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As reported leaked earlier, the car that helped jump-start Volvo's design revival is finally receiving its due. A (much-needed) newly available V8 engine produces 311 horsepower and 325 pounds/foot of torque, and AWD is now joined by Volvo's active Four-C chassis (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept). Safety, ever a Volvo priority, receives its due with a new patented structure, technologies such as adaptive cruise control, collision warning, and brake support systems.
Our man on the scene, Alberto from Autoblog Spanish hopes to have some non-blurry pics shortly (those Euro photogs have pointy elbows!), but until then, dear readers, sate yourself with a spate of Swedish stock shots.
[Roughly 32,631 pictures and full specifications after the jump.]
[Source: Volvo]
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The all new Volvo S80 to conquer new buyers
with Scandinavian luxury
• Inviting and intelligent combination of aesthetics and functional technology
• Emphasis on dynamism – both when it comes to design and driving properties
• Average production volume 50,000 cars per year
• USA will be the largest market
The all new Volvo S80 makes its entry onto the international stage with a highly unique strength:
“We’re challenging the very best in the segment by offering refined Scandinavian luxury,” says Fredrik Arp, president and CEO, Volvo Car Corporation. “In other words, clean and elegant lines combined with intelligent functionality. Every single detail has been designed with a firm focus on the user’s well-being.”
To Volvo Cars, “Scandinavian luxury” radiates with a different, more human prestige by combining aesthetics and technology in a way that is inviting, intelligent , and accessible.
Scandinavian luxury conveys an image of a person who is equally attracted by intelligent functionality and a feeling of responsibility as he or she is by aesthetics and prestige.
Evolutionary design
The all new Volvo S80 approaches such buyers with the next generation of Volvo design language, a technical content that gives the owner benefit or enjoyment in every single detail, and a sense of responsibility in the form of world-class safety as well as concern for the environment.
“We are convinced that we have a product that will win over many customers from our competitors. We expect that as much as 70 percent of the average volume – 50,000 cars a year – will go to buyers who do not drive a Volvo today,” says Fredrik Arp.
The all new Volvo S80 is being unveiled at the international motor show in Geneva, February 28, 2006. The five largest markets are the USA, Germany, United Kingdom, Sweden and China.
Refined design and well-being with intuitive technology
The second-generation Volvo S80 has a more compact and dynamic exterior. Inside, the new S80’s refined colors and materials in perfect harmony combines with intuitive technology creates an aura of well-being. In addition, the senses are further stirred by a sound system that is world class.
“It’s not about technical gadgetry and price. Instead, we approached the new S80 as a complete entity where highly advanced yet easy to use technical solutions provide occupants a comfortable, dynamic and safe driving experience. The driver should have control – both over the car and over the vehicle’s interaction with the surrounding traffic,” explains Silvia Güllsdorf, S80 Project Director.
Engine range – from a new in-line six to one of the most efficient V8s on the market
The project team developing the all new Volvo S80 clearly set their sights on increased driving pleasure. A few examples of their focus:
• Volvo’s compact transverse V8 produces 311 horsepower and 325 lb/ft of torque.
• The engine range also includes an entirely new six-cylinder injection engine with a displacement of 3.2 litres and 235 horsepower, with 236 lb/ft of torque.
• The all new S80 is also available with All Wheel Drive, as well as the active Four-C chassis (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept).
“We’re enhancing our competitiveness in the USA with a V8 in this segment – a must in order to succeed. And similarly in Europe, a really strong diesel alternative is most important,” says Fredrik Arp. “We must capitalize on the leverage we garnered from the first-generation S80 and the XC90, which have made us an established and highly respected brand in the premium segment,” he asserts.
World-class safety
As with any Volvo car, the focal point is safety. With a new patented structure and new active safety systems, the all new S80 ushers in a new era for world class safety. The all new S80 is the first Volvo model with Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning and Brake Support – taking active safety applications to the next level. With the next generation S80, Volvo is positioned to challenge the very best in the segment by offering refined Scandinavian luxury and unsurpassed safety refinements.
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The all new Volvo S80 – chassis
Advanced technology provides premium driving experience
• Highly advanced body structure boasts exceptional torsional rigidity
• Active chassis helps improve the driving properties, whatever the situation
• All-Wheel Drive power distribution ensures the best possible roadholding
• Adjustable power steering and electronic parking brake makes road life easier for the driver
The all new Volvo S80 has been developed to provide a superior experience behind the wheel.
