2012 Tesla Model S 【Video】

Tesla has released a new video that shows the Model S in action.

The North American company has divided its vehicle testing stage into two phases, Alpha and Beta, and this next video shows the Tesla Model S, which as you can notice, features a slightly modified front fascia, during the Alpha phase which began in 2010. 

The 2012 Model S is rear drive. The compact electric motor and transmission assembly — much smaller than a conventional internal combustion engine and gearbox — is mounted behind the rear axle line and under the trunk floor. More than 7,000 lithium ion battery cells are packaged in a reinforced structure that helps comprise the vehicle's floorpan. Cargo volume exceeds 30 cubic feet thanks to functional front and rear luggage areas.

As we have previously reported, the Model S is motivated by an electric motor that is powered by a 42 kWh lithium-ion battery. It enables the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, hit a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h), and travel up to 300 miles (483 km) on a single charge.

Fenice Gold And Diamonds Fiat 500C【Video】

A Chinese businessman, who wants to remain anonymous, commissioned the Italian coach Fenice Milano a Fiat Abarth 500 C, with various elements in gold and diamonds, inspired by the prototype ‘La Dolce Vita’, presented last October.

The model was commissioned from Italian design house Fenice Milano which has labelled it "La Dolce Vita Gold and Diamonds 200hp". Even the outside of the car features 24K gold particles in the golden pearlescent white paint and there's a gold thread finish to the hood too. But that's just the beginning.

This Fenice Fiat 500C uses 24K gold on everything, from the instrument panel, to the dashboard and other trim parts.

The interior of the Fenice Fiat 500 Convertible Abarth has been decked out with teak inserts, special leather and diamonds. The console is embellished with a gold framed instrument panel and teak and 24K gold inserts dashboard, whose profiles are hand-shaped by Fenice Milano’s artisans.





Press Release

€ 500,000 for a gold and diamonds 500C commissioned to Fenice Milan and Stuart Hughes

After the great interest achieved from the presentation on the market in September 2010, Fenice Milano (www.fenicemilano.com) receives a commission from a wealthy Chinese businessman to build a special version of its "little one", which adds exclusivity and determination to the retro charm of the initial project. The new, unique model was named "La Dolce Vita Gold and Diamonds 200hp". A name that, by itself, sais it all and briefly describes the extraordinary budget that justifies a price of almost €500,000.

Further improved in performance thanks to the recently established partnership with the famous car technician Romeo Ferraris (www.romeoferraris.com) - specialized in car engine modifications and road racing since 1959 - and enriched by the installation of new electronic devices such as the prestigious "Supreme gold and diamonds Ipad" produced by the English Atelier of Stuart Hughes (www.stuarthughes.com).

The starting point for this event is the 500C Abarth, fully mechanically revised, to reach the extraordinary level of 200Hp, and whose precious finishes result in a real jewel of style and Made in Italy workmanship.

Thanks to its compact size (355cm long, 165cm wide and 149cm in height), this little jewel is ideal to comfortably move in the city, without sacrificing the luxury and exclusivity guaranteed by several inserts of precious materials, such as 24K gold and quality woods such as teak, entirely handmade by Fenice Milano's artisans. Pleasure and excitement in driving are guaranteed, due to an increase of 68hp from the original, permitted by the new ECU and exclusive use of an increased turbine entirely developed by Romeo Ferraris' Factory, combined with pipes and fittings made from scratch, as well as the complete exhaust system with 200-cells catalytic converter designed to improve engine performance. To add security, the brake system has also been completely revised, in order to balance the increased power obtained. The front axle has in fact been provided with an improved kit by Brembo equipped with adjustable dampers able to tame the exuberance of 'La Dolce Vita' and making it both safe and fun.

Inside, the redesigned steering wheel has the outer ring made of the teak and the interior one made in leather with controls in 24K gold, even the original carpet floor was replaced with teak. The console is embellished with a gold framed instrument panel and teak and 24K gold inserts dashboard, whose profiles are handshaped by Fenice Milano's artisans.

The last major innovation provided in "La Dolce Vita Gold and Diamonds 200hp" is in fact the placing in central position of an Ipad Supreme Edition made in 24k gold and diamonds by English designer Stuart Hughes, specialized in developing technological applications in precious materials. Especially designed for those who want to make the most of innovation and exclusivity in the onboard control instruments, the space for the Ipad provides a complete interaction of the device with the car, which is fitted with a GPS navigation system, a last generation hi-fi that can handle MP3 and all Ipod features and also an internet connection run by wi-fi and a appropriate sim card.

The golden pearlescent white painting includes 24K gold particles. The electric hood is provided in technical natural colored fabric with gold thread finished. The redesigned seats are also sewn with the precious material, the interior elements are full grain leather and natural-colored Alcantara with handmade on sight stitching.

Curiositiy:
The future owner wants the delivery of its new "little treat" to be made in absolute concealment, in a jewelry shop owned by a friend, as depicted in the animation video.

Volvo Mean Green – World’s Fastest Hybrid Truck

Volvo Trucks has produced a unique hybrid truck powered by a standard 16-litre 700 hp engine with twin turbos, an automated I-Shift gearbox and of course an electric motor. All this adds an additional 200 horsepower and 1100 Newton metres of torque- it’s quick!

