Volvo – Page 8 – Automobiles Review

Game on: Volvo FH Truck Racing Against Koenigsegg One:1

Setting a massive eight-tonne Volvo FH against one of the fastest cars around the world, precisely Koenigsegg One:1, may sound a bit like a joke. Except that it is not. The question though is why? If it is for the spectacular part, no doubt it is going to be spectacular. Not every day you can see Hulk against The Flash! Nevertheless, the main reason for this “rivalry” is to test, once again, the I-Shift Dual Clutch gearbox fitted to the Volvo truck, and see if the FH can cover one lap of the Knutstorp race faster than the Koenigsegg can cover two laps.

Five red lights. They come on. They go off. And start! Now this is going to be one hell of a race!

The two vehicles set off and as they do so, Koenigsegg One:1 is already cutting the air with its high speed. The truck, on the other hand, is left to bite the dust behind. We can admit that looking at the video, we can see the Volvo truck struggling just a little bit… or more. Still, the performance makes the hair on your neck stand up. You nearly won, Volvo FH.

To clarify some of the vehicles’ characteristics, Volvo FH tractor unit delivers 540 horsepower and is equipped, as already pointed out, with I-Shift Dual Clutch. The functionality of its speed limiter has been previously removed in order to give the truck a slightly better chance against its opponent. Thanks to this, Volvo FH reached a speed of almost 130 km/h (80 mph) on the track race. Despite the slight helpful push, it is all about fair play after all, the outcome is still unpredictable.

The Koenigsegg One:1, on the other hand, is noted as one of the world’s mega-hyper-super-fast cars. Its name One:1 derives from the power 1360 PS and weight 360 kg. The exact ratio of 1:1 is a combination that no other sports car manufacturer has managed to achieve ever before. The engine of this Koenigsegg produces more than 1000 Nm of torque between 3000 and 7500 rpm and is capable of 0-100 km / h (0-62 mph) in less than 2 seconds.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlFiKo64kQw

Source: Volvo Trucks

November 13, 2014

2015 Volvo XC90 Unveils Improved Multi-filter that Enhances Interior Air Quality

CleanZone is a clever and unique approach developed by Volvo Cars which is designed to control the quality of the interior air and to provide a better driving environment through groundbreaking solutions for improved well-being and health. Drivers are enabled to breathe more easily because even the tiniest and microscopic dust particles will now be kept out.

The multi-filter which is created specifically for the SPA platform, will first appear in the all-new stylish Volvo XC90 in the beginning of 2015. The filter includes a larger design that intercepts more particulates and pollen. There is also a layer of active charcoal that serves the purpose to clean off every contaminants which can impact and harm the health of drivers.

As a result, every car that is equipped with the new enhanced multi-filter, shows reduced amount of “fine dust” particles which are smaller than 0,4 μm. Comparing this to a car without the filter, there is about 70% difference in terms of “fine dust” particles-presence. This is considered as a very pivotal improvement as studies have pointed out that dust particles smaller than 10 µm can cause a number of health problems, including lung infections and difficulties when it comes to breathing.

Nevertheless, the filter is just one of the elements that comprise the Volvo’s state-of-the-art Interior Air Quality System (IAQS). Another feature is a sensor that can scan the incoming air for noxious substances. If the level of harmful substances is too high (for example when driving through a tunnel), the car’s air intakes will automatically close. The multi-filter and sensor, then, prevent a number of harmful and irritating pollutants, from entering the vehicle. Such harmful material includes:

• Nitrogen oxides
• Hydrocarbons
• Ground-level ozone
• Gases and unpleasant odors

Source: Volvo

November 12, 2014

Volvo Ocean Race XC60 Wows Miami

Volvo Ocean Race Editions were shown at first at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. The range of exclusive vehicles included the V40 and V40 Cross Country, V60, XC60, V70 and XC70 Editions. The fleet Ocean Racers is intended for customers who want more dynamic look and handling. Now North America is set to see the birth of the limited edition Volvo Ocean Race XC60 at the Miami International Auto Show. The event starts today and will last until 16^th of September.