Body rigidity and an optional active chassis contribute to excellent driving dynamics. Three distinct chassis settings allow the driver to alter the cars’ personality to suit personal tastes.
And, to facilitate optimal power efficiency and roadholding in all situations the V8 model is equipped with Volvo’s All-Wheel Drive system.
The entire car, not just the driveline, has been developed and honed to provide a driving experience of absolute premium calibre. The entirely new body features a highly-advanced structure with exceptional torsional rigidity, which not only contributes to excellent deformation properties in case of a collision, is also crucial to good driving properties.
In addition, the chassis has been developed to ensure even more stability, predictability and controlled behavior on the road. A great deal of attention has also been invested in the suspension system and engine installation, reaping the benefits of an uncompromisingly comfortable drive and ride.
Active chassis with Four-C – and three choices
The all new Volvo S80 with a V8 or in-line six-cylinder engine can be optionally specified with an active chassis based on Volvo’s Four-C technology (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept). This is an advanced self-adjusting chassis system that uses a number of sensors to continuously monitor the cars’ behavior. The dampers can readjust to the current driving situation in a mere fraction of a second.
Four-C modifies the chassis setting to suit the cars’ speed (the higher the speed – the greater the damping). As a result, the car remains easy to control even at higher speeds. This technology also reduces the cars’ tendency to squat, dip or roll under firm acceleration, hard braking or quick steering maneuvers.
“The active chassis adds an extra dimension to the driving pleasure,” says Silvia Güllsdorf, S80 Project Director at Volvo Cars. “The driving properties improve whatever the situation. Progress is both safer and more entertaining.”
The current Four-C system ups the ante from the previous S80 model and now offers three alternative chassis settings instead of the previous two. The driver simply presses a button to alter the cars’ personality to suit his or her personal tastes.
• COMFORT optimizes suspension settings for relaxed driving, with gentle, harmonious body movements
• SPORT provides more controlled body movements, faster steering response and added road contact
• ADVANCED minimizes damper movement and maximizes contact between the tires and the surface of the road – a setting for enthusiastic driving on smooth tarmac.
In an emergency situation, however, it makes no difference which alternative the driver has selected. Four-C always reacts to help the driver by automatically stabilizing the car.
All-Wheel Drive
The V8 model of the all new Volvo S80 is equipped with Volvo’s advanced All-Wheel Drive system. With the help of an electronically controlled hydraulic clutch, All-Wheel Drive distributes the power between the front and rear wheels to ensure the best possible road handling, in all situations. The latest version of the system features Instant Traction, which seamlessly switches power from the front to the rear wheels when starting off on a slippery or loose surface.
The All-Wheel Drive system has been beefed up to be compatible with the powerful new engines.
Adjustable power steering
Speed-sensitive power steering is an option in the new Volvo S80. The system provides more power assistance at low speeds, to make parking easier for example. The power assistance gradually declines as road speed increases, disappearing entirely at high cruising speeds.
In addition, the level of power assist ance can now be adjusted by way of the cars’ information and set-up system. Power steering assistance can be set at one of three levels, to provide customized level of road feel and steering feedback.
Power Parking Brake
To assist from a standing start on an uphill gradient, V8 versions of the all new Volvo S80 are equipped with an intelligent electronically operated Power Parking Brake. This makes taking off far easier for the driver. If the parking brake is engaged at a stop light, for instance, it is automatically released as the car moves off.
S80 cars without Power Parking Brake have a pedal-operated parking brake.
DSTC fitted as standard
DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) is fitted as standard in the all new Volvo S80. DSTC is a stabilization system which reduces the engine’s torque and applies suitable braking force to help reduce the risk of a skid, when necessary.
“Each one of these systems contributes to both safer driving and greater driving pleasure,” says Silvia Güllsdorf. “The systems in concert in the all new Volvo S80 offers a particularly high-class driving experience, whatever the driving conditions.”
The all new Volvo S80 – drivelines
Performance and driving comfort in the premium class
• The world’s most compact V8 engine
• All new, transverse, six-cylinder, in-line engine
With the all new Volvo S80, Volvo Cars further reinforces its position in the prestigious premium car segment.
