Cars, Car Insurance, Auto Purchase

Volvo XC70 Surf Rescue Concept
It’s only fitting that a SEMA concept car from Volvo be focused on safety. It’s a natural fit. Yet 2007 marks the first year that Volvo has built a SEMA vehicle with a specific safety theme: enter the Volvo XC70 Surf Rescue (SR). Inspired by the surf rescue vehicles rolling up and down the Southern California beaches, the XC70 SR embodies Volvo’s core value of protecting life in a bold and eye-catching concept that will make its world debut at this year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association tradeshow.

As with every SEMA concept from Volvo, all of the XC70 SR’s standard safety equipment is intact and functioning. The 2008 Volvo XC70 is all new and incorporates the leading edge of passive and preventative safety systems.

“We developed the all-new XC70 with the goal that it should be the safest vehicle in its segment,” says Ingrid Skogsmo, Director of Volvo Cars Safety Center. “The XC70 model shares the same sophisticated network of interacting safety systems as the all-new Volvo S80. The patented body structure absorbs energy in a highly efficient way. And the interior safety system includes the latest generation of side airbags and whiplash protection. Furthermore, we are introducing a world innovation in the field of child safety.”

In a true demonstration of versatility of the family/adventure XC70, Volvo combines a height-adjustable integrated booster cushion - a world’s first - with an extended inflatable curtain to provide the industry’s best passenger safety system for precious cargo in the rear seat.

Safety innovations do not end there. The latest technological updates include a new, stronger side structure to optimize side-impact protection, not only for children but for all occupants. The body’s entire side structure is both stronger and lighter thanks to a well-balanced combination of high-tensile steel of different grades.

In addition, a new type of side-impact airbag - first seen in the all-new S80 model - refines Volvo’s patented SIPS (Side Impact Protection System) into an even more effective safety system. The new side-impact airbags have two separate chambers, one for the hip section and one for the chest. Since the hips can withstand greater force than the chest, the lower chamber inflates with up to five times more pressure than the upper section. The side-impact airbags interact with the inflatable curtains and the body’s network of safety beams to provide the most effective protection.

Volvo’s system for avoiding neck injuries - WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) - is one of the most effective on the market. In the event of a rear-end collision, the front seat backrest accompanies the passenger’s initial body movement and dampens the incoming force rather like one’s hand does when catching a ball. The all-new XC70 features the next generation of WHIPS mechanism, further developed to ensure that the damping motion is gentle and to provide good contact between the head and head restraint throughout the impact sequence.

With the high ground clearance of the all-new XC70, there are relatively high-positioned bumpers which may create a greater risk of damage to an oncoming passenger car with lower positioned bumpers. To reduce the risk of injury in a collision, the front suspension sub-frame is supplemented with a lower cross-member positioned at the height of the bumper in a conventional car. This lower beam is integrated into the XC70’s structure and is neatly concealed behind the spoiler. In a collision, the lower cross-member is aimed to strike the oncoming car’s protective structure, activating its crumple zone as intended so the occupants can be given the maximum level of protection.

Protection for pedestrians and cyclists has also been further developed in the all-new XC70. The front has been given energy-absorbing properties, not least with a generously dimensioned soft structure in front of the bumper that helps reduce the risk of leg injuries. In addition, the spoiler’s lower edge has been reinforced and moved forward, almost on a level with the bumper. The aim is that the area of contact on pedestrians or cyclists should be distributed across a larger area, thus helping to further reduce the risk of injury. The hood lines are raised and a honeycomb structure underneath spreads the load in the event of an impact, thus helping to absorb the energy and reduce the risk of personal injury.

Further protecting the driver and passengers inside the all-new XC70 is the collapsible steering column which, upon deformation, moves horizontally for the best possible interaction with the airbag; pedals that functionally limit the risk of penetration into the passenger compartment; airbags with two-stage function; seat belt pre-tensioners and belt reminders for all five seats; force limiters for the front seat belts; reinforced, transversely fitted tubular beam between the A-posts; strong SIPS tubes in the seats and a sturdy magnesium bracket in the middle of the vehicle; diagonally fitted beams of Ultra High Strength Steel in the doors; and, as with all Volvo cars, a compact transversely mounted engine.