Precisely, this special edition pays homage to the courageous men and women racing across the oceans. This is highlighted with the special design elements. First thing that grabs the eye is the distinctive “Ocean Blue II” exterior color. Next are the unique to the model blonde leather interior with orange stitching.

The exclusive 18” wheels just perfectly combine with the T6 Drive-E FWD or the T6 AWD engine by which this car can be driven. Other Volvo Ocean Race XC60 features include an inscribed “Volvo Ocean Race” tread plate as well as exterior emblem on front fenders and deco inlay. Orange stitching is featured on door panels, floor mats and luggage compartment.

2014-2015 Volvo Ocean Race has already started in Alicante, Spain more than a month ago. The finish will happen in Gothenburg, Sweden, in June next year. In the race are participating 66 of world’s top sailors, who will race 38,739 nautical miles around the world. To make it clearer: this number is actually almost twice the circumference of the Earth.

Volvo Ocean Race XC60 Limited Edition has a starting price of $42,100 USD.

Source: Volvo

November 7, 2014

Volvo Cars Unveils the New V60 Cross Country

Take a deep breath of relief, Volvo fans. The long-awaited Cross Country is finally here and it comes with quite some attitude indeed! The third true Cross Country vehicle will be unveiled at the 2014 Los Angeles Motor Show this month.

Interestingly enough, the Cross Country brand has a prolonged legacy that dates back to 1997 when the V70 Cross Country was first introduced. Ever since, Volvo’s primary idea circles around its intention to bring to life vehicles with absolute all-road capability and peculiar styling.

It could be said that the new V60 crossover implements a combination of the features of the smaller V40 Cross Country and the regular V60’s characteristics. It certainly makes an impression. Mixing Volvo’s heritage and love of nature and adventure, the V60 Cross Country takes the best of both worlds and conveys it with sufficient class. The vehicle is sporty, comfortable enough and gives a driving experience to remember. It perfectly fits the lifestyles of people who are adventurous, active, dynamic, exploratory and are not afraid of diving into an experience of wildness, dirt and muddy waters.

The individualist style includes increased ground clearance, skid plates front and rear, side scuff plates and fender extenders. The capable sporty nature of the V60 Cross Country demonstrates a dominating, beefy presence that strikes everyone’s attention.

The first V60 Cross Country cars in the US and Canada will get Volvo’s impressive five-cylinder petrol engine with All-Wheel Drive coupled to an automatic transmission delivering a highly around 23 mpg and 250 hp (186 kW). Drive-E four-cylinder diesel and petrol engines will serve as the base for the Front-Wheel Drive version. They will be available in the V60 Cross Country in early 2015 worldwide. The proven five-cylinder D4 powertrain will be used for the All-Wheel Drive model.

Source: Volvo

November 5, 2014

Heico Sportive Teases Custom Volvo XC90

Heico Sportiv Volvo XC90 is a project that we eagerly await. The tuning company has just released the first teaser image of the upcoming customized car and the news that the specialists have already begun developing a comprehensive accessories and equipment features for this Scandinavian premium SUV. Other details haven’t been disclosed yet, but we expect this to happen in the coming months.

As we can see from the image, the car is covered in poison green color paint scheme and we also wonder whether there will be any changes in this direction. In addition, the rendering also suggests that there will be a lowered suspension and of course new alloy wheels.

The second generation XC90 was unveiled prior the Paris Motor Show but celebrated its official public unveil there. The market launch of the car is scheduled for May next year. This model is the first Volvo which is built on company’s Scalable Product Architecture and in addition it is powered by four-cylinder Drive-E engines.

Volvo is offering a range of petrol and diesel engines. In particular, the gasoline units are the T5, which produces 254 hp (187 kW) & 350 Nm (258 lb-ft), and the T6 turbo- and supercharged engine, which is rated at 320 hp (235 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). The diesel powerplants are also two: the D4 with 190 hp (140 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) as well as the twin-turbo D6 producing 255 hp (189 kW) and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft).

Volvo has also announced that there will also be a powerful plug-in hybrid version dubbed T8. It offers a combined output of 400 hp (294 kW) and generates 640 Nm (472 lb-ft) from a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter and an 80 hp electric motor. The electric motor alone offers a range of 40 km (25 miles). Other attractive features in the new XC90 are the T-shaped LED daytime running lights and the 22-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the SUV can offer space for up to seven people.