A powerful, impressive-sounding V8 engine and an entirely new, extremely compact, in-line six offer top-class performance and driving comfort.
Like other Volvo cars, the Volvo S80 is designed for a transverse engine and front-wheel drive or All-Wheel Drive. An engine transversely mounted results in an engine compartment with an increased crumple zone for deformation in the event of a collision, and also helps create a spacious passenger compartment. With a generous measure of creativity and advanced engine technology, Volvo has successfully fitted the larger six-cylinder and V8 engines transversely.
First Volvo sedan with V8 power
The all new Volvo S80 is the first Volvo sedan to be powered by the compact, transverse V8 engine, initially launched in the 2005 Volvo XC90. A unique design with a slim 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks makes this an extremely compact V8 engine. And by reversing the traditional offset of the cylinders and placing the left row ahead of the right, the engine has the optimum shape for fitting into the car’s body structure. Furthermore, the entire engine is made of aluminium, resulting in low weight and good fuel economy. A counter-rotating balancer shaft reduces noise, vibration, and harshness.
In addition to being efficient, the V8 engine is immensely powerful. With 4.4 liters of displacement, output is rated at 311 bhp and no less than 325 lb/ft of torque for the power and high-speed performance needed for particularly enthusiastic driving. For everyday driving, over 85% of peak of torque is available from 2000 RPM.
“With a powerful V8 in the S80, we can reach out to the most discerning customers,” says Derek Crabb, Vice President Powertrain at Volvo Cars. “In the prestige class, there are many buyers who would never consider any other engine alternative.”
Equally notable the Volvo engine is one of the cleanest V8s on the market.
Four catalytic converters – two of which are positioned close to the engine – and a highly advanced engine management system contribute to quick start-up of the filtration process thus reducing exhaust emissions to a minimum (which satisfies ULEV II and Euro 4 requirements).
In order to further improve fuel economy, the V8 engine is equipped with a variable camshaft timing as well as a variable intake system.
New six-cylinder in-line engine – two engines in one
Together with the all new Volvo S80, Volvo Cars is launching an entirely new high-efficiency six-cylinder in-line engine. Its main structure is made of aluminium and has a larger displacement than its predecessor, with more power and greater torque. The new in-line engine features an advanced valve train and a variable intake system that contribute to both good performance and high fuel efficiency. Several innovative solutions have also made it possible to build the engine within extremely compact dimensions.
The valve train features VCT (Variable Cam Timing) and CPS (Cam Profile Switching) on the inlet side – two key elements in providing the engine with excellent driveability and flexibility.
With CPS, the intake valves can be lifted to two different heights depending on engine speed and load.
In normal driving, with normal throttle opening and low engine revs, fuel consumption is reduced, modest while torque is sufficient to provide good driveability.
For more enthusiastic driving that involves full throttle opening and high engine revs, throttle response is heightened and provides a massive thrust of power, both at low and at high speeds.
“In principle, Cam Profile Switching creates two engines in one,” explains Derek Crabb. “We can unite widely differing demands on one and the same engine and easily meet the requirements of customers with entirely different driving styles. Our focus is just as much on satisfying customers who prioritize performance as those who are more interested in driving comfort and fuel economy.”
VIS (Variable Intake System) consists of two throttle flap valves which adjust the intake manifold volume to suit the current driving situation.
“With the Variable Intake System we can exploit the engine’s capacity to the maximum and extract the maximum power possible throughout the entire rev range,” says Derek Crabb.
Like the V8 engine, the six-cylinder engine is mated to a six-speed automatic Geartronic transmission allowing the driver to change gears manually.
Compact format contributes to impressive collision safety
Despite the engine’s 3.2 liter displacement, it has extremely compact exterior dimensions. The complete engine package is only 1/10th of an inch longer than Volvo’s five-cylinder engine. The total engine length is 25 inches.
“A compact format is a matter of safety,” explains Derek Crabb. “It is particularly important that the engine takes up minimal longitudinal space in the vehicle. The way we see it, a compact transversely installed engine is the best way of reducing the risk of intrusion into the passenger compartment in a collision.”