“The best way to protect the vehicle’s occupants is to avoid accidents,” says Skogsmo. “That’s why we’ve developed a number of advanced driving and support systems that interact intelligently to assist the driver in difficult situations, yet without taking over the driving itself or taking over responsibility for safe progress. The task is to assist the driver to take the right decisions, by alerting him or her and in various ways indicating how best to get out of the situation.”

In order to help the driver stay a safe distance behind the vehicle in front, Volvo has developed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). This system should be primarily regarded as a comfort function but it does also contribute to more controlled progress if the rhythm of traffic is uneven.

The technology also is used as a basis for several of Volvo’s advanced driving and support systems. Using a radar sensor, the adaptive cruise control continually monitors the gap to the vehicles in front and automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to ensure that this gap does not shrink too much. The driver activates the cruise control by setting a desired speed between 18 and 124 mph and then selecting the minimum time gap to the vehicles in front. There are five different time gaps to choose between.

Rear-end collisions are a common type of accident. In many of these cases, the reason is that the driver is distracted and fails to respond in time. Against this background, Volvo has developed a system known as Collision Warning with Brake Support. The area in front of the vehicle is continuously monitored with the help of a radar sensor. If the all-new XC70 approaches another vehicle from the rear and the driver does not react, a red warning light flashes in the windscreen. At the same time, a warning buzzer sounds. In certain situations, this is enough for the driver to respond and take action to avoid the danger.

If the risk of a collision increases despite the warning, the brake support system is activated. In order to shorten the reaction time, the brakes are prepared for action by automatic application of the pads against the discs. In addition, brake pressure is amplified hydraulically which results in good braking effect even if the driver does not press particularly hard on the brake pedal.

“If the road speed is not too high, brake support helps reduce the consequences of a collision,” says Skogsmo. “However, it is always the driver’s reactions that are crucial to the outcome.”

To help drivers maintain better control over the driving situation, the all-new XC70 is equipped with BLIS (Blind Spot Information System). Using cameras integrated into the door mirrors, BLIS registers whether another vehicle is in the blind spot offset to the rear. If there is a vehicle there, a light illuminates at the relevant mirror to alert the driver and increase his or her chance of making the appropriate decision.

The all-new XC70 has a highly advanced braking system with a number of functions that interact to ensure the shortest possible braking distance under all circumstances. They include Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), a new generation of Volvo’s emergency braking support system that utilizes both vacuum and hydraulic reinforcement to help the driver brake in the shortest possible distance in a panic situation; Optimized Hydraulic Brakes (OHB) to reinforce deceleration under hard braking by compensating for low vacuum pressure in the brake servo; Ready Alert Brakes (RAB) that can predict rapid braking and apply the brake pads against the discs even before the driver has time to press the brake pedal; and Fading Brake Support (FBS) that utilizes hydraulics to gradually build up braking pressure during long hard braking, thus helping cut the risk of brake fade and maintaining pedal feel.

In order to contribute to the best possible visibility during night-time driving on curving and twisting roads, the all-new XC70 can be equipped with Active Bi-Xenon Lights — swiveling headlights that follow the sweeps and bends of the road. A mini-processor is used to calculate and analyze a number of parameters and optimize the light beam to suit the situation. The headlights can be swiveled up to 15 degrees in either direction. In order to save wear and tear on the system, it is automatically deactivated in daylight conditions.

In an increasingly insecure world, control is important even when the vehicle is parked. As a matter of theft-prevention and avoiding situations that may involve personal risks, Volvo’s Personal Car Communicator (PCC) provides information aimed at security and safety. This advanced pocket-sized control center can tell the owner if the vehicle is locked or unlocked, and if the alarm has been triggered. In the case of the alarm having been triggered, PCC will indicate whether someone is inside the vehicle via a highly sensitive heartbeat sensor and an advanced calculation process.

