VOLVO 4ever!

Volvo launches' green 'DRIVe series

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 10:48:00 PDT

Every day there is nowadays called yet another manufacturer who will know something more economical to do and today it is the turn of Volvo. The Sweden to launch the Mondial de l'Automobile in Paris' green ' 1.6D DRIVE series of the C30, S40 and V50.
Through a series of interventions Volvo knew the consumption of this medium, equipped with the 1.6 diesel of 110 horsepower, an average of about half a liter costs. For the S40 and V50 is the consumption 4.5 liter, for the C30 4.4 liters per 100 km.
With the consumption drops also CO2 emissions to 118 grams per kilometer for the S40 and V50 and 115 g / km for the C30. This is the last in Belgium now just inside the prices for a government rebate of 3% on the purchase price.

Many small things ...

The more favorable figures are the result of a whole series of interventions that any one group teaching, but overall the difference. For example, choosing a different oil for the gearbox in itself good for a fuel saving of 0.75% for example.
The other interventions that Volvo foresaw, mainly to do with better aerodynamics: lowered chassis, front and rear spoilers, wind deflector behind the radiator grille, 'Wind dense’ rims, ...
In addition Michelin tires come standard with low rolling resistance, altered ratios for third, fourth and fifth gear, a gear shift that helps you economical to drive, optimized engine management, improved cooling and power steering.

Extra price.

All Volvo diesels are equipped with a standard particle filter to own up to say 95 of all harmful particles blocking. Between all the 'hurrah-news' still a small false note: You will have to pay more. Depending on the market that 150 to 450 euros compared with the non DRIVe model.

Future SUV at the Volvo C30 base.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 09:59:00 PDT

In the range of Swedish company Volvo in 2010, may appear compact crossover on basis V30. According to the Dutch Auto Telegraaf, lightweight SUV, as the name, will be based on the platform hatchback Volvo C30, is also common for Mazda3 and Ford Focus. According to its characteristics, however, the novelty will be closer to the spacious family is universal, than to this SUV. New hatchback will be more in size and slightly surpass Audi A3 Sportback. Competition is V30 models such as the future BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz BLK and Audi Q3.

Thus Volvo V30 excellent fit in a future model range of Volvo, occupying an empty niche "below" V50, which recently passed a slight facelifting. However, according to the Dutch edition, V50 "live" recent years, and very soon it will replace the S60 is fully updated in the bodywork of touring.

According to the Auto Telegraaf, Volvo is going to issue one new model every year over the next three to four years. This year came a new XC60, and the next S60 sedan should debut next generation. It is envisaged that concept Volvo V30 show the general public at the upcoming motor show in Detroit, while the serial version will premiere at the Geneva autoshow in 2009.

Volvo will issue five-doors C30 and a few diesel models

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 05:49:00 PDT

Volvo is looking for exits with grave financial situation which has led to rumours of a possible sale of the Swedish brand. The company confirmed the information on the reduction of state employees in 2000 and the partial closure of production, but this is only part of a new strategy automakers, as stated Fredrik Arp, CEO of Volvo Cars.

To stay on the market with stiff competition and no less stringent restrictions on harmful emissions into the atmosphere, the company intends to present a series highly effective diesel models, as well as expand the range of new small Volvo cars. In an interview with the Swedish press Arp said that this year will see the light of three new diesel models developed primarily for countries with rapidly developing automotive markets such as China and Russia. One of the new Volvo compact cars will be five current version hatchback C30.
Early plans for the company anticipated release of more powerful and economical 2.0 - and 2.5 - liter turbo, who will present in 2009 in the new S60. In addition, Volvo will add to its line of new 8-staged transmission produced by German company ZF Getriebe GmbH.

While not known what it will be a models, but it can be assumed that one of them will be the smallest car brands - C30. At last year's motor show in Frankfurt, Volvo introduced the concept of cost-C30 Efficiency. The Company does not reported any information about whether this machine produced serially, but is likely to be. After all, this concept is equipped with a 1.6 liter turbo diesel engine with the fuel consumption of all 4.5 l/100 km

VOLVO C30 - Interior Design Award.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 10:51:00 PDT

Volvo C30 once again received an award from Ward’s AutoWorld magazine for the best interior design. Car earned Ward’s Interior Design Award for Best Brand Reflection. Last year, Ward’s called the Volvo S80 winner of the Best Interior Design of the Year Award.