The engine’s compact format has been achieved by locating the ancillaries, such as the power-assisted steering pump and air conditioning compressor, behind the engine in the space above the gearbox. Consequently, there is no front-end drive of the ancillaries. Instead they are driven via gears by the rear end of the crankshaft. This engineering solution is known as READ – Rear End Ancillary Drive. The alternator is direct-driven and installed on the engine block. This solution means that the entire engine and transmission package takes up minimum space, particularly in the car’s longitudinal direction.
By designing the drive system in the form of a small gearbox with an intermediate shaft inside the driveshaft – known as a Shaft in Shaft design – it was possible to ensure a very short package. The two shafts are driven by different gears that give them different speeds (one speed for camshaft drive and one for the ancillaries).
“It’s a particularly compact solution that is the result of highly advanced development work,” explains Derek Crabb.
Engine noise is minimized in the passenger cabin by using a vibration damper, which is integrated into the six-cylinder engine’s relatively long crankshaft.
“All told, the new six-cylinder engine offers a premium experience in every respect,” comments Derek Crabb in referencing the engine’s performance, fuel efficiency, driving comfort, as well as its sound. The fact that the engine’s design also helps enhance safety isn’t something the customer usually thinks about but it is naturally a key element in a Volvo product concept,” he adds.
Engine range – petrol
Engine Configuration Power bhp Torque lb/ft
4.4 V8 V8 311 325
3.2 I6 I6 235 236
All new Volvo S80 – Preventive Safety
Advanced driving systems contribute
to increased Safety
• A new generation of driving and support systems helps the driver to make the right decision
• BLIS and IDIS make it easier to control the driving situation
• Active Bi-Xenon Light follows the bends in the road
• New advanced functions help shorten the braking distance
The all new Volvo S80 ushers in a new generation of advanced driving and support systems that interact intelligently. The results: safer driving characteristics and greater comfort. While driving at night, swivel headlights serve to improve the driver’s range of vision. And from outside of the vehicle, S80 owners will be able to detect possible intruders in the car, from a distance.
There’s no question that the most effective way to protect occupants of a car is collision avoidance. That’s why when Volvo Cars set about developing the new S80 model, helping drivers to avoid accidents was a clear-cut starting point. To achieve the company’s uncompromising safety objectives an entirely new generation of advanced driving and support systems was developed, some of which have been presented previously as prototypes.
“Our preventive safety systems are not designed to take over the driving nor the driver’s responsibility,” says Silvia Güllsdorf, S80 Project Director at Volvo Cars. “The aim is to help the driver to make the correct decision in difficult situations by issuing a warning and in different ways indicate how to deal with the situation.”
Adaptive Cruise Control
To help the driver maintain distance to the car in front, Volvo Cars developed the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). At first glance, the ACC may be viewed as a comfort function but upon further review the system actually contributes to more controlled driving when traffic flow is uneven. This technology also forms the basis for several of the new safety systems.
The Adaptive Cruise Control uses a radar sensor to continuously measure the distance to vehicles ahead and automatically adapts the speed of the car to help ensure a safe distance.
The driver activates the cruise control, setting the desired maximum speed at between 20 and 125 mph and chooses the minimum time interval to vehicles in front. There are five different time intervals to choose from.
“As the Adaptive Cruise Control handles part of the routine driving operations the driver can focus further ahead,” says Silvia Güllsdorf. “A driver that has greater foresight often drives with greater margins for safety.”
Collision Warning with Brake Support
Rear-end collisions are a common type of accident. The most common reason: the driver was distracted and failed to react in time.
In the light of this, Volvo Cars has developed Collision Warning with Brake Support (CW). This advanced system with its support functions helps to avoid rear-end collisions, or minimize the effect of such a collision.
The area in front of the car is monitored continuously with the aid of a radar sensor. The system is activated in different ways at different phases throughout the whole course of events.
If the driver approaches another moving vehicle from the rear and the driver does not react, a red warning light flashes on the windscreen. At the same time, an audible signal can be heard. In certain situations this is sufficient for the driver to react and avoid the hazard.
If the risk of a collision increases, despite the warning, the brake support is activated. To shorten the reaction time the brake pads are placed against the discs. The brake pressure is also reinforced hydraulically, ensuring effective braking irrespective of the pressure applied to the brake pedal.