Furthering security, the all-new XC70 can be specified with laminated glass in all the windows, including the rear side windows and the tailgate, making break-ins more difficult. This means that the luggage compartment also gets effective protection. The rear storage system under the luggage compartment floor has a capacity of more than 1.62 cubic feet (without spare wheel), and it is now lockable. It is locked automatically and conveniently when the tailgate is closed and locked.

The all-new XC70 packages both security and convenience with its optional power-operated tailgate. With the press a button on the remote control, complete access to the storage area occurs courtesy of the vehicle’s hydraulics. In order to reduce the risk of accidentally squashing one’s hands or fingers, it is closed from the panel on the tailgate itself. In addition, a dual-stage safety function is integrated into the tailgate, involving a pinch protection molding on each side and an emergency stop. The hydraulic system is equipped with a force sensor, stopping immediately if it senses an obstruction during operation.

Volvo Heico S80 SEMA Concept
The lights of Las Vegas reflect flawlessly in the gleaming aluminum paint of the Heico Sportiv S80 T6 High Performance Concept (HPC). Being shown for the first time in North America at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association tradeshow in Las Vegas, NV, the S80 T6 HPC is a literal reflection of power, sophistication and athleticism as can be seen in its unique 7-layer “aluminum effect” body paint. But the S80 T6 HPC is more than just a pretty face. It’s a true example that a powerful luxury sedan can also be sensitive to the environment.

“Heico Sportiv is honored to once again be working with Volvo Cars to build the exciting S80 T6 HPC for this year’s SEMA show,” said Holger Hedtke, President of Heico. The 2007 show marks the second year Heico Sportiv has partnered with Volvo Cars to create a SEMA concept. This year, Heico shows its mettle with the S80 T6 HPC and the C30 Surf Pattern (see separate release). “The S80 T6 HPC is really where we put all our efforts this year,” continued Hedtke, “It is our most advance concept to date and it’s one that Heico is extremely proud of.”

But getting to Las Vegas wasn’t easy. The project began as the curtain fell on last year’s SEMA show. Behind closed doors Heico executives sat down to put to paper the 2007 concept. The result is a Volvo S80 T6 that has been tuned to an amazing 350-horsepower while running on bioethanol fuel.

When the S80 arrived at Heico’s shop in Weiterstadt, Germany in early 2007, Holger and his team knew they had their work cut out for them. The S80 began life with a 3.2-liter inline-six engine and front-wheel drive because production had yet to begin on the Volvo S80 T6, which has standard all-wheel drive. A new T6 engine was delivered from Sweden and work began in earnest.

Performance

The first order of business was to make a significant increase in horsepower. The standard Volvo T6 engine produces 281 horsepower, which is enough to move the S80 with spirited ease. But this is a SEMA concept and a significant bump in horsepower and torque were a necessity. Once the engine was modified to run on E85 ethenol, Heico turned its attention to maximizing power with high-performance engine software, a new intercooler and a stainless steel racing exhaust system. The end results were impressive: 350 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 405 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. The Heico S80 T6 HPC is estimated to reach 62 mph in just 5.8 seconds.

But getting that power to the ground required extensive work. As the standard S80 3.2 is a front-wheel-drive car it was determined that to truly explore the vehicle’s potential all-wheel drive was needed. Enter Volvo’s renowned Haldex All-Wheel-Drive system with Instant Traction. The system continuously routes power to whichever wheel has the most traction and Heico modified it with heartier gears to handle the enormous amount of torque.

Stopping power is provided via a 6-piston braking system with custom blue-painted calipers and high performance brake pads. Volvo’s ABS and electronic brake distribution systems are fully functioning. Large 13.9-inch disc brakes reside in custom forged alloy wheels measuring 9-inches wide and 20 inches in diameter. The specially developed Volution X wheels are wrapped in aggressive 255/30R-20 Continental tires.