According to Eric Mayne, Ward’s Editor of News Operations, “Marked by simplicity, grace and functionality, the C30’s interior exemplifies this heritage. They not only defy the industry convention that mass ensures comfort, they contribute to a futuristic ambience usually reserved for concept cars.”

Volvo interiors have always been ergonomically designed to put forward all the materials, which is reflected in the Scandinavian design: where form and function combine to be esthetically pleasing and easy to understand.

In a complicated world, Volvo brings a sense of harmony and peace to the daily grind of driving.

“With the C30, our goal was to bring a more youthful spirit and a refined Scandinavian flair to the interior,” Steve Mattin, SVP Design, Volvo Cars said. “We wanted the best of our cultural design heritage in this car. Our design vision was to create an interior that could only be branded Volvo. We shied away from chrome, kept controls intuitive without adding more buttons or switches and looked for ways to express our feeling about harmony and softness. Our center stack console has become a signature element for all Volvo car models. Its outline brings a natural rhythm and functionality expressed in clean lines and soft curves.”

Volvo’s legendary anatomically designed seats are upholstered in the unique T-Tec fabric specially developed for Volvo Cars and inspired by sportswear and modern travel accessories. T-Tec is soft, supple, elastic and comfortable. The contrast between T-Tec and textile - along with seams of a different, yet coordinating color - reinforces the dynamic appeal of the car.

“We are pushing the edge with materials, visual sensations and tactile feelings,” Steve Mattin said. “C30 is a reflection of our Scandinavian culture, feelings about our environment and our heritage.”

Volvo C30 Review on The New Driver's Seat.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 03:27:00 PDT

Excellent review VOLVO C30 on The New Driver’s Seat.

Particular highlights anatomical seats, premium acoustic system from Dynaudio.

Enjoy!

Volvo Will Offer More Small Models

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:28:00 PDT

AUTO MOTOR & SPORT (SWEDEN) had an interview with Volvo Cars environmental spokesperson Niklas Gustavsson. They talked about the environment and cars and he pointed out that Volvo is facing a tough challenge with trying to reach the EU's CO2 target and the Swedish politicians having a strange outlook on diesel. Mr. Gustavsson said they believed the diesel problems were solved with the particle filter, but the politicians still imposed a high tax on diesel. He said they would focus intensively on ethanol in Sweden, but maybe not as much in other countries. The EU's target is 120g CO2/km by 2012. Today Volvo has large cars with high CO2 emissions. He said the EU Commission classifies all of their ethanol-driven cars as petrol-driven, which gives them high CO2 emissions. This is one of the reasons why they are looking at the alternative to build more small cars even though it is not their niche.

When they talk about small cars that they imply? Maybe they talk about the VOLVO Tandem project? Or they talk about cars like Ford Fiesta?

By the way, look at the cover of the magazine. Is it true, and we will soon see the smallest VOLVO SUV - XC30? Or is this joke again, similar to Volvo V100?

And yet, want to believe that soon we will see new compact class VOLVO models!

VOLVO XC90 – SUV of the Year in Russia.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 11:18:00 PDT

In Moscow, held a ceremony of awarding participants of SUV of the YEAR. Volvo Cars received several prestigious awards in Russia in 2007 and to date in 2008. The most recent is for the Volvo XC90, which was crowned best crossover - "2008 SUV of the Year". This prestigious prize was established three years ago.

Under the terms of competition, the winners in each of the two nominations determine the composition of the jury: professional (journalists automotive publications and radio) and "Big Jury" - car lovers and off-road vehicles drivers.

"Big Jury" votes for nominees for four months, filling in questionnaires in car magazines, awards website and through sms. This high and objective appraisal allows the consumer to choose truly better. This year's contest was involved 101 car. Before the finals only 16 survived. Nevertheless, the sensation did not happen. The last three years in the category of "Full crossover" Swedes win. This time, Russian consumers also preferred the capacity, reliability and safety of Volvo XC90. Cars fans described it as the best SUV in the same year.

Volvo XC90 – crossover of Premium class, presented at the automobile market in various versions. Soon the Russian market will two new modifications: XC90 Sport and XC90 Ocean Race Edition. Thanks systems DSTC and RSC sideslip, skidding, the risk of overturning and other emergencies on the road virtually excluded. XC90 world holds several dozen awards, among them: "Best of Class SUV Premium", "The most stylish and functional car", "Best SUV of the year", the prize for achievement in ensuring traffic safety, decoration design and others.