Source: Heico Sportiv

October 22, 2014

Volvo’s New Drive-E Powertrain Concept Delivers more than 450 Horsepower

Volvo’s Drive-E Powertrain Concept is delivering unique mix of performance and efficiency. Precisely, this unit is a triple boost 2-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine which is potent to produce no less than 450 hp. More interestingly, the 450 hp (331 kW) High Performance Drive-E is based on a set of technologies not usually found in a four cylinder engine. The powerplant utilizes two parallel turbochargers that draw force from electrically powered turbo-compressor.

The compressed air from this unit is used to spool up the two parallel turbochargers. Furthermore, the fuel is fed by a dual fuel pump working at 250 bar pressure. This power density, along with the triple boost installation and unique fuel system, enables a very dynamic drivability.

The engine has already attracted the attention and involvement of Volvo Cars suppliers AVL, Denso and Volvo Polestar Racing at an early stage. They have allowed the theories and technologies that they are using for racing to be infused in the development process.

This combination of technologies will end up in a unique engine with its high power yet quick response. What is more, its compact size enhances weight distribution between the front and rear axle and lowers the center of gravity. This had a major effect on the handling of the car using the engine.

In addition, the compact powertrains deliver more space and have less weight, thus entirely modifying the structure of the car. The freed space and saved kilograms can be used for electrification and even additional emissions reduction.

Source: Volvo

October 8, 2014

Volvo lists new details, pricing of XC90

Volvo has shared new details on the upcoming all-new 2015 XC90 model and from what we know the vehicle will be offered in a new trim level structure that includes three trim levels – Momentum, Inscription and R-Design. Momentum provides a well-appointed vehicle designed to meet and exceed the needs of most customers. Inscription is crafted specifically for customers that hold an additional appreciation for craftsmanship, and desire increased comfort with exclusive features. R-Design rounds out the group and delivers a sporty and dynamic aura. In addition to that both the XC90 T6 AWD Momentum and the XC90 T6 AWD Inscription models will feature an extensive list of standard elements that will revolutionize the luxury SUV segment.

Here’s what you can expect from both these models:

Interior – less clutter with intuitive interactions

Revolutionary HMI user experience with 9” Sensus touch screen center display in portrait orientation with natural speech voice control;
Best-in-class cargo capacity at 85.7 cu.ft.;
7 passenger seating with spacious, class-leading 3^rd row legroom;

Exterior – Scandinavian luxury and design

Panoramic sunroof;
19” 10-Spoke alloy wheels (Momentum);
LED Fog Lamp with Corner Illumination;

Safety – advancements from the industry’s leader

Collision avoidance with Volvo’s renowned latest City Safety package, including pedestrian and cyclist detection (day and night);
Road edge detection;
Lane departure warning;
Roll Stability Control with inflatable curtain airbags;
Next-generation Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS);
Volvo On Call, including remote lock/unlock, send to car and vehicle tracking, with smartphone app;

Versatility – effortless and uncomplicated functionality

Keyless entry and drive;
Rear park assist camera;
Hands-free, power tailgate;

In addition to the above, the T6 Inscription carries a set of distinctive standard features including:

LED headlights with active bending lights, auto high-beam and the iconic Thor’s hammer daytime running lights;
Front grille in silver matte;
Fine Nappa leather upholstery, dash top and upper door panels;
Exclusive Linear Walnut inlays;
20” 10-spoke alloy wheels;
Ventilated and heated front seating;
12.3” digital instrument display;

A number of luxury add-ons are available for an upgraded experience, including:

LED headlights (standard in Inscription, optional package on Momentum);
12.3” digital instrument display (standard in Inscription, optional package on Momentum);
360-degree surround view camera;
Park assist pilot;
Adaptive cruise control with pilot assist;
Bowers & Wilkins state-of-the-art sound system (1400 watts, 19 speakers including integrated subwoofer);
20” 5-spoke alloy wheels (Momentum);
21” 8-spoke alloy wheels diamond cut (Inscription);

In the USA the T6 AWD Momentum starts at USD 48,900, while the T6 AWD Inscription will be yours for USD 54,500 MSRP.

