

“Motorsport must be cool, exciting and fair. We must fight our meanest competitors in our best selling models. We must be able to win by doing the best job and it should be easy for importers in the country to change racing car when changing model without the need of a heavy factory programme. We are really looking forward to the TTA – Racing Elite League 2012,” finished Anders Gustafsson, Managing Director of Volvo Cars Sweden.

Calendar – TTA Racing Elite League

12/05 – Karlskoga
02/06 – Anderstorp
16/06 – Gothenburg
07/07 – Falkenberg
18/08 – Karlskoga
01/09 – Anderstorp
15/09 – Tierp Arena
29/09 – Gothenburg

Technical specification – Volvo S60 TTA

Length: 470 mm
Width: 1970 mm
Height: 1205 mm
Wheelbase: 2750 mm
Track width: 1660 mm front/1630 mm rear
Suspension: Double wishbone, three-way dampers, etc.
Body: Carbon fibre
Engine: V6 with hybrid system
Drive: RWD
Power: 420 BHP
Gearbox: 6-speed sequential with paddles on steering wheel
Hybrid system: Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS)
Rear wing: 1600 mm width/300 mm depth
Brakes: Front: 4-piston calipers, 370 mm ventilated discs
Rear: 4-piston calipers, 360 mm ventilated discs
Rims: 18″ with centre wheel nut
Tyres: Front: 260/660-18 Rear: 280/660-18

Source: TTA

February 21, 2012

Volvo S60 and Volvo V60 with five star safety ratings at EURO-NCAP and US-NCAP [VIDEO]

Volvo Car Corporation achieved great success in the safety ratings with full star results on both sides of the Atlantic. First, the Volvo V60 received five stars and is named now the best car in the Large Family category in the 2011 Euro-NCAP rating. On the other side of the Atlantic, in the U.S., Volvo S60 achieved an overall five star NHTSA crash test rating as well. Obviously Volvo is keeping their promise to the customers, by offering them the safest cars on the market. This is now confirmed by several independent evaluations on different continents! But the exciting news about the V60 model doesn’t end here – it was also rewarded for the low-speed collision avoidance system City Safety. In addition to this, the model S60 was rewarded in the U.S. with an overall five stars in the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). No other car has received the whole 5-Star Safety Rating from the US-NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) in each of the three crash tests (frontal, side pole and side barrier), and in addition it also received a five-star rollover rating. The S60 is currently the only European luxury car in the U.S. that has these top NHTSA ratings, an IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Top Safety Pick, and is available with all of the active safety technologies recommended by NHTSA.

httpv://youtu.be/Cz2yFt5U3Sk

httpv://youtu.be/2LrLyd_YP8w

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Volvo

February 2, 2012

Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept

At the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Volvo Car Corporation will reveal an innovative petrol plug-in hybrid, which is going to be a unique blend of petrol and electric power. The project is called Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept and it is an electric car, a highly economical hybrid and a powerful high-performance car. All this comes in one package! The great news is that the driver can choose which one of the options they want to drive, with only one touch: there is a button, with which the driver decides how the available power from the combination of the high-performance petrol engine and the electric motor is to be used.

This is undeniably world-class petrol plug-in hybrid technology. Moreover it features a state-of-the-art four-cylinder engine from the upcoming Volvo Environmental Architecture engine family. However we will have to wait a couple of years to see it reaching the American showrooms. As we have already stated, the driver chooses the driving mode via three buttons on the instrument panel. Through these buttons the car “receives” three different modes: Pure, Hybrid or Power. In the first one, the vehicle is powered solely by its electric motor. The range according to the European certification driving cycle NEDC is 28 miles. In the next, Hybrid mode (which by the way is the standard setting whenever the car is started), the petrol engine and electric motor co-operate to provide maximum driving pleasure with minimum environmental impact. According to the European certification driving cycle NEDC, CO₂ emissions are 53 g/km (2.3 l/100 km) – which translates into fuel economy of over 100 mpg. The car has a total operating range of up to 600 miles (960 km). The last mode is a technological optimization which creates the optimum possible power. Here the petrol engine with 280 hp (206 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb.-ft.) is combined with the electric motor with 70 hp (52 kW) and 200 Nm (148 lb.-ft.). This results in car’s acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h 6.1 seconds.

Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept features three Modes

In addition the front wheels of the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept are powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine from the forthcoming VEA (Volvo Environmental Architecture) engine family. This is the engine which produces 280 horsepower (206 kW) and maximum torque of 380 Nm (280 lb.-ft.). Power delivery to the wheels comes via a newly developed eight-speed automatic transmission. Moreover the concept car carries a “T8” badge, which emphasises the combined 350 horsepower of the high-performance four-cylinder engine and the electric motor. The highlight here is that this moves the car into a range previously occupied solely by eight-cylinder engines.

In details, VEA is a modular range of diesel and petrol engines. To be more precise, the petrol versions come with direct injection, minimised internal losses and balance shafts for maximised comfort. Several levels of turbocharging open up for flexibility that encompasses the whole range from high power and torque variants to extremely fuel-efficient derivatives. In addition certain engines will have added performance via hybrid drive or other spearhead technology. The modular format is based on a standard of 500cc (30 cubic inches) per cylinder for optimum thermodynamics. Additionally, it could also be used to develop three-cylinder engines. What is more important here is that VEA offers several advantages. The first thing to be mentioned is that the number of unique parts is reduced. Therefore this promotes manufacturing efficiency, quality assurance and efficiency of new development projects. Secondly, the new powertrains are considerably lighter weight than the present engines with similar performance. Next, the fuel economy is improved by up to 35 percent, again in comparison to the engines with similar performance. And at last, the modularity and compact transverse design are also ideal for future electrification developments.

In addition the engine in the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept has no conventional starter motor or alternator. On its place there is an Integrated Starter motor and Generator (ISG) connected to the crankshaft, which is located between the engine and the transmission. In details, the ISG is capable of delivering the additional 34 kW (45 hp) during acceleration. Moreover it also charges the battery during braking. Furthermore the rear axle of the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept is driven by an electric motor which produces 70 horsepower (52 kW). It is supplied with power from a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed under the floor of the load compartment.

The battery pack can recharged from a regular power outlet, at home or at a parking place. The recharging time varies with the current. If 220V is available, a full charge with 12A takes just 3.5 hours. On the other hand, with the 110V/12A a full charge takes 7.5 hours. In addition it is also possible while recharging the car to heat or cool the passenger compartment. Therefore this also means that more battery power is available to propel the car.

There is no doubt that the car will feature an infotainment system, called Volvo Sensus. It will keep the driver constantly updated on everything that makes the journey simpler, more efficient and more entertaining. For example it can show the best route to a destination depending on whether the driver prioritises low energy consumption, the fastest route or the shortest distance. Moreover it can also show Low Emission Zones where sufficient capacity is needed for running on pure electricity. Next instance is that it provides information about charging stations with access to renewable electricity or locations along the route with access to quick-charging facilities. The driver can also connect to the car via a mobile phone application. Thus way making it possible for the driver to see remotely the battery’s charge level, remaining range, and the location and capacity of the nearest recharging station. Moreover via the app, it is also possible to verify if the charger cable is hooked up and it is also possible to pre-program the car’s interior climate.

The exterior of the Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept is painted in white colour and the 21-inch wheels enhance the muscular appearance. On the other hand the interior includes unique detailing and colours, such as sober dark-blue leather upholstery and inlays of blue-grey wood. The instruments have been tailored to give the driver all the necessary information about petrol and electricity consumption, battery charge level, remaining range and so on.