I recall that in Russia, Volvo is the leader in sales in the Premium Cars segment.

VOLVO S80 – first generation.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 10:12:00 PDT

The Volvo S80 produced 1998 as the replacement for the rear-wheel drive Volvo 960/S90 sedan. This car has been built at the Torslanda Plant (Torslandaverken) in Gothenburg, Sweden. S80, unlike almost all other Volvo models, did not have a station wagon version for its first generation. Now, the third generation V70 wagon is marketed as the estate version for the second generation S80 sedan.

Since its debut S80 was notable for being one of the first Volvos to depart from the company’s boxy styling idiom that dated to the inception of the Volvo 140 Series. The S80’s styling, with its pronounced beltline and tail light configuration has been adopted throughout the Volvo line, for example on S60 and S40 sedans.
This car had one of the world’s highest crash test ratings in the world for over 5 years. The second generation Volvo S80 in June of 2007 exelent scored in the IIHS crash test performance for frontal, side and rear impacts .

S80 is based on the Volvo P2 platform. More than 368,000 first generation S80s were built before the introduction of the second generation model.

This sedan being Volvo’s flagship model was seriously equipped with wide range of safety systems to ensure all occupants safety, including SIPS and WHIPS.

The S80 was also known three firsts for passenger cars:

The first was the use of a built-in, fully integrated GSM phone, complete with both a hands free function and a lift-up hand-set.
The second was the fitment of the straight six engine in a transverse mounting. Volvo claims to be the first manufacturer to succeed in mass producing this configuration (in modern time). No existing manual gearbox would fit in the engine bay with the six cylinder engine, so Volvo had to develop their own, claimed to be the world’s smallest manual gearbox, the M65. The previous record holder was also a Volvo gearbox, the M56 developed to fit the wide 5 cylinder transverse engine first used in the 850 series cars.
Thirdly, the S80 was the world’s first car with an environmental specification, covering aspects such as those directly relating to the car such as allergens from textiles and fuel economy and the life cycle of the car from production to dismantling.

The first generation of VOLVO S80 was a major step forward into the age of modern car design, particularly with the use of multiplex wiring.

The S80 was initially available with 4 different engines. Starting the range was a detuned 2.4-litre 140 hp 5-cylinder. This was also available as a CNG and as an LPG version. The fully tuned version produced 170 hp(125 kW). Next up was a 2.9 L 196 hp(144 kw) 6-cylinder, then 272 hp(200 kW) T6 and finally, the 140 hp(102 kW) 2.5 L TDI (diesel). The 2.9 has a Straight-6 engine while the T6 was powered by a destroked twin-turbocharged version. In 2000 there was the addition of the 200 hp (149 kw) 2.5T, available with standard all-wheel drive. The 2.5T model featured a light-pressure turbocharger. Late 2001 introduced the 163 hp(120 kW) 5 cylinder common rail diesel D5, detuned to 130 hp(96 kW) and sold as 2.4D in some markets.

Top Gear - Volvo XC90 vs Audi Q7

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 10:05:00 PDT

Great SUV's competition!

Somewhere in America

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 09:52:00 PDT

Forthcoming elections!

Some rumors from VOLVO.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 09:43:00 PDT

High oil prices and problems with the environment force automakers to take retaliatory measures. Naturally, Volvo is not aloof from these efforts.

Last week, the network leaked some rumors of new projects by Volvo. They say that in autumn 2009, the company will present V70, that emits only 119g CO2/km.

Also refers to the work on a new turbocharged light engine on E85 fuel.

Finally, mention super optimised C30 1.6D that will only emit 104g/km!

Many analysts says that Volvo vain ceased production vehicles for gas operations in 2006. Volvo said that could re-start their production. In my opinion, now a very opportune moment for this!

VOLVO V70 video.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 18:55:00 PDT

Brightcove about new VOLVO V70:

‘The all-new V70 model offers more of everything; it is more luxurious inside than its predecessor, it is sportier to drive, offers more space for both passengers and luggage, and it integrates a variety of intelligent solutions for flexible usage.’

Great promo-video, isn’t it?