Apart from the combustion engine, the Volvo Mean Green truck also has an electric motor, which adds 200 hp and 1100 Nm to the total output of the vehicle. The massive powerplant of the Volvo Mean Green truck sends its power to the wheels via a automated I-Shift gearbox.
The Volvo Mean Green truck has to beat a world record of a 166.7 km/h two-way average speed and a top speed of 260 km/h.

Aerodynamic improvements were made using a CAD simulated wind tunnel. Designer Jonas Sandstrom spent countless our doing this, together with his very dedicated team. “The absolute elite among Volvo’s hybrid technology experts are the driving force behind the project. They are true enthusiasts, every last one of them. I’d go so far as to say that ‘Mean Green’ is the world’s fastest hybrid truck.”




Press Release

"MEAN GREEN' – THE WORLD'S FASTEST HYBRID TRUCK
Mean Green is a unique hybrid truck built by an enthusiastic team at Volvo Trucks. They plan to use it next spring to beat the world speed record for the standing kilometer and behind the wheel is Swedish truck racing ace, Boije Ovebrink.

“The absolute elite among Volvo’s hybrid technology experts are the driving force behind the project. They are true enthusiasts, every last one of them. I’d go so far as to say that ‘Mean Green’ is the world’s fastest hybrid truck,” says Ovebrink.

To understand how he can make this claim with such confidence, we need to rewind to November 2007. Ovebrink had just beaten his own standing kilometre record from 2001 for trucks with a maximum displacement of 16 litres. He achieved this by reaching an average speed of 158.829 km/h with his red Volvo NH16 - a.k.a. ‘The Wild Viking’. After winning he met Staffan Jufors, President and CEO of Volvo Trucks, who asked him, “Do you plan to sit down and twiddle your thumbs now, enjoying the fame that comes with being world champion or do you have any new ideas?” Ovebrink replied: “I’d like to build the world’s fastest hybrid truck.”

“The idea met with approval, but at the time I had no idea about the fantastic technology Volvo had in the pipeline,” he recalls.

Planning for the hybrid got under way, but suddenly, however, a Czech truck racing team claimed they had beaten Ovebrink’s record. Order had to be restored, so that spring, Volvo engineer Olof Johansson got down to some serious work. He started building a truck that could retake the record, but that could also be reconfigured for the planned racing hybrid driveline. That truck is now called ‘Mean Green’. But the team decided not to install the hybrid driveline straight away.

“I started building the truck from two half frames that had been earmarked for the scrap yard and the American VN cab came from a crash-tested chassis whose cab was totally intact,” he explains.

Weight reduction was absolutely crucial to setting new records. For example, the front axle was milled by experts from Volvo’s engine factory in Skövde, Sweden and reduced from 100 kgs to 57 kgs. Then the gear set for first gear was removed from the gearbox, shaving another seven kgs off.

“I slit open the wiring harnesses and removed unnecessary wiring. That slashed almost six kilos,” says Johansson.

Ovebrink was also ordered to lose weight, as he recalls, “They made me promise to lose 20 kilos and, so fa,r I’m half-way to my target.”

Designer Jonas Sandström at Volvo put in many hours with his CAD program to come up with the optimal aerodynamic shape.

“It’s important that the wind breaks away from the bodywork in the right way. Our truck differs from a Formula 1 car, for instance, in that the aerodynamic properties allow the truck to slice through the air rather than be pressed down onto the road surface,” he explains.

Just a few days before the assault on the record, it was announced that FIA, the international motorsport organisation, had disallowed the Czech team’s result. Still, there was no need to cancel the planned attempt on the record. Ovebrink and the Volvo team were aiming to further improve on the 2007 record - and on June 9th 2010 they did just that. The new world record for the standing kilometre was set at a two-way average speed of 166.7 km/h. Top speed was in the region of 260 km/h.

Once this was achieved, focus reverted to what the entire project had been about from the very outset.

“Olof immediately went on the offensive. The very same day the new record was set; he pulled out his toolbox and started modifying the truck to build what we see today – a thoroughbred hybrid.”

The truck already had a standard Volvo 16-litre 700 hp engine with equipment including twin turbos from Volvo Penta. It was a powerplant delivering a massive 1900 horsepower. The truck retained that unit. However, the lightened Powertronic auto-shifter was replaced with a modified version of Volvo’s automated I-Shift gearbox so that the transmission could interact with the component that makes ‘Mean Green’ a hybrid – its electric motor.

“This gives an additional 200 horsepower and 1100 Newton metres of torque. The result is a lightning-speed boost from start-off without any of the customary diesel-engine ‘lag’. It’s like a champagne cork, but without the sound effects. For the first couple of seconds, the truck just makes a slight whistle until the diesel engine, which runs on renewable liquid rosin diesel, starts delivering with explosive force – by which time the truck is already doing 60 km/h and I can engage ninth gear,” explains Ovebrink.

So, when is ‘Mean Green’ going to make its bid for the standing kilometre record ? “This November we’ll test race it at Volvo’s Hällered proving ground to see what it’s capable of. Then, as soon as the winter snows disappear early next spring, we’ll set our record.” says Ovebrink, confidently.