Moreover the electric four-wheel drive in this exceptional concept is activated by pressing the AWD (All Wheel Drive) button. Instead of the mechanical power transfer of conventional four-wheel drive, the central control unit distributes power between the petrol-driven front wheels and the electrically driven rear axle. This electric four-wheel drive system has been designed to provide better traction when starting and when driving on slippery roads. The car will be designed in order to give the driver the option to choose to save battery power for later in order to drive on pure electricity later in. For instance while driving in an urban green zone or in the heart of a city. When Save is activated, the generator charges and tops up the battery pack if necessary. The goal is to ensure sufficient battery power for about 12 miles (20 km) of driving on electricity.

Source: Volvo

January 5, 2012

Short preview on next weeks North American International Auto Show

Everything about this year’s North American International Auto Show will spin around small vehicles. As the population grows big and hence the customers of vehicles too, there is obviously the tendency of making more downsized automobiles. The North American International Auto Show will take place next week in Detroit. In addition, there will also be a premiere of the automotive world’s most eagerly anticipated new vehicle. The North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week will also be full of luxury and innovation. Another important highlight is that there will be a huge “invasion” of hybrid vehicles as automakers compete to boost fuel economy. The North American International Auto Show 2012 is undeniably where the global automotive community comes together to catch up on the latest news and events.

In short this is what we are going to see just in few days:

Strongly anticipated at this Auto Show is the Acura brand. First, there will be presented a brand new concept called Acura NSX. This is a high-performance hybrid with a V-6 engine mated to a lithium ion battery pack. It will be developed and expected on the market in three years. Speaking about the immediate future there is the 2012 and 2013 Acura ILX Sedan, and also the redesigned 2013 RDX Compact Crossover, which will be powered by a V-6 replacing a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.From Audi we expect to see a refreshed model of a small sporty sedan and a crossover concept. The next brand with a downsized automobile is Buick, which will reveal a new small crossover, called 2013 Buick Encore. From Cadillac we expect the ATS Sedan, which, as promised will be launched in the second half of this year. Chevrolet will present a sporty RS modification of the Sonic Subcompact with a new front image and grille, and a six-speed manual included. In addition we are going to see two concept vehicles from Chevrolet. Dodge will thrill us with the new 2013 Dodge Dart with a lot of powertrain options and Dodge Charger styling cues. The Dart will be at dealerships in the first half of this year. Ford brand will present at the NAIAS its renewed version of 2013 Fusion which now is with smoother lines, has an engines with direct injection and turbochargers, and a hybrid. Honda will redesign its Accord model in the middle of the year and will also show a new Accord Coupe Concept. This will be a great show for the brand Hyundai which will unveil the turbocharged four-cylinder Veloster. Another preview will be made with a 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe which has now a new grille and front fascia and a brand new interior. From Lexus we expect to see the LF-LC Coupe Concept and we also expect to get the answer whether this vehicle will be hybrid or not. Lincoln will appear with a concept of the new generation MKZ Sedan. A lot of success is going to be expected again from the brand Mercedes-Benz. First of all there will be a presentation of the redesigned 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, which is now longer and lighter than the previous model and has a new all-aluminum body. In addition the SL550 will be powered by a new 4.6-liter direct-injection V-8. Furthermore the luxury brand will present two E-Class Hybrids: the E400 Hybrid Sedan and the E300 BlueTec Hybrid. We can’t continue without mentioning the MINI brand which will “show-off” with their 2012 Roadster which will be in dealerships in February. Nissan Pathfinder Concept will be previewed by Nissan which will also show an electric version of the NV200. The luxury of Porsche will be presented by the 911 Carrera and Carrera S models which will go on sale in few months. Scion is a Toyota sub-brand which will show a new model of FR-S Coupe. The smallest of all small cars – Smart, will exhibit a two-seat electric pickup concept called the Smart For-Us. The Toyota brand of course will compete with a plug-in hybrid concept called the NS4. In addition it will also show the production version of the 2012 Prius C Hatchback. Another European car – Volkswagen will preview a hybrid, called 2013 Jetta Hybrid. And at last the Swedish brand Volvo has prepared for us a surprise with a new Hybrid concept will be firstly revealed at the North American International Auto Show.