BMW 325i Cabrio vs. Volvo C70 T5 vs. VW EOS V6

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 05:42:00 PDT

Some comments:

Digi20

well, choice is easy:
for sport, take the bmw (if possbile with a more tourque engine than 325i)
for cruising, take the volvo (seats are awesome comfy, the D5 diesel fits very well)
and for a mix of both, take the vw (also the cheapest).
i would take the volvo :) and i am no granny ;)

britsrus

ive had both and got to say the volvo was most comfortable, cant stand bmw seats nor the drive

uggy27

Volvo C70 is far better trust me my buddy works at bmw

New type hydrogen tank.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:50:00 PDT

It is no secret that oil prices are forcing automakers to seek alternative fuels. Recently, Volvo experiment with FlexyFuel engines (engines working on a mix of gasoline and alcohol). And in this direction the company has achieved considerable success. Suffice it to say on serially produced 1.8F and 2.5FT motors.

BMW goes another way. They are experimenting with hydrogen engines. These engines have a very high efficiency. The problem is that hydrogen must be stored in compressed form. And here in this area has been a big breakthrough.

There is developing a light weight tank for liquid hydrogen put an important step in making hydrogen cars available on a larger scale. The lighter and more compact tanks could easily be built into cars and doubling the minimum range. This says BMW's research department BMW Forschung und Technik.

The new tank weighs only a third of a hydrogen tank of the current generation. This is because the tank of a new composite was created. In addition, the auxiliary integrated into the tank, bringing the total package less space in the auto. BMW estimates the range of cars with the new hydrogen tanks, which can contain 10 kg of H2, at 500 kilometers. That is more than double what the BMW 7 H2 today fetches (200 km).

The storage of liquid hydrogen requires a special technique because hydrogen only under the -253 ° C liquid. The tank should be a kind of super-thermos in which the temperature as low as possible.

Even with super-insulation that temperature ever goes back up, which makes hydrogen back into gas. That may be a problem if the car stay for several days without movement. To avoid the pressure continues to rise, that too should be removed in the form of pure water. In the current generation of hydrogen tanks who used in his BMW 7-series H2, you will tank after about 17 days standstill as well as back empty.

For the new tanks German car manufacturer has collaborated, among other things, with the Volvo, PSA and Ford. In total there are 34 partners. The project has cost 18.7 million euros. The European Union has it paid 10.7 million euros.

Well, perhaps soon we will see these developments as well in the new Volvo models.

Volvo S80: Roadlook TV review

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 07:52:00 PDT

Excellent promovideo of all the new generation Volvo S80 with 8 cylinder petrol engine. Do not stop watching before ending!
That's amazing! :)

VOLVO for love!

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 10:52:00 PDT

Perhaps the author was mistaken - shrewd reader will ask. VOLVO for life - that's the correct slogan! But wait a bit, let me explain everything.

SYDNEY, Australia — Volvo Car Australia is claiming to be the first automaker to use speed dating as a way of selling its products.

Volvo Car Australia is employing an unusual tactic together with dating specialist Fast Impressions - speed dating in Volvos! In March, twenty of Sydney's sexy singletons were offered the unique opportunity to participate in Australia's first 'test drive dating' event.

The participants were chauffeured driven in Volvos to a dealership and given eight minutes in the front seats of Volvo's range of models to meet their perfect match. After the speed dating event, the guests were taken to a bar in Sydney to party at an exclusive Fast Impressions event with hundreds of other singles.

"To the best of our knowledge this is a world-first. It gives us an opportunity to create a buzz around the brand by promoting our cars in an unconventional way," said Matt Braid, marketing director, Volvo Car Australia.

The photograph above shows Craig Spence, 32, and Gina Carmody, 29. They were two of the participants in the unconventional high-speed dating service.
"Talking about Volvo was a good way to get the conversation going," says Craig Spence.

Although Gina Carmody didn't know a thing about cars before the event, she admitted that her attitude to cars had changed as a result of her unusual dating venture.

Volvo Australia and Fast Impressions will consider expanding the 'Test Drive Dating' events to more locations around Sydney and Melbourne in the near future.

During this event VOLVO used sport C30 and C70-cabrio.

V100 - new VOLVO model?

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:24:00 PDT

Will Volvo with a sequel to the V90? Or will they introduce a new name?

One thing is certain, there have been rumors about a completely new model above the S80 and XC90 will be positioned. Will be the next model a 7-seater (it's so hot now)?