Volvo Concept Truck 2020

Swedish manufacturer Volvo Trucks recently unveiled the Volvo Concept Truck 2020 design concept, The Volvo Concept Truck 2020 displays a long distance vehicle, which can be combined in length, equipped with autopilot. The Volvo Concept Truck 2020 will be able to drive non-stop in nose-to-tail convoys that run at 90 km/h (56 mph) while the cars communicate with each other via a wireless connection.

Moving on to driver’s comfort, the driver’s seat looks more like a modern office chair with a thin ventilated mesh backrest. Behind the driver seat you will find a futon sofa which can be turned into a wide comfortable bed. The luxury experience is further complemented by the customizable lighting that can be changed as per in-cab tasks or resting. The driver may also control the privacy screening and blackout electronically.

Outside, the concept truck features LED headlamps and turn indicators that are integrated into the front of the vehicle. The rear-view mirrors have been replaced by cameras, while images are projected onto the inside of the windscreen.

The Concept Truck 2020 has rear-view cameras that project an image onto the inside of the windscreen and helps the driver to orientate better, LED headlamps and indicators, and collision protection panels on the truck's nose.




Press Release

TRUCKS OF THE FUTURE; CLOSER TO REALITY THAN YOU THINK

Progress is getting ever faster. In just ten years' time trucks are going to be a lot different to those of today. At least that is according to Rikard Orell, Design Director at Volvo Truck Corporation and one of the brains behind Concept Truck 2020, the Volvo Truck Corporation's bold vision for the future.

Long distance haulage for the future: long combinations, controlled by autopilot, driven non-stop in nose-to-tail convoys on green super-motorways linking the continents.

This is the vision of the future that generated the ideas behind the Volvo Concept Truck 2020 design concept. But will it really look like this in just ten years?

"That is the whole point," says Rikard Orell Design Director at Volvo Trucks. "Progress is getting ever faster. Because of this our vision for the future is not that far away. Much of the technology in the Volvo Concept Truck 2020 is already available; other technology needs to be developed. One needs to dare to stride firmly into the debate, demonstrating what one can and will do. Just tinkering at the edges runs the risk of progress slipping away."

Safer and more efficient commercial transport

As road transport expands it must also become safer and more efficient. Volvo's design concept contains ideas about how that can be achieved. Some of these ideas can be integrated into production today, while others are there to arouse interest and start a discussion.

One of the more startling ideas is to link vehicles together wirelessly into long road-trains that rush across the continents at 90 km/h (56 mph).

"This will be possible when the transport sector's vision of green corridors becomes reality," says Rikard Orell. "Here heavy goods vehicles are separated from other traffic, driving in their own lanes, rather like a railway, but without the rails."

There are many advantages. Road safety increases, transport services require less space and wear and tear on the roads decreases. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions drop thanks to reduced drag when a truck is in the slipstream of the vehicle in front. In addition the driver can rest behind the wheel while the truck effectively drives itself. If this is counted as idle time, transport times can be cut, deliveries will be made more quickly and drivers can get back to their friends and families earlier.

Spacious and airy driver environment

The driver is at the centre of Volvo's world. It goes without saying that a design concept from Volvo Trucks contains a great many ideas about the development of the driver environment. In the Volvo Concept Truck 2020 the driver's environment is spacious, airy and free of disruption.

"We have replaced the traditional dashboard with a thin film panel on which information is tailored to suit the driver," says Rikard Orell. "The panel is operated like a touchpad, just like an iPhone. We have saved a lot of space that way."

Another space-saving idea is the sleek driver's seat with its thin, ventilated mesh backrest, more like a modern office chair than a traditional driver's seat. Behind the driver is a futon sofa which folds out into a wide, comfortable bed in the evening.

The lighting in the cab is divided into zones customised for the driver's various in-cab tasks, or for resting. Around the driver are large areas of glass providing good visibility out of the vehicle and even into it. This benefits eye contact between the driver and other road users preventing accidents. Privacy screening and blackout in the evening are also controlled electronically.

Aerodynamic collision protection

The design team also aimed for a sleek look for the exterior, reducing the perception of the vehicle's size. The LED headlamps and indicators are integrated into the front of the vehicle. The rear-view mirrors have been replaced by cameras that project their images onto the inside of the windscreen.

The lower section of the front of the vehicle features integrated collision protection projecting forwards about half a metre. This ‘nose' is gentler on oncoming cars in the event of a head-on collision and has also been shown to improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle.

As Rikard Orell points out, "Because the nose is a safety function, our starting point has been that it does not count as part of the maximum permitted vehicle length, just as rear-view mirrors today are outside the maximum permitted width."

Some things you just do not change. The ‘Globetrotter' sign on the roof is still there, but has been redesigned so that it harmonises with the lines of the vehicle and reduces drag. The driver can also change the text on the sign from the instrument panel.

The rear end is the next stage

So work on the external design focuses largely on aerodynamics, but by how much is it really possible to reduce drag on a truck ?

"We have come so far with the front of the vehicle that further changes to the basic shape provide only marginal improvements," says Rikard Orell. "However, a lot will happen when we start work on the design of the rear end of the vehicle. There is a great deal of untapped aerodynamic potential there."