To sum up, at the NAIAS we expect to see these production vehicles: 2012/2013 Acura ILX sedan, 2013 Acura RDX Crossover, 2013 Buick Encore Crossover, 2013 Cadillac ATS Sedan, 2013 Dodge Dart Compact, 2013 Ford Fusion, 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, 2013 Mercedes E-Class Hybrids, 2012 Mini Roadster, 2012 Toyota Prius C Hatchback; and these Concepts: Acura NSX, Audi crossover, Honda Accord Coupe, Lexus LF-LC Coupe, Lincoln MKZ Sedan, Nissan Pathfinder, Scion FR-S Coupe, Smart For-Us Pickup, Toyota NS4 Hybrid, Volvo hybrid. All this makes us eager to expect what will happen next week! Stay tuned!

January 4, 2012

2012 Volvo V60 Diesel Plug-in Hybrid

Probably the new 2012 Volvo V60 Diesel Plug-in Hybrid is the most technically advanced Volvo model ever! And not only comparing to Volvo, but also it is extremely more advanced compared to other hybrids on the market! If you ask why, well the reasons for this are numerous. Firstly, the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid is the world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid. It is a technical achievement because it is an electric car, hybrid car and muscle-car all rolled into one. And here’s the catch: at the mere touch of a button you can choose which of your three cars you want to drive at any given moment in time! Isn’t that almost magical!

The manufacturers have decided that this car will be offered just production in just one colour, which is Electric Silver. If you plan to order this unique Hybrid, you can do it in the start of 2012, and the first cars will be built in the autumn of that year. The hybrid was firstly unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2011, and since then received a lot of attention, due to its spectacular silver colour, exclusive interior and generous standard equipment!

For example the first 1,000 units of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid are only available in Electric Silver. The vehicle is also distinguished by aero-designed 17-inch wheels, integrated exhaust tailpipes and a number of bodywork features in glossy black, such as the grille and the aerodynamic front spoiler. Moeover, the chromed “Plug-in Hybrid” emblem is found both on the lower part of the tailgate and in a smaller version on the front wings.

To go further into details, the interior of the V60 Plug-in Hybrid is exclusively designed! It features black leather upholstery with contrasting stitching and inlays of blue-grey wood. In addition to make it more distinctive, the interior includes details of a leather-covered steering wheel, specially designed mats and a gear lever knob with integrated indicator. Furthermore in the list of standard equipment have been included features such as speed-dependent power steering, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, parking sensors front and rear, Bluetooth phone link and Volvo on Call. As standard equipment you will also get the High Performance Multimedia DVD audio system with its 4×40 W amplifier, eight loudspeakers and seven-inch screen! And all this in order to have the best drive!

Next to be mentioned is that the V60 Plug-in Hybrid is the first model to be launched with an entirely digital Driver Information Monitor (DIM). Here the conventional analogue gauges have been replaced by a one-piece LED screen with large number of display options. Therefore the driver can choose which information to show via the car’s menu setup. Further innovation is that the driver can communicate with the car via a mobile app, thus giving the owner access to a number of smart functions such as air conditioning, pre-cooling and after-cooling, and a reminder to connect the charge cable if this has not been done by a predetermined time.