There is a new impression of a V100 in the Swedish Teknikens Värld (number 12 / 2008).The photoshop does not really professional, but the idea is very cool.
What concerns me is this "crossover" a better alternative than any XC100. SUV's, there are now enough and it would be good if Volvo stand for an original with a huge station wagon. That of course also fits better in the history of the brand.

Volvo showed the VCC Concept Car at the AutoRAI of 2005. Let us hope that this is still a basis for a future flagship of the Swedish brand!

Volvo introduces Driver Support Line

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Fri, 30 May 2008 09:47:00 PDT

Volvo Cars Netherlands introduces the Driver Support Line: a package of options that piece by piece help Volvo 's driver to be better. The package consists of Adaptive Cruise Control with Distance Alert Collision Warning with Automotive Brake, Driver Alert with Lane Departure Warning and the Blind Spot Information System. The Driver Support Line is available on the XC60, V70, S80 and XC70.

In 1927, the founders of Volvo, Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson said: "Cars are driven by people. Therefore, the safety guide for everything we do at Volvo. " Since then, Volvo Cars has introduced a large number of revolutionary technologies . It is the interaction between the various safety systems and functions that determines how safe a car is not the components separately. Volvo safety is the result of a complete, integrated solution. Volvo's Driver Support Line combines the latest preventive safety features that Volvo Cars currently has to offer.

Driver stand central.

At Volvo Cars is the development of security solutions based on three main aspects: the car, traffic and humans. The driver must be alert to and able to be in a stressful situation to a quick decision. But that is often easier said than done. Hence, the development at Volvo aims to help the driver. It focuses on technology that helps the driver in critical situations and to avoid collisions. Road traffic accidents should not be regarded as inevitable. With the right technology can be the driver needed help to prevent accidents.

Driver Alert Control: unique technology that warns drivers from tired or inadvertently. This system will keep the driving of the car between the road markings in the eye and warns the driver when detected the erratic driving patterns or slightly uncontrolled. The driver is in this way already warned well before his/her eyelids begin to be heavy, but also in cases where the driver is distracted by other factors, such as during a telephone conversation.

Lane Departure Warning (LDW): warns the driver with a subtle sound when the car cross without apparent reason - for example, without the direction lights is set - a road marking. This feature helps to prevent unilateral accidents, (vehicle get off the road) , but also arising frontal collisions from a secondary driver.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): an adaptive cruise control that uses radar sensor to maintain distance permanently. It automatically adjusting the vehicle speed and distance to that of a target vehicle. ACC uses a long range radar sensor to detect a target vehicle up to 200 meters in front and automatically adjusts the ACC vehicle speed and gap accordingly. ACC automatically decelerates or accelerates the vehicle according to the desired speed and distance settings established by the driver. As per standard cruise control the driver can override the system at any time.

Distance Alert help driver to keep a proper distance to the car in front of his/her even if the ACC function is off. If hi/she get too close to the car in front of, the system alert driver with a red light in the lower part of the windscreen. Distance Alert will not brake the car like the ACC does.
Distance Alert is activated via a button on the centre console and supports in speeds above 65 km/h. If Distance Alert is active and ACC is turned on, the Distance Alert will be automatically and temporarily disengaged.

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) : helps detect vehicles moving in the 'dead corner' of the exterior are. A warning to the exterior lights to the driver's attention to the vehicle in the blind spot.

Auto Collision Warning with Brake (CWAB): when the driver and another vehicle approaching from the rear without responding, a flashing red lamp projected on the windshield and sounds an audible noise at the same time. This will allow the driver to react, leaving him/her in most cases out of a collision may occur. If the driver doesn't brake and the sensor system determines that a collision is imminent, the brakes are activated. Auto Brake is designed to lower the impact speed as much as possible and thereby reduce the risk of injury to the occupants of both vehicles.

The new Volvo XC60 is also equipped with City Safety - one by Volvo Cars in-house developed technology to prevent collisions at low speed in the city and / or the heavy traffic. When the driver back of his clash threatens to maintain and not timely respond, the car brakes itself. With City Safety and the recently introduced Collision Warning with Automotive Brake Volvo Cars has now systems that can slow down the car at any speed automatically. City Safety is not currently available on the V70, XC70 and S80. The additional cost of Driver Support Line is € 2,850.