Source: Volvo

October 6, 2014

Volvo V40 Cross Country Gets All-Wheel Drive

Volvo has announced that its V40 Cross Country will get an added capability of All-Wheel Drive (AWD). The Drive-E powertrain with a 245 hppetrol turbo T5 engine is currently being introduced for the V40 Cross Country. This combination of the Drive-E T5 unit with AWD will make the driving experience for customers more adventurous and they will get all the control they need in any road condition.

The powertrain of the vehicle also delivers 245 hp (180 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the Swedish company is also adding the eight-speed automatic gearbox with optional paddles on the steering wheel for manual gear shifting.

Furthermore, the model also shows impressive CO2 reductions. Since last year’s introduction of Volvo’s ground-breaking four-cylinder Drive-E engines, they have been praised for their unique ability to combine power and efficiency with a small footprint.

The new powertrain has decreased emissions, rated at 149 g/km, when one compares it to the previous generation model. This figure is unmatched for instance by the Audi Q3 TFSI Quattro (179 g/km), the BMW X1 xDrive20i xLine auto (170 g/km) and the Mercedes-Benz B-class (SUV) 220 Sport 4MATIC DCT (156 g/km).

Besides the engine upgrade, V40 Cross Country has also received various enhancements. New additions are the 19” Damara alloy wheel with grey diamond-cut rims. They not only offer extra comfort and off-road capability, but also less noise and added rim protection. There are also new exterior colour, called Power Blue, updated on-board infotainment and navigation system, Sensus Connect.

Source: Volvo

September 26, 2014

2015 Volvo XC90 R-Design – Innovative and Sporty

After the revealing of the all-new 2015 Volvo XC90, the manufacturer has presented the sporty version – R-Design. The trim level is available across all engine range and will be available to order from October, this year. The first deliveries are expected to start sometime during May, 2015.

The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package including modified front and rear bumpers, extended wheel arches, different exhaust set up, big alloy wheels and matt silver side mirrors. Other highlights include silver roof rails and some tweaks for the interior like new sport seats (front), sporty multi-functioning steering wheel with paddle-shifter and last, but not least – a new pedal set.

There is also a new touchscreen – 12.3” fully graphical driver display. The driver display also features a unique R-Design theme. The heart of the all-new in-car control is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to operate their car and access a range of Internet and cloud based products and services.

“In principle, we have replaced the previous top level with the Inscription and R-Design versions. Both of them feature an elevated content, carefully chosen to emphasise each of their distinctive individual personalities,” said Alain Visser, Vice President Sales Operations withing Marketing, Sales and Customer Service.

The top-of-range model boasts a 2.0 liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder power unit as well as an electric motor at the front wheels. The combined output is impressive – 400HP (298 kW).

Stay tuned for pricing and more specs.

Source: Volvo

September 18, 2014

Volvo releases truck that runs on natural gas

2015-Volvo-FE-CNG_thumb 2015-Volvo-FE-CNG_651

The Swedish auto maker Volvo has enhanced its truck range in Europe with the addition of a new version of the Volvo FE that runs entirely on compressed natural gas (CNG). The so-called Volvo FE CNG has been designed for activities that involve short driving cycles with repeated stops such as trash collection or local distribution. In addition to that the new Volvo FE CNG offers exceptional environmental cleanliness as natural gas has very low levels of harmful particles. If produced from biofuels, natural gas can have carbon dioxide emissions that are up to 70 per cent lower than those of a diesel-powered truck.

“With the Volvo FE CNG we can now offer companies that drive predominantly in urban environments a truck with a far lower environmental impact. Many cities the world over are looking for alternatives to diesel-powered trucks. In the field of refuse handling, for example, renewable fuels are often a requirement for securing a contract,” says Christina Eriksson, Business Manager Alternative Drivelines at Volvo Trucks.

The new Volvo FE CNG is powered by an all-new 9-liter Euro-6 engine featuring spark plug technology that produces 320 horsepower (235 kW) and 1356 Nm (1000 lb-ft) of torque. Thanks to its six-speed fully-automatic transmission, the truck retains the same excellent driveability and productivity as the conventional Volvo FE. The automatic transmission also gives faster driveline response.