A Volvo car ride can ease allergies

As wonderful as the spring is for many people, it is also sheer torture for others. A person suffering from asthma or allergy has few sanctuaries during the pollen season. However, a ride in a Volvo car may make life easier.

"The filters we fit to clean the passenger compartment air also remove the particles that cause allergies. A ride in a car can actually make breathing easier for many sufferers when the problem becomes acute," says Andreas Andersson, manager of allergy-optimised car interiors at Volvo Cars.

The filters that clean the air have two functions - one blocks particles and the other is impregnated with active carbon, which neutralises gases. The air in the car's passenger compartment is monitored by an air quality system that measures the amount of gases in the incoming air. Well before the levels get too high, the air intake to the passenger compartment is shut entirely automatically without any input from the driver. For this reason, the air inside the car is in principle always cleaner than the air outside.

Automatic ventilation
One factor that contributes to the clean in-car air is the automatic ventilation system, which airs out the car when the driver unlocks it. This system is currently found in the Volvo S80, XC60, V70, XC70 and S60 but will gradually be introduced in all the company's models.

Volvo Cars is in the lead in the development of allergy-optimised cars. Uniquely in the car industry, the textiles used in all the company's models meet the stringent Öko-Tex* standards, while the leather upholstery is entirely free of chromium.
What is more, nickel seepage from all metal-finish interior trim components has been minimised. As a result, five Volvo models with nine different interior trim alternatives have interior air of such high quality that they are recommended by the Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association.

Several Volvo models have also received high ratings by Healthy Car in the US, an independent organisation that bases its results on research and studies of harmful substances in vehicles.
"We know that 35-40 percent of people in the western world suffer from some form of oversensitivity or allergy. This is a major problem for many people and it is therefore important that we as a car maker offer a clean environment inside our vehicles," says Andreas Andersson.

Filter to tackle small particles
The researchers at Volvo Cars are now working on the development of filters that can stop even the tiniest of particles.

"It is the small particles that are the most dangerous. They may not result in immediate symptoms like the larger ones do, which cause allergies to blossom. However, small particles can cause negative health effects in the longer term," concludes Andreas Andersson.

Jan Olson, marketing manager at the Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association, is both grateful for and highly satisfied over the organisation's cooperation with Volvo Cars.
"We haven't received any negative feedback from users since we defined the criteria for allergy-optimised air quality, and several of Volvo's models have been approved in accordance with these standards. This means we have pitched our standards exactly right," he explains.

"It's difficult to give an exact figure, but we do not see any tendency for the problem to tail off. And the level is roughly the same throughout Europe," adds Jan Olson.

DRIVe Towards Zero
The development of an allergy-optimised in-car environment is part of the vision that Volvo Cars presented under the heading DRIVe Towards Zero, where the aim is to develop cars that are entirely free from harmful particles and carbon dioxide emissions. Thus far, China is the only country that regulates in-car air quality with enforced legislation. In Japan there are regulations for domestic car manufacturers.

IAQS (Interior Air Quality System), automatic ventilation and removable floor-mats are all grouped together under the heading of CZIP, which stands for Clean Zone Interior Package. IAQS is available as an option on all Volvo's car models.

Volvo Cars models that can be ordered with CZIP and are recommended by the Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association:
Volvo S80
Volvo V70
Volvo XC60
Volvo XC70
Volvo S60 (the tests are being carried out this spring but the model meets the same standards as the other recommended models)

*International Oeko-Tex® Association is a collection of 14 reputable textile research and test institutes in Europe and Japan that conduct independent tests of harmful substances.

Source:Volvo

All-New Volvo S60 in the Belgian Touring Car Series

The new Volvo S60 gets ready for its racing debut. The Swedish carmaker revealed today that a racing version of the sedan will enter the 2010 Belgian Touring Car Series (BTCS).

The race version of the Volvo S60 has been developed in accordance with the BTCS regulations, meaning it has a tubular chassis, the same type of front and rear suspension and aerodynamics.

Power is provided by a mid-mounted 3.5-liter V6 engine with 410 hp (306 kW / 416 PS) and 412 Nm (304 lb-ft) of torque. It motivates the rear wheels through a six-speed sequential transmission.

"The all-new Volvo S60 sports sedan is Volvo's most exciting driving experience so far and there is no better way to show this than by bringing it to the race track. Volvo and the all-new S60 have a special place in the people's hearts here as several Volvo models, including the new S60, are built in Belgium at the Volvo Cars Ghent plant."






Press Release

Ready for the race track

Volvo Cars enters the all-new
Volvo S60 in the Belgian Touring Car Series

Just weeks after the all-new Volvo S60 was introduced to the public, the
latest Volvo model is also being unveiled in a racing version. Volvo Cars
Belgium will enter the new car in the 2010 season of the Belgian Touring Car
Series. Volvo fans will not need to wait long to see the latest model in
action since the premiere takes place on April 11.

"We are very happy about this development," says Bart Crols, Managing
Director at Volvo Cars Belgium. "The all-new Volvo S60 sports sedan is
Volvo's most exciting driving experience so far and there is no better way
to show this than by bringing it to the race track. Volvo and the all-new
S60 have a special place in the people's hearts here as several Volvo
models, including the new S60, are built in Belgium at theVolvo Cars Ghent
plant."