VOLVO plans to sell C30 in India

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Fri, 30 May 2008 02:43:00 PDT

In accordance with http://www.cartradeindia.com/ , Volvo plans to sell C30 in India.

Quote: 'According to the Managing Director of Volvo Car India, Paul de Voijs, the company shall be launching overall 6 models in India. It shall introduce V50 and V70 stations wagons along with C30, X60, XC70, and C70 which is a 2-door convertible.'

Volvo is going to sell up to 500 cars in the first year, then more sales.

Does the company wants to repeat in India its success in Russia and China?

S80 - first sneezesfree car ever!

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Fri, 30 May 2008 01:44:00 PDT

Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association certified Volvo S80 as a car that meets its high standards.

From http://www.motherproof.com/ : 'Well, at least that’s true for those of us without a Volvo. Volvo’s S80 was the first-ever car to meet the Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association’s standards. Folks with a Volvo can surround themselves in an environment that eliminates allergens, using a cabin filtration system that prevents dust, particulates and pollen from entering the cabin through the ventilation system. Volvo also offers an interior air quality system that monitors the amount of carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide that enters the car. According to Volvo, this happens in dense city driving, on switchbacks and in tunnels.'

Another yet:'Volvo says it uses a “combined filter with an activated carbon element [that] protects the occupants from virtually all unpleasant odors caused, for example, by exhaust fumes, washer fluid and oil. The combined filter also reduces occupant exposure to gases such as nitrogen oxides, ground-level ozone and hydrocarbons.” Lastly, Volvo interiors are Oeko-Tex 100 certified, which means all the interior materials (like the fabric, leather, wood — even the seat belts) are made using environmentally friendly materials and processes. For all of us allergy sufferers who have days where we really would like to live in a bubble, an S80 sure sounds like a nice option.'

Source: http://www.motherproof.com/2008/05/can-volvo-take.html

By the way, Interior Air Quality System (IAQS), installed not only in the high Volvo models. This system can be optional ordered and for junior models (C30, S40, V50).

BLIS - useful safety feature or just another way to spend your money?

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Thu, 29 May 2008 11:30:00 PDT

Everyone knows that Volvo has a reputation as the safest car manufacturer. Many safety systems were presented by the company, and many of them have become standard in modern automotive.

Volvo is the first automaker to offer car buyers a high-tech solution to help avoid the risk of collisions caused by mirrors blind spots with its new safety system - BLIS (Blind Spot Information System). This system was first announced in 2001. Later it was introduced in the S80 sedan.

Blind Spot Information System by VOLVO

This system works as follows. BLIS uses an intelligent digital camera system incorporated into both door mirrors that constantly monitors the area alongside the car for cars or motorbikes, then alerts the driver via an orange light housed in the car's A-pillar by the door mirror. BLIS also works after dark, when it will react to the headlamps of any surrounding vehicles. Volvo believes the additional visual information BLIS relays to the driver before changing lanes or overtaking in busy urban environments or on multi-lane highways, will prove particularly useful.

Digital camera incorporated into door mirror.

The BLIS does not relieve the driver of his or her obligation and responsibility to do the usual visual checks before attempting any manoeuvring, but does afford frequent motorway users or city drivers an added level of protection against vehicles hovering in the periphery of the driver’s field of vision. While a dash mounted button can be used to temporarily switch the safety aid off, if required, BLIS is capable of making the distinction between mobile and immobile objects such as parked cars, road barriers, lampposts and other static objects, ensuring all alerts are limited to potentially hazardous moving obstacles.

Is the Blind Spot Information System something unique? Already not. The Mercedes-Benz company introduced a new safety system, which very soon will be offered as an option for models S-Class and CL-Class. According to the site Motorauthority , this system was called 'Blind Spot Assist'. According to the publication, Blind Spot Assist will oversee space at the rear and side car by six special sensors installed front and rear of the vehicle. According to Mercedes, a system may notice any transport, which is in the 'blind spot'. When radar detects activity in the zone of their actions, Blind Spot Assist will notify the driver visual and sound signals.

Blind Spot Assist by Mercedes-Benz

These data indicate that not only Volvo Cars safety specialists realize danger exist in the 'blind spots'. However, Volvo specialists have developed optical-electronic system that has a much more reliable than others.