The Heico S80 T6 HPC rides on a chassis that is 1.5 inches lower than Volvo’s set ride height and the sport-tuned suspension features firmer springs and struts at all four corners. “We aimed to tune all the components to achieve a dynamic yet harmonious ride. In other words, a true sports car experience without losing the luxurious and comfortable touch that is the hallmark of the Volvo S80,” noted Hedtke.

Interior

Hedtke’s comments about the S80 T6 HPC’s ride and handling translate directly to the interior of the car. “It was important to communicate the intention of this car as a true sports car, but one that is also luxurious and comfortable,” said Hedtke. Starting from the standard S80’s innovative center console, Heico’s interior designers decided to sweep the arc throughout the length of the interior, creating four sport bucket seats. The heavily bolstered thrones are separated by the console that is wrapped in stunning silver aluminum carbon fiber.

Paying homage to Volvo’s use of blue in its logo, nearly every surface that isn’t aluminum is swathed in soft Mystic Blue leather, including the headliner, instrument panel and door panels. The rear seats have been completely redesigned to accommodate the center console and the front seats have thicker side and thigh bolsters. Fully integrated controls for the rear seat entertainment system, cup holders and storage bins are all found beneath the gleaming aluminum “floating” center console. Interior trim panels and accents are bathed in silver carbon.

The S80 T6 HPC driver will find a thick, comfortable sport steering wheel with which to unleash the vehicle’s power. The sport pedals foot rest and door pins are all formed from billet aluminum. The crowing touch is the Mystic Blue glowing door-sill panels.

Exterior

Refined, elegant and stylish are all words that have been used to describe the Volvo S80. With Heico’s attention to the car’s exterior, words such as powerful, imposing and dominance may also be uttered when the car makes its North American debut at SEMA.

“Our goal was to take Volvo’s elegant design for the S80 and make it really stand out at this year’s show, said Hedtke, “That’s not an easy thing to do in Las Vegas, but everyone who sees the car agrees that it’s truly striking.”

What first leaps to the viewer’s attention is the striking “metal effect” paint scheme. Seven coats were applied over a two-week period and the process allows for no re-shoots or touch-ups making the Heico S80 T6 HPC truly inspiring. “We’re hoping that those in attendance at the SEMA show will drop by the Volvo booth to take a look at this car,” commented Hedtke. “Since there are so many custom paint jobs done by truly talented artists from around the world represented in Las Vegas, we feel the S80 T6 HPC will be truly appreciated.”

Nearly every panel of the Heico S80 T6 HPC was re-fabricated. The S80’s front clip was replaced with a more aggressive nose that incorporates ultra-slim LED turn-signal indicators, a deeper front air dam and wide intake tunnels for improved airflow into the intercooler and brakes.

The new soft nose seamlessly blends into the aggressive wheel arches that hug tightly around the custom 20-inch wheels and tires. Deep side sills beneath the doors lend to the aggressive stance of the vehicle and assist in aerodynamics. A completely new rear bumper cap features slender rectangular exhaust ports and carbon fiber inserts.
 

Volvo Heico C30 SEMA Concept
Windswept beaches, twisty island roads and outrageous North Shore waves have just landed in the middle of the Nevada desert. Yet this is not a mirage. It’s the groundswell of excitement generated by the debut of the breathtaking Volvo C30 by Heico Sportiv. One look at this modified special-version C30 is enough to spark island fever among those longing to leave civilization behind and embrace the Aloha spirit of adventure.

The beauty of Volvo’s new C30 is that it begs to be customized. Like a blank canvas or a pristine white sand beach, Heico’s designers dressed the solid white flanks of the C30’s exterior with a radiant, splashy orange surf-pattern kit. The bright orange wave originates at the lower front fenders, artfully climbs up the doors, crests the edges of the tailgate and wraps neatly around the rear fascia.