Moreover this Volvo is also the first to be “wearing” the D6 badge on its tailgate. The reason is that the combined performance of the five-cylinder turbodiesel and electric motor puts the car firmly within the same horsepower range as the petrol powered T6. In addition the front wheels of the V60 Plug-in Hybrid are powered by a five-cylinder 2.4-litre turbodiesel producing 158 kW (215 hp) and maximum torque is 440 Nm (325 lb-ft). Another detail is that the car has a six-speed automatic transmission. Next o be highlighted about the hybrid is the rear axle, which is powered by an electric motor producing 70 horsepower. Additionally the electric motor is supplied with power from an 11.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed under the floor of the load compartment. To be more precise the sophisticated and exceptionally compact battery pack consists of 10 modules each containing 20 cells. Moreover, an integrated computer monitors the system and compares temperature and charge level in each of the 200 cells. The battery pack also has an integrated water-cooling system driven by the car’s climate unit.

What is very special about the new V60 Plug-in Hybrid is that it offers three driving modes, which makes possible the car to “include” three other cars in itself. This happens when the driver selects the required driving mode via three buttons that give the car three entirely different temperaments: Pure, Hybrid or Power. Through the first mode, the Vehicle is powered solely by its electric motor as much as possible. Note that if the battery pack has been recharged with electricity from renewable sources, its range is up to 50 kilometers! You’ll also go “eco” all the way because of the carbon dioxide emissions which are zero. The electric range varies with terrain, climate and driving style. In the next “Hybrid” mode, which is also the standard setting whenever the car is started, the diesel engine works along with the electric motor and thus way ensuring optimal balance between driving pleasure and environmental footprint. Here CO2 emission (NEDC, mixed driving cycle for certification) is 49g/km, corresponding to diesel consumption of 1.9l/100km. This time the car has a total range of up to 1,000km. The last mode named “Power” is the technological optimization utilized by the manufacturers. The aim was to provide the car with the maximum possible power. Here the diesel engine and electric motor have a total power output of 215+70 horsepower and maximum torque of 440+200Nm. The electric motor’s lightning-quick torque delivery contributes to the car’s acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds.

Additional option in the Hybrid concerns the battery, in which the driver can choose to save its power in order to drive on pure electricity later on. For example this is a good idea when one is in an urban green zone or in the heart of a city. When Save is activated, the on-board system ensures that there is always sufficient charge for driving later in “Pure” mode. And of course if it is necessary, the high-tension generator will charge the battery pack so there is sufficient capacity for driving in “Pure” mode. The goal is ensure there is sufficient battery power for about 20 kilometers of driving on electricity alone.

Great news about the V60 Plug-in Hybrid is that it can be recharged from a regular power outlet (230V/6A, 10A or 16A). This can happen at home or in a parking lot, where the recharging time varies with the amperage. For example a full charge with 10A takes 4.5 hours, or 3.5 hours with 16A, while a 6A charge takes 7.5 hours.

Additionally of you want to feel more comfortable, there is an option which is heating or cooling the passenger compartment while recharging the car. This also means that more battery power is used for actually propelling the car. The pre-conditioning function can also cool the batteries. The perfect temperature for the battery pack is 20-30°C. This means that cooling prior to driving is very important in order to maximize battery charge and thus also range. The V60 Plug-in Hybrid has two heating systems: in electric mode the car uses a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) air heater, and on the other hand it also has a diesel-powered heater.

The vehicle has a special AWD button, which activates the electrical four-wheel drive. Instead of the mechanical power transfer of conventional four-wheel drive, the central control unit distributes power between the diesel-driven front wheels and the electrically-driven rear axle. The aim is to be provided a better grip when starting and when driving on slippery roads. Nevertheless, owing to the electric motor’s lower power, torque to the rear wheels is limited and four-wheel drive is active up to 120 km/h. When four-wheel drive is activated, the diesel engine operates continuously and the generator ensures that the charge level in the battery pack is sufficient to supply the rear axle with the necessary power. The electric four-wheel drive is more economically efficient because it is an option which is being activated by the driver when necessary.

At last in the vehicle is included a two-stage braking system. This is another smart feature of the Volvo Plug-in Hybrid. The reason for this is because when the driver presses the brake pedal, the system starts breaking the rear axle’s electric motor. This braking energy is then used to recharge the car’s battery pack. Hence the mechanical brakes are activated only when the situation requires more braking power than the rear axle can provide.