Thus, I can confidently assert that BLIS is absolutely essential in today's busy traffic. I can only regret that this system is still optional, but not standard on all Volvo models.I hope that soon it is destined, as well as other developments in auto safety by Volvo, firmly enter into our daily lives.

In continuation you can watch a small video explaining the work of BLIS.

Read more:
Volvo tips for safe driving this summer.
VOLVO City Safety - the unique system of preventing low-speed collision
VOLVO safety features

Volvo tips for safe driving this summer.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Thu, 29 May 2008 09:53:00 PDT

Summer vacations season approach.Many families go on vacation by car with children. The trip can be a long and tedious. And children are much more difficult than adults to carry it.

Volvo Cars North American branch issued a compilation of tips for safe traveling by car with children.

"A distracted driver is far more likely to end up in or cause an accident," said Bruno DiGennaro, Volvo senior safety expert. "Oftentimes driver distractions come from young, backseat passengers. Talk with your kids about safe riding practices before hitting the roads this summer. You'll help keep everyone on your road trip out of harm's way."

In addition to putting small children and infants in car seats properly, there are other things parents can do to keep children safe in the car. Volvo offers these tips for riding safely:

Limit the noisemakers. Parents are more and more turning to "road trip babysitters" such as Game Boys, portable DVD players and iPods to keep their kids happy and busy on long trips and when traffic gets bad. Practice moderation with this in your car. Set rules around wearing head phones or only having one thing playing at a time. The beeps and tones that these machines make can be block out the sounds of a beeping horn or even an oncoming emergency vehicle's siren.

Pack low. See more. When the trunk or hatch gets full with bags and coolers, kids tend to squeeze stuff on to the back shelf of the car or pile their hatch area right up to the ceiling of the car. This can take away some key sight lines. At every stop, take an inventory of what has crept into these sight lines and take 30 seconds to repack your stuff before you get back on the road.

Stick together. Sometimes on road trips, it can be as dangerous out of the car as it is in the car. Rest stops, restaurants and gas stations that your family has never been to before pose risks such as not knowing when and where to look for oncoming cars. Unfortunately, public places on the open road can also be hangouts for people preying on young kids. Never send a child under 18 to a restroom by him or herself. Form teams of at least two to head inside. As alert as you are on the road, be equally as alert when you make stops.

Avoid rival sibling arguments. Let's face it, kids that have to sit in cars for a longer time than they are used to alongside their brother or sister may pick a fight with their sibling. These family moments can be dangerous to parents behind the wheel because their instincts tell them to break up the fight just as they would if they were in their living room. Stern warnings to riders about fighting in the car need to be made crystal clear before you put the car in drive. If things get really out of hand, pull over and deal with the situation on the side of the road or at a gas station.

Keep the car seat safe for your youngest passengers. The best car seat is the one that fits your child properly, is easy to use and fits in your vehicle correctly. Install the car seat in the vehicle's backseat. Infants under 20 pounds or younger than one year old, should ride in a rear facing car seat. Check to see that the safety belt holds the seat tightly in place and make sure the harness is buckled snugly around your child. Some new cars, including Volvo's, now offer integrated car seats. Visit http://www.volvocars.com/us/experience/Pages/safety.aspx to learn more about child safety in cars. At http://www.nhtsa.gov you can find ease of use ratings for child seats on the market today.

Never leave your child alone in car. Young children can overheat quickly in a warm car. Older children can loosen their seat belt, climb into the driver's seat, figure out how to undo the parking brake and potentially cause an accident.

Keep small toys in check. Children may get upset and throw their small toys at you, potentially causing you to lose control of the car and cause an accident.

Engage kids in ride safe ideas. Kids have great ideas and they are more likely to own them if they come up with them. Ask each kid rider to come up with their idea to keep their family safe on their road trip.

SOURCE  Volvo Cars of North America

VOLVO C30 R-design on New York Auto Show.

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Thu, 29 May 2008 04:16:00 PDT

Awesome overview of VOLVO C30 R-design on New York Auto Show 2008:http://www.nioz.net/volvo/new-york-2008-volvo-c30-r-design-is-r-some.html Quote: 'The easiest way to spot the special Swedish hatches will be the metallic mirror housings, grille and grille crossbar. There’s also a subtle R-Design badge affixed to the grille to identify the car as something just a little special. Special paint colors will also set off the R-Design cars, and the body kit-equipped car we photographed shined resplendently in Black Sapphire. Interior changes consist of blue-faced gauges like the actual high-performance S60R (RIP) and R-Design logos embossed into the leather inserts on the seats and metal accent bits around the cabin. The R-Design cars are more style than substance, but the exclusivity will be of value to buyers who like to have something special, and the T5 powertrain that all U.S.-bound C30s carry offers snappy performance already.'