The new Volvo S60 race car has been developed in record time locally by
Volvo's Belgian S60 Racing Team. It has been developed in accordance with
the BTCS Silhouette S1 regulations which put a major emphasis on
standardised features. All cars must use a tubular chassis, the same type of
front and rear suspension and aerodynamics. A uniform type of engine
specification is also available but manufacturers are allowed to use own
engines.

The Volvo S60 Racing Team will also operate the car at all BTCS races and
the drivers are Vincent Radermecker and Eric Van De Poele.

Its maiden track test will take place on April 1 (today) on the Belgian
Zolder track.

"It has been a hectic period, but we have received great assistance from
Volvo Cars' Motorsport department" says Thomas Neri, Team Manager for the
Volvo S60 Racing Team. He continues: "Our main objective is to get up to
speed and to compete well in the various heats. Next season we hope to put
our own in-house developed engine in the car."

BTCS - low cost, high-performance racing

The BTCS is an endurance racing championship with six competitions on
tracks such as Spa-Francorchamps, Zolder and Dijon. Each race consists of
two 90-minute heats and there is also one 12-hour race in Spa. The all-new
Volvo S60 will face intense competition from the likes of BMW, Audi, Jaguar
and VW. BTCS has grown rapidly in terms of both competing brands and numbers
thanks to its low-cost, high-performance combination and, not least, the
fact that the cars have considerable visual appeal. The race series is
televised in several countries and is gaining in popularity.

"We will support and follow our development in this series very closely
as several other national championships are considering similar standardised
regulations in the future," says Derek Crabb, Motorsport Director at the
Volvo Car Corporation. "This BTCS campaign will give us a good understanding
of what these types of regulations can mean for Volvo."

Technical Specification Volvo S60 BTCS

• Regulation: BTCS Silhouette S1


• Chassis: Tubular frame


• Front Suspension: Independent with 3-way adjustable shock absorbers


• Rear Suspension: Independent with 3-way onboard adjustable shock
  absorbers


• Brakes: 6-piston callipers, 380 mm discs at the front and 6-piston
  callipers, 355 mm discs at the rear


• Engine: Mid-mounted standardised 3500 cc V6


• Engine Power Output: 410 hp with 412 Nm at 5500rpm


• Gearbox: Six-speed sequential. Rear-wheel drive


• Wheels: 10" X 18" front and 12" X 18" rear


• Tyres: Michelin 27/65/18 front and Michelin 30/65/18 rear

2010 Racing Calendar for the all-new Volvo S60 in the BTCS series

• April 9-11 Zolder


• April 30-May 2 Dijon-Prenois


• June 4-6 Spa-Francorchamps


• July 9-10 Spa-Francorchamps


• September 17-19 Spa-Francorchamps


• October 8-10 Zolder

More information about the Belgian Touring Car Series:
http://www.btcseries.be/

World premiere for the new Volvo C70 at the Motor Show [Video]

For the first time, HEICO SPORTIV will be exhibiting at the Geneva Motor Show in cooperation with Volvo Automobile (Schweiz) AG, where it will be presenting the new edition of the Volvo C70.

The new Volvo is a vehicle of many qualities. An exhilarating coupé and smart convertible in one, it's Scandinavian elegance targets highly discerning people placing maximum demands on design and individuality.

HEICO SPORTIV is broadening the comprehensive mass production portfolio, offering some very eye-catching icing on the cake. "Our program kicks in where Volvo's leaves off. It's characterized by supplementation rather than substitution," explains HEICO SPORTIV General Manager, Holger Hedtke.


Uncompromising in functionality and design

A credo with which HEICO SPORTIV has dedicated itself to the Volvo C70. The front spoiler forged in flexible, lightweight polyurethane plastic (PUR) dissolves into the profile like an OEM element, providing for the distinctively sporty but unobtrusive look. Unmistakable, evocative forms take up again at the rear, where the diffuser and stainless steel exhaust system with four round chrome plated end pipes form a single, harmonious unit. Sound included!

While the convertible sets the tone for relaxed cruising, the coupé morphs into a true cornering artiste on winding country lanes. HEICO SPORTIV's chassis development addresses both penchants, offering sport springs or the firmer sport suspension - depending on gusto. Either option lowers the chassis by 30 millimeters, the sunk center of gravity providing for optimized handling.

The "Driving Package" is rounded off by the HEICO SPORTIV 9x20 inch forged wheel set VOLUTION® X. The forged wheel has a 15 - 20% weight advantage over the cast wheel and is the exclusive, crowning glory of the HEICO SPORTIV VOLUTION® sport wheel program from 18 inches upwards.


For those with an attentiveness to craftsmanship and timeless design

HEICO SPORTIV also sets new highlights when it comes to the interior fittings of the Volvo C70. With perfect craftsmanship, finest quality leather was set and worked with a sure taste for style on the dashboard, door trims and cover profile of the metal convertible roof. "Our goal was to retain the Volvo C70's traditional character, while further enhancing its emotional potential," explains Holger Hedtke.