Source: Volvo

December 13, 2011

2012 VOLVO DRIVe Powershift

Volvo launches automatic DRIVe diesels with the same fuel consumption as manual versions

We have very exciting news form Volvo Car Corporation, which just has announced the latest step in its ‘DRIVe towards Zero’ emissions strategy. This will be made possible with the launch of an automatic gearbox option in four Volvo DRIVe models: the S60 DRIVe, V60 DRIVe, V70 DRIVe and the S80 DRIVe. For the first time, these DRIVe models can be ordered with Volvo’s Powershift dual-clutch automatic gearbox. What needs to be highlighted here is that buyers of these cars won’t compromise on environmental care or economy as the automatic cars deliver exactly the same fuel economy and emissions as the class-leading manual variants.

This only can mean that for the first time in history the fuel consumption in variants with an automatic gearbox is brought down to the same level as in the manual versions.

If you wonder about the fuel consumption (combined cycle) and CO₂ figures, here there are:

Volvo S60 DRIVe Automatic – 65.7mpg (28,7 km/l) & 114g/km
Volvo V60 DRIVe Automatic – 62.8mpg (26,7 km/l) & 119g/km
Volvo V70 DRIVe Automatic – 62.8mpg (26,7 km/l) & 119g/km
Volvo S80 DRIVe Automatic – 62.8mpg (26,7 km/l) & 119g/km

But wait, if you hurry to buy a DRIVe Powershift, you’ll have to do it in early 2012. The production of the car starts mid-February. And if you are curious about the prices they are exactly £25,230 for the S60 DRIVe, £26,405 for the V60 DRIVe, £27,730 for the V70 DRIVe and £26,980 for the S80 DRIVe.

What I like about this DRIVe Powershift is that the low consumption and emission levels result in a number of technological improvements. First of all, there is a reduction of the friction between gearbox components. Second, the engine and gearbox software have been modified. Third, the start/stop system cuts off the diesel engine when the car is still rolling (below 3mph). Next, to create lower energy consumption, all electrical systems have been optimized. And at last, all the S60, V60, V70 and S80 DRIVe are fitted with Volvo’s latest 4 cylinder 8 valve 1.6-litre turbo diesel engine, which delivers low CO₂ while at the same time still delivering a healthy 115hp (84.5 kW) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque.

T go further into DRIVe details, the variants of the vehicle are now available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed Powershift automatic gearbox. Next, there is included a brake energy regeneration, a turbo with variable turbine geometry, common rail fuel supply fitted with Piezo injectors. To enhance it more, they have also added a combined catalytic converter and diesel particulate filter, Start/Stop technology with intelligent climate monitoring, Low rolling resistance tires. And at last the details of the Powershift gearbox are the following: wet double clutch, split input shaft (outer hollow shaft encloses the inner shaft), manual gear selection available via the gear selector and hydraulic control.

With the motto ‘DRIVe Towards Zero’, Volvo Car Corporation aims on improvements on the petrol engines. They are made possible by the optimization of the four-cylinder, 1.6-litre T3 engine (150 hp/110 kW), which is available in the Volvo S60 and V60. Moreover Volvo’s engineering specialists have managed to bring fuel consumption down to 49.0mpg (20.8 km/l) in the S60 (previously 42.8mpg /18,2 km/l). Hence, this corresponds to CO₂ emissions of just 135 g/km, which is a reduction of 17g/km!

The Powershift transmission can now be specified with the T3 engine. The reason to do this is that it will reduce an entry level price of an automatic S60 to £24,270. And if you are asking about the figures for the direct-injected T3 engine combined with automatic Powershift in the S60, they are 39.8mpg (16.9 km/l) and 164 g/km.

The S60 and V60 T3 Powershift will be available to order in early 2012. However, they will be firstly delivered in April.