“Spark plug technology is particularly suitable for driving cycles where the truck covers short distances with a lot of start-stop traffic,” explains Christina Eriksson.

“Methane gas is the fuel that will become a sustainable alternative to diesel in the long-term. Right now the focus is on working together with the various public authorities and private corporations to draw up the relevant rules and create the right conditions for positive development,” says Lars Mårtensson, Environmental Director at Volvo Trucks.

The new Volvo FE CNG will become commercially available this month with series production commencing in early 2015. No word on pricing as of now.

Source: Volvo

August 26, 2014

Volvo PV444 Model Turns 70

Volvo PV444 makes 70 year anniversary this year. On 1st of September 1944 an exhibition opened at the newly built Royal Tennis Hall in Stockholm. The exhibition showed what the then newly built company had achieved and what plans to do in the feature. The exhibition covered the entire Volvo range and two new models: PV60 and the PV444, which were later called “Volvo‘s doves of peace” after the end of Second World War.

PV60 was due to be presented in 1940, but because of the military situation the debut was postponed for four years later. The big star at the exhibition at the Royal Tennis Hall however, was the PV444. An interesting fact is that the visitors were so many that they had to stay on several levels to catch a glimpse of a prototype of the car could not even run.

Around 40 designers were working on developing the new Volvo model. They had so far a full scale black wooden model with silver paint denoting where there were meant to be windows. The car was completed in March 1944.

During the exhibition 2300 sale agreements were signed. Due to the fact that prototype cars were subjected to tough testing, and it was only on 3rd of February 1947 that the first car was signed off. PV444 was the firs small Volvo produced, but also was the first model to use monocoque body.

Moreover, it was driven by four-cylinder engine which featured completely new design and was Volvo’s first overhead valve design for a passenger car. The unit was 1.4 litres and its first version was capable of 40 hp (30 kW). All of the produced models were painted black with cellulose paint with metal parts inside the car painted in a light green colour.

Volvo began exporting the PV444 in the United States, making it the model’s historically most important export market. On 15th of August 1955, the first trial delivery of PV444s arrived in Los Angeles. One year after this, Volvo became the second import brand in California.

Originally, the Swedish company intended to build 8,000 PV444s. Nevertheless, the production of the “little Volvo” achieved almost 200,000 PV444s in 1958. If one includes the modernized PV544, produced until October 1965, the total number of the produced vehicles becomes exactly 440,000 cars.

Source: Volvo

August 26, 2014

Volvo Introduces Sensus Connect Technology

Volvo Sensus Connect is company’s connected car platform which will be introduced in North America in all 2015.5 Volvo models. It will be combined with the Volvo On Call telematics solution, and the Volvo On Call smartphone app. With this step Volvo becomes the first manufacturer to offer such a system as standard equipment across the entire model range. Sensus Connect was developed in order to deliver customers the access of infotainment.

The new Volvo models will come equipped with cloud- and app-based services. Included are elements such as 3G connectivity service powered by AT&T, Wi-Fi hotspot and tethering capabilities, Internet, phone, and text message access, in-car infotainment apps, 24/7 call center support with in-car roadside assistance, etc.

Volvo equipped with Sensus Connect includes full-function steering wheel controls and select voice control options for additional safety. There is also included digital dash and seven inch center stack display.

On vehicles which are featuring in-car navigation the system is upgraded with 3D graphics and lifetime map upgrades. In addition, with the Volvo On Call button, customers can reach 24/7 roadside assistance and SOS emergency service access as well as stolen vehicle tracking.

Furthermore, with every 2015.5 Volvo model the company offers a free smartphone app: Volvo On Call app. It will provide customers with an immediate status overview of their Volvo. The app can locate the car, can provide the status of its windows and door locks, details on recent trips, vehicle’s fuel level and average fuel mileage, ad etc.

There are also several functions of the vehicle which can be managed vie the application. Such are the remote engine start to heat or cool the car before arriving, honking the horn and flashing the lights, requesting roadside assistance, and even sending locations directly to the in-car navigation system.

Source: Volvo

August 25, 2014

Tag: Volvo