Some photo's:

Customize u C30 with new applique films!

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Wed, 28 May 2008 01:44:00 PDT

Of course, you've heard about it! Volvo enables buyers to the new C30 personalize its new toy. This is done through sticking special film on the bodywork panels of their cars. There are polka dots, clouds or simply a rainbow, Volvo lets you customize your car in order to make it unique. A huge number of design available.

Just visit a http://www.volvoc30.se to look at all this diversity!

How unfortunate this option is available only to Swedish C30-buyers !

In continuation watch this amazing video, how they do that:

Taken here.

Product: Volvo C30
Agency: Forsman & Bodenfors
Art Director: Silla Levin
Copywriter: Anna qvennerstedt
Agency Producer: charlotte most
Producer: Rickard Edholm
Director: Mattias Montero
Prod. Co.: Social Club
Country: Sweden

VOLVO City Safety - the unique system of preventing low-speed collision

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Tue, 27 May 2008 08:36:00 PDT

The Volvo Cars Co is widely known for its constant efforts to create safe vehicles.Here you can find a list of company's development, many of which have become standard for auto safety.But Volvo does not stop and in its new model - XC60 - presented yet another innovative solution. So today we'll talk about City Safety system. What is City Safety system? This is a unique technology developed by engineers Volvo, which let to avoid collisions at low speeds in city traffic.Today car from Volvo, equipped with the City Safety system, combined with recently developed Collision Warning with Auto Brake, can produce automatic braking at any speed. Volvo sets first among automakers City Safety security system as standard equipment on the serial car. Volvo XC60 will be available on the market already this year, and this will be the first car Volvo with the new security system as standard.

According to research 75% of all reported collisions occur at speeds of up to 30 km/h. In 50% of drivers do not apply braking at all, that is usually explained by the loss of attention by the driver.In such cases, City Safety technology could radically change the situation. This system automatically carries out the braking, if the driver approaches the vehicle ahead of the ongoing and does not respond to a dangerous convergence. Thus, the clashes can be avoided. If you still can not completely avoid the rear, the system will help reduce the maximum extent of damage to cars and injury of people.

Benefits for all! Volvo car equipped with the City Safety system, provides benefits as for Volvo рpassengers, as for people who are sitting in the front car:

Protecting people in the ahead car. The best protection for all involved parties - is preventing a collision. Availability of City Safety system makes it possible. However, in cases where it is impossible to completely avoid the collision, City Safety helps to reduce force of impact. As a result, people sitting in front car, can avoid injuries, especially unpleasant such as whiplash injury.
Protection of people in the Volvo. Collision into the back of car’s ahead can cause as corporal, and emotional trauma. By lowering speeds of up to the moment of collision, the system City Safety reduces the risk of damage to people, the car could stop completely.
Reducing costs. Collision even on a small speed could have serious costs also have to spend a lot of time to recover vehicles. City Safety System helps the car owner to reduce the loss of time required for delivery vehicles in the repair and adjustment of payment through insurance companies. In addition, Volvo is currently holding consultations with insurance companies to reduce insurance premiums for owners of vehicles equipped with the system City Safety.

Laser sensor monitoring the situation ahead of the car. The system continuously monitors traffic ahead with the help of a laser sensor, built at the top of the windscreen at the height of the rear mirror of internal review. The sensor tracks the movement of vehicles and other facilities located in front of up to 10 meters from the front bumper car.

The system programmed in such a way as to observe whether the vehicle ahead is in stop position or moving in the same direction.

Using data on the distance to an object ahead and parameters speed of the car, the system calculates 50 times per second to determine what braking speed is needed to prevent collision. If the parameters of design braking speed exceeded, and the driver does not respond to danger, the system instantly determines the likelihood of collision. The City Safety system helps avoid or minimize the effects of collision, using the braking system for emergency braking and reducing revolutions of the engine. At the same time, activated stop, warning about sudden stop drivers from behind.

And in conclusion, watch the video explaining how the City Safety system works:

I hope the City Safety system will become standard in all future VOLVO models .