Inspired by the well-toned surfers who spend countless hours battling the waves, the Heico C30’s refined bodywork is rippling with its own athletic, muscular appearance. Widened fender flares and lower side skirts are painted to match the body for a seamless appearance. The front features integrated spoiler flaps, three larger air ducts, combined fog and cornering lights and a sport grille emblazoned with Volvo’s iron mark. A deeper and wider rear skirt frames quad stainless-steel exhaust pipes.

The hunkered-down look is further accentuated by a modified sport suspension with performance shocks and springs that lower the vehicle by 40 mm. An awesome set of 19-inch five-spoke light alloy VOLUTION® V TITAN wheels is wrapped with low-profile 235/35R19 Continental Sport Contact III tires. Bringing the action to a stop is the job of the enhanced four-piston brake system. Ocean-blue painted calipers displaying the Heico Sportiv logo grab onto 326 x 30 mm discs via sport brake pads.

Surfing is a highly addictive sport that’s guaranteed to generate an adrenaline rush for the experienced and novice alike. The same can be said about the enhanced capabilities of the Heico C30’s modified powerplant. The stock 2.5-liter 5-cylinder turbocharged engine has been massaged to deliver a robust 300 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a stout 309 lb.-ft. of torque at 3500 rpm. So equipped, Heico says this C30 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 5.4 seconds.

The turbocharger and intercooler have been modified for enhanced performance while breathing is improved via a Heico sport air filter. To ensure that the engine delivers the goods, Heico has fitted an enhanced ECU power upgrade to the show car. Since enthusiasts like to take matters into their own hands, the C30 is equipped with Volvo’s slick-shifting six-speed manual gearbox that transmits power to the front wheels. All of the safety features found on the production C30, including Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) remain operative on this totally radical ride.

Vibrant sights and sounds of the islands have been lavishly interpreted and applied to the Heico C30’s cabin. Open the door and even the most jaded dude or dudette is apt to exclaim “Cowabunga!” The interior takes the orange theme to the next level. Like a spectacular ocean sunset, tropical flowers or custom surfboard, the depth and richness of the hue is sure to cause double and triple takes.

The bespoke high-quality sport bucket seats emblazoned with the Heico Sportiv logos are swathed in rich orange leather with matching orange stitching. But the Heico team didn’t stop there. The material also covers the split-folding rear seats, door panels, steering wheel, floor console armrest, shift knob and parking brake handle. Meanwhile, the matching shade of orange has been skillfully applied to the dashboard, floor mats and even the seatbelts.

Building upon the C30’s high tech ambience, stainless steel doorsills with the Heico Sportiv logo add to the look of luxury. The C30’s signature super-slim center console is covered with brushed aluminum like the production car. The alloy theme continues with Heico’s aluminum pedal set, driver’s footrest and aluminum door pins.

The C30’s Premium Sound system, standard on the production T5 Version 2.0, features a digital 5×130W ICE Power amplifier from Alpine®, Dolby® Pro Logic II Surround and 10 loudspeakers from Danish speaker manufacturer Dynaudio®. Total output is an amazing 650 watts. Also included is an auxiliary audio jack for connecting MP3 players and an in-dash CD that can playback MP3 and WMA format music files.

Calling this specially prepared C30 a concept car is a bit of a misnomer. It’s more of an “idea car” that can be replicated by anyone with the desire and motivation to do so. “This is not just a one-off prototype,” says Holger Hedtke, president of German tuning and motor sports company Heico Sportiv. “All the performance parts used are available in our tuning product range.”
 

Volvo Caresto V8 Speedster Concept
First shown at last year’s SEMA show, the Caresto Hot Rod was so well received Volvo Cars brought it back for the 2007 show as a compliment to the Caresto C70 Convertible. Completely hand assembled from aluminum and carbon fiber, the Caresto Hot Rod features many Volvo parts, including the mid-engine 311-horsepower V8 engine. Craftsmanship is what sets the Caresto Hot Rod apart from many other custom cars. Precision fit and finish is evidenced on every body panel and stitch of premium leather.