Design cooperation with THONET, the world's oldest globally celebrated furniture brand

One exclusive highlight is a filigree wooden gear shift lever - the pioneering result of a new joint venture with THONET. Through its weightlessness, the rolling, classy walnut sculpture emphasizes the use of form of the freely floating central console. The limited-edition wooden gearshift lever is hand made in an elaborate, multistage process.

Product summary:

• 18-20" sport wheel program VOLUTION® in five (V.) and ten (X.) spoke design in the colors Silver, Titanium and Black Cut Diamond; also available as forged wheel (VOLUTION® X. 9x20" only)

• Differential lock for superior traction (T5 manual gearbox only)

• Dual or quad pipe stainless steel exhaust system

• Sport springs or sport suspension with lowering by ca. 30 millimeters

• Quad-piston sports brake system (country specific)

• Interior aluminum applications such as pedal set, foot rest and hand brake handle

• ECU upgrade for 2.0D and D5 (country specific)

The world
premiere of the Volvo C70 by HEICO SPORTIV will be on display at the exclusive "Volvo S60 Lounge" at the Hotel Crowne Plaza, directly next to the Motor Show's Palexpo exhibition hall. Those interested can also obtain detailed directions to the "Volvo S60 Lounge" from the official Volvo stand in Hall 6.
Photos:carscoop

Geneva Debut: 2011 Volvo S60 Detailed [Video]

The all-new Volvo S60 - sculpted to move you

The all-new Volvo S60 has its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on the 2nd of March.

It makes its entry into one of the automotive world's toughest segments backed by an extrovert attitude never before seen in Volvo showrooms.

The all-new S60 has been sculpted to move you - both physically and emotionally.

It is also without a doubt the most dynamic car model Volvo has ever presented - and its Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake is a groundbreaking safety feature.

"The sporty design delivers a visual promise of enthusiastic driving characteristics and I can assure you that the all-new S60 truly lives up to that promise. Its driving properties are better than those of any previous Volvo. What is more, the car's innovative new technologies help you become both a better and a safer driver," says Volvo Cars President and CEO Stephen Odell.

With the all-new Volvo S60, Volvo Cars is advancing its position in one of the car world's most competitive segments: CD Premium.

"The competition is razor-sharp and the customers know exactly what they want. The emphasis is on emotional stance, sporty design and dynamic driving properties. Success in this segment means a lot for the brand's image and we are convinced that the all-new S60 will be one of the strongest contenders," says Stephen Odell.


Coupe with surprising rear doors

The all-new S60 is sportier and more dynamic than any previous Volvo. But it is still an unmistakeable representative of Scandinavian design at its best.

"The S60 has been sculpted to move you. Every single line in its design is there to transport you both physically and emotionally. Its profile radiates so much coupe feeling that the rear doors come as something of a pleasant surprise when you examine the car close-up," says Volvo Cars' Design Director Peter Horbury.

Virtually all the lines were penned to carve out the dynamic profile. The C-pillar of the all-new S60 stretches sensually all the way to the tail lamps - and the slim coupe-like roof line is accompanied by a new contour on the shoulders on either side of the lower body, creating a gentle yet powerful double wave from the headlamps at the front to the tail lamps at the rear.

The dip in the middle of the double wave visually pushes the car down. This enhances the stance and makes the car look sleeker and lower. The sculpted bonnet and the short overhangs front and rear also emphasise the sports car feel.


The most dynamic Volvo ever

The all-new S60 is exceptional also from the keen driver's perspective. It is without a doubt the most dynamic car model Volvo has ever presented.

"This project has been about pure passion for the task of driving Volvo's chassis development expertise to its very pinnacle. We've crossed into territory where we've never been before," says Stefan Sällqvist, who is in charge of developing the chassis of the all-new S60.

The sedan can be specified with a choice of two chassis. On the European market the newly developed dynamic chassis is standard, while most markets in North America and Asia will have the comfort chassis as standard with the sport variant available as an option.

The difference between the two chassis alternatives is to be found in the dampers and the front and rear subframes. Here the comfort variant has a somewhat softer setting to give a smoother ride on poorer road surfaces.


Every single detailed refined

"The spotlight was on giving the concept of comfort a whole new dimension. The dynamic chassis has an alert, quick-responding architecture that puts the focus on the driving experience, yet without diluting the impression of a comfortable ride," explains Stefan Sällqvist.

During the development process, the chassis team carved out a holistic solution featuring changes and refinements for virtually every single detail that influences a car's driving properties. This includes improved steering, stiffer springs and bushes as well as more damping than in any previous Volvo.

The software in the AWD (All Wheel Drive) system has been modified to allow the four-wheel drive variants (four-wheel drive is standard in the T6 and optional with the D5) of the all-new Volvo S60 to exploit the sporty new chassis to the limit.

All variants of the new S60 can be specified with the advanced, self-adjusting FOUR-C active chassis. The FOUR-C active chassis has been modified and refined for better control and more comfortable feel compared to previous Volvos.


First sedan with Advanced Stability Control

The dynamic new chassis in the all-new Volvo S60 is backed up by a range of electronic systems that sharpen the sporty driving experience still further.