This DRIVe Powershift maybe will make VOLVO Car Corporation a European leader in CO₂ reduction. The corporation has a leading role among European carmakers in terms of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. This is being confirmed in the annual analysis presented by the European Federation for Transport and Environment (T&E).

Source: Volvo

December 1, 2011

2012 Volvo C70 Inscription

Volvo UK has announced the new special edition C70 Inscription, which is the world’s first four-seater convertible car with a three-piece folding hard top as standard.

2012 Volvo C70 Inscription also comes with painted grille and black 18” wheels with exclusive interior features, including Sovereign Hide upholstery and a leather-covered dashboard.

The new C70 Inscription will be limited to just 2 000 units a year as each starts at £33 855 OTR for the D3 SE Inscription and can be ordered from mid-November with first deliveries in February 2012

“The Inscription is based on our human-centric Designed Around You philosophy, offering those customers who love convertibles and coupés a beautifully detailed version with a lot of kerb appeal,” commented Doug Speck, Senior Vice President Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Car Corporation.

The engine range includes both five-cylinder 2.0 litre diesel engines: the D4 with 177PS (130 kW) and 400 Nm (296 lb-ft) and D3 with 150PS (110 kW) and 350Nm (259 lb-ft). It is available in three colours: Black Stone (Solid), Black Sapphire (Metallic) and Ice White (Solid) and also benefits from exclusive 18” black Midir alloy wheels with black detailing and polished spokes and outer rim.

At the front of the Inscription edition, the high-gloss paint on the grille and the LED Daytime Running Lights are both surrounded by contrasting chrome, giving this C70 a distinctive “face”.

The Volvo C70 Inscription will debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show that opens on November 16^th.

Exclusive interior
The interior also features a distinctive new look that echoes the unique exterior, including:

An exclusive leather-covered dashboard with contrasting stitching
Sovereign Hide upholstery in Off Black or Calcite with the same contrasting stitching as on the dashboard, handbrake lever and carpets
“Inscription” embroidered on the front headrests
Special Inscription carpets and handbrake lever
Steering wheel and gear shift knob with aluminium inlays
Sports pedals with aluminium inlay
Aluminium inlay in the iconic ultra-slim centre stack is standard, Black or Nordic Light Oak as an option

Source: Volvo

November 8, 2011

2012 Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid

Volvo will actually hit the market with the new 2012 V60 Plug-in Hybrid. The vehicle will have carbon dioxide emissions below 50 g/km. The Plug-in Hybrid, which will be launched on the market in 2012, is the result of close cooperation between Volvo Car Corporation and Swedish energy supplier Vattenfall.

What is more, it will bring astonishing performance. V60 Plug-in Hybrid is powered by a 2.4 liter five-cylinder diesel engine and an ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) motor and a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery.

The power of the diesel is 215PS (158 kW) and 440Nm (324 lb-ft) and the electric motor has 70PS (51 kW) and 200Nm (149 lb-ft), which means a total output of 285PS (210 kW) and 640Nm (472 lb-ft), which is not bad for family touring car. The acceleration – 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.

The most staggering about the car is its fuel consumption – 1.9 litres per 100 km (148.7 mpg) with CO2 emissions of 49 g/km. This is achieved on “hybrid mode”, which is default driving setting, but you can also run on pure electricity for up to 50 km (31 miles).

“One important aspect of the project was to retain the Volvo V60’s excellent driving pleasure, high safety standard and luxurious comfort. At the same time, average CO2 emissions and fuel consumption will be halved compared with what is available on the market today,” says Stefan Jacoby.

“We’re taking a step forward towards our “DRIVe Towards Zero” vision, that is to say the hunt for zero emissions. In fact, when the V60 Plug-in Hybrid is run solely on electricity and recharged using renewable energy, we’ve already reached that goal.”, he added.

Source: Volvo

October 17, 2011

Tag: Volvo