The S60 is the first sedan model on the market with Advanced Stability Control. With a new roll angle sensor, it is possible to identify any skidding tendency at a very early stage. This means that the Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) can step in earlier and with greater precision. Advanced Stability Control is a great asset in dynamic driving involving considerable lateral forces, thus improving handling and rapid avoidance manoeuvres.

Corner Traction Control for tighter cornering

Corner Traction Control is a new feature that uses torque vectoring so the car takes curves even more smoothly. This technology is a further refinement of the DSTC system. When cornering, the car's inner driven wheel is braked at the same time as more power is transmitted to the outer driven wheel. This allows the driver to take the curve more tightly while reducing any tendency to understeer.

A highly advanced braking system is an important part of the dynamic driving properties of the all-new S60. The sedan is equipped with a number of features that interact to provide the shortest possible stopping distance in all scenarios.


Exclusive quality inside

The interior of the all-new S60 takes Volvo Cars to a new dimension in terms of exclusive quality. In addition, Volvo Cars' designers have added in excitement, contrast and playfulness to the rational simplicity of Scandinavian design tradition.

"The interior has a more extrovert attitude than before, but without losing any of its practical Scandinavian roots. The all-new S60 brings us up to a whole new level when it comes to the integral experience of colour, form, material and technology," says Peter Horbury.

Scandinavian design is often described with rational adjectives such as functionality, simplicity and clarity. When creating the all-new S60, the design team also added in a modern touch, details that generate excitement, contrast and playfulness.

The interior of the all-new S60 is lavish in terms of its driver-oriented details, but it is still a five-seater car offering comfortable space for all its occupants. The sculpted outer rear seats give the passenger in the middle welcome side support. Knee space in the rear seat has increased by 30 mm compared with the previous-generation S60. The rear seat splits 40/60 and the boot opening has been made 107 mm wider than in the previous-generation S60.


Most high-tech Volvo ever - with Pedestrian Detection

The sporty interior of the all-new S60 is also the most advanced high-tech environment ever offered to a Volvo driver.

"The interior of the all-new S60 is all about innovative design in two areas: form and technology. The design is characterised by sporty freshness down to the smallest detail. The technological aspect includes all those smart solutions that contribute to a driving experience unlike that of any other Volvo - from collision avoidance safety and comfort systems to infotainment and audio excellence of absolute world class," says Tomas Ahlborg, Project Director for the all-new S60.

Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake is a groundbreaking technological solution. It can detect pedestrians who walk into the road in front of the car, warn the driver - and automatically apply full braking power if the driver does not respond in time.

"We are truly proud of our success in making our technology so reliable that we can offer a complete system that can avoid a collision with a pedestrian by detecting, alerting and applying full braking. It's a world first, to the best of our knowledge. With this technology we have increased the braking force in our automatic braking system from fifty percent to full stopping power," says Thomas Broberg, Senior Safety Advisor at Volvo Cars.


Can avoid collision with a pedestrian at up to 35 km/h

In an emergency situation the driver first receives an audible warning combined with a flashing light in the windscreen's head-up display. At the same time, the car's brakes are pre-charged. If the driver does not react to the warning and an accident is imminent, full braking power is automatically applied.

Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake can avoid a collision with a pedestrian at speeds of up to 35 km/h if the driver does not react in time. At higher speeds, the focus is on slowing down the car as much as possible prior to the impact.

A lower speed of impact means that the risk of serious injury is significantly reduced. For instance, if speed is cut from 50 km/h to 25 km/h, Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake is expected to reduce the fatality risk by as much as 20 percent and in some cases by up to 85 percent.

City Safety standard

The all-new Volvo S60 also features City Safety as standard.

With City Safety, the car automatically brakes if the driver fails to react in time when the vehicle in front slows down or stops - or if he or she is driving too fast towards a stationary object. The system can lessen or even entirely avoid low-speed rear-end impacts at speeds up to 30 kilometres an hour.


More powerful T6 version

During its first year of production, the all-new Volvo S60 will be available with a variety of diesel and petrol engines spanning the range from an economical 115 horsepower DRIVe version to an eager high-performance turbocharged version producing 304 horsepower.

The T6 petrol engine has a displacement of 3.0 litres and has been improved still further, primarily thanks to lower internal friction. It now pumps out 304 hp and no less than 440 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 6.5 seconds and top speed is 250 km/h.

At the same time, Volvo Cars' engine specialists have succeeded in cutting fuel consumption by about 10 percent to 10.2 l/100 km (EU Combined, preliminary figure).

The engine's power is delivered to the wheels via Volvo's second-generation six-speed automatic Geartronic transmission. New valves and lower friction mean faster gearchanges than before. AWD (All-Wheel Drive) is standard on the T6.

New direct-injected two-litre engine

The new four-cylinder 2.0 GTDi (Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection) engine has a displacement of two litres and produces a generous 203 hp, with 300 Nm of torque available from 1750 rpm. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 7.7 seconds with the manual gearbox and 8.2 seconds with the automatic. The top speed figures are 235 km/h (manual) and 230 km/h (automatic).

The Volvo S60 2.0T with manual gearbox uses just 7.9 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (EU Combined, preliminary figure).

New Volvo-developed turbocharging technology, direct injection and twin variable camshafts give a unique combination of low fuel consumption, low emissions and high performance across a wide rev range - all in a particularly compact format.

The turbocharger is the market's smallest in relation to the engine's maximum power output. Another new feature is that the exhaust manifold and turbocharger are made of sheet steel rather than a heavier casting. A manifold made of sheet steel is admittedly nothing particularly new but thus far it has only been used in combination with a cast turbo housing. The new fully integrated turbo system of sheet steel is a world innovation and has been patented by Volvo.

Later during the first year of production, the all-new S60 will also become available as a 2.0 GTDi variant (T5) producing 240 hp and torque of 320 Nm. Furthermore, there will be a 1.6-litre GTDi engine available in two versions: 180 hp (T4) and 150 hp (T3) with torque of 240 Nm.

All the GTDi engines will be available in combination with Volvo's automatic six-speed Powershift transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox.


Two five cylinder turbodiesels

The engine range also includes two five-cylinder turbodiesels.

The D5 high-performance engine with twin turbos produces 205 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 7.8 seconds (manual and automatic). Top speed is 235 km/h (manual) and 230 km/h (automatic).

In the most recent D5 version, which was introduced in spring 2009, the performance and driveability requirements have been met by fitting two turbochargers of different sizes, one taking over from the other and providing added power across a broader rev range. Fuel consumption is 5.9 l/100 km (EU Combined, preliminary figure) with the manual gearbox, putting this engine in the running for best in class.

In addition there is the newly developed two-litre D3 producing 163 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 9.2 seconds (manual and automatic). Top speed is 220 km/h (manual) and 215 km/h (automatic).

The new five-cylinder D3 is in principle the same engine as the present 2.4D, but cylinder capacity has been reduced with a shorter stroke to optimise fuel consumption. With a manual gearbox, fuel consumption (EU Combined, preliminary figure) is now down to 5.2 l/100 km with a manual gearbox.

Both turbodiesels are available with six-speed automatic transmissions or a six-speed manual gearbox. The D5 can also be specified with all-wheel drive.

DRIVe diesel below 115 g/km

During the course of the first year of production, a DRIVe version of the all-new S60 will also be introduced, featuring a 1.6-litre diesel engine. Fuel consumption is 4.3 l/100 km (EU Combined, preliminary figure), corresponding to CO2 emissions below 115 g/km. The engine produces 115 hp and 270 Nm of torque, and will only be available with a six-speed manual gearbox.


Engine range from start of production

Petrol engines	Displacement	Configuration	Output	Torque
T6	3.0	6-cyl in-line	304 bhp	440 Nm
2.0T	2.0	4-cyl in-line	203 bhp	300 Nm
Diesel engines	Displacement	Configuration	Output	Torque
D5	2.4	5-cyl in-line	205 bhp	420 Nm
D3	2.0	5-cyl in-line	163 bhp	400 Nm

Engines added during first year of production:

Petrol engines	Displacement	Configuration	Output	Torque
T5	2.0	4-cyl in-line	240 bhp	320 Nm
T4	1.6	4 cyl in-line	180 bhp	240 Nm
T3	1.6	4-cyl in-line	150 bhp	240 Nm
Diesel engines	Displacement	Configuration	Output	Torque
1.6 D DRIVe	1.6	4-cyl in-line	115 bhp	270 Nm

New infotainment system - and world-class sound

The all-new S60 gets an all-new infotainment system where information from the audio unit, navigation system, mobile phone and other functions is presented on a five-inch or seven-inch colour screen in the upper part of the centre console. The screen is installed high to make it easy for the driver to keep his or her eyes on the road.

"We are one of the few manufacturers to give the driver access to all infotainment functions via controls in the steering wheel," says Tomas Ahlborg,

The audio experience in the all-new S60 has been enhanced compared with previous models.

One of the first car models with MultEQ

"Our most advanced system, Premium Sound, has a class-D digital 5x130W amplifier with circuits from Sweden's Anaview, Dolby Digital in combination with Dolby Pro Logic II Surround, the award-winning MultEQ from Audyssey Laboratories and 12 loudspeakers. All this creates an audio experience of absolute world class," says Tomas Ahlborg.

The Volvo S60 is one of the first car models in the world to use Audyssey Laboratories MultEQ technology, the standard for room equalization in the home and professional theatre markets. MultEQ removes distortion caused by the car cabin's acoustics, enabling crisp, clear sound with improved soundstage for everyone in the car.

In addition to the top-of-the line Premium Sound, the all-new S60 is available with a choice of three other audio systems.

Annual target 90,000 cars

The initial annual target for the all-new Volvo S60 is 90,000 cars. The customer base is spread unusually uniformly throughout the world. Europe (including Russia), North America and the rest of the world will each account for about one-third of total sales.

The all-new S60 is built at the Volvo Cars factory in Ghent, Belgium. The first cars will be delivered to customers in early summer 2010.

"Irrespective of whether the customers are in the USA, Europe or elsewhere in the world, they all prioritise the same characteristics. Now we are giving them an entirely new S60 that has a unique appeal to even the most discerning of buyers," says Stephen Odell.

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