“If the rate of speed is not too great the brake support will help reduce the effect of a collision,” says Silvia Güllsdorf while reinforcing that the driver’s reactions are always crucial to the outcome.
If a driver brakes hard, the brake lights will flash to warn drivers in on-coming traffic. Hazard warning lights are also activated, when the speed is reduced to less than 20 mph. There are three sensitivity settings on the warning system to adapt to different conditions and individual driving styles. The sensitivity can be regulated in the car’s setting menu.
Advanced information systems contribute to better driver control
The all new Volvo S80 is also equipped with BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) and IDIS (Intelligent Driver Information System), two systems that will help the driver to maintain better control over a variety of driving situations.
With the aid of cameras beside the door mirrors, BLIS registers if another vehicle is in the blind spot alongside the car. In such a situation a warning light beside the mirror is activated to alert the driver, improving the scope to make the correct decision.
IDIS is an electronic information management system that minimizes driver distracted in stressful situations. By continuously checking certain functions in the car, such as wheel movements, movement of the accelerator pedal, indicator control and braking, IDIS can assess the complexity of the situation. The information is processed and at a certain level any information that is not crucial to safety, such as an incoming telephone call or a text message, is delayed.
Active Bi-Xenon Light – swivelling headlights
To produce an optimal range of vision when driving in the dark on winding roads, Volvo Cars has launched the Active Bi-Xenon Light – swivelling headlights that follow the bends in the road. Road situations are measured and analyzed using a mini-processor which then optimizes the lighting. The headlights can be swivelled by up to 15 degrees in each direction, totalling 30 degrees, and thus have the capacity to illuminate a longer distance when the road is winding. To save wear on the system, this function is disconnected automatically in daylight.
The angle of the headlights adjusts to variables such as vehicle load, acceleration, and braking to help reduce the risk of blinding oncoming road users The headlights are cleaned by means of an electro-mechanical, high-pressure system that washes one headlight at a time, always offering the best possible light.
Brakes with new, advanced deceleration functions
The all new Volvo S80 has a highly advanced braking system with several new functions that interact to ensure the shortest possible braking distance in all situations.
HYDRAULIC BRAKE ASSIST (HBA) is a new generation of Volvo’s panic brake assistant. It helps the driver to brake in the shortest possible distance in an emergency. As opposed to earlier systems, which are based purely on vacuum, the braking pressure is also reinforced hydraulically. In an emergency situation where the driver does not press the brake pedal sufficiently hard, HBA helps to ensure the ABS system is used optimally and the braking distance shortened.
OPTIMISED HYDRAULIC BRAKES (OHB) reinforces the braking capacity in conjunction with hard braking by using hydraulics to compensate for low vacuum pressure in the brake servo.
READY ALERT BRAKES (RAB) can predict rapid braking and thus place the brake pads against the brake discs even before the driver presses the brake pedal. In doing so, the braking system’s reaction time – and braking distance – is reduced. The signal to the braking system could be that the accelerator pedal is released quickly or that the Adaptive Cruise Control registers an obstacle in front of the car.
FADING BRAKE SUPPORT (FBS) uses hydraulics to gradually build up the braking pressure in conjunction with persistently hard braking to help reduce the risk of wear and retained pedal feeling.
Self-Supporting Tires and Tire Pressure Monitoring System
There are places where a puncture is particularly unwelcome. With reinforced tires – Self-Supporting Tires – the driver can continue driving to a more secure place where the tire can be changed. The optional Self-Supporting Tires available on the all new Volvo S80 are made with extra thick tire walls to prevent the tire from collapsing. The tire is designed to be driven up to 50 miles at a maximum speed of 50 mph following a puncture.
Self-Supporting Tires are combined with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), that warns of low pressure in the tires. Each tire is fitted with a combination sensor/transmitter that registers when the pressure falls below a certain level and transmits a signal to a control unit. Information text and a warning light warns the driver.
All new Volvo S80 – Protective safety
Advanced, holistic safety technology
for the all new Volvo S80
• Patented front structure with a high-energy absorption capacity
• Compact, transverse engines with space for effective deformation
• Side impact airbags with separate chest and hip chambers
• Next generation WHIPS whiplash protection system
• Pedestrian impact protection for reduced risk of injury
The all new Volvo S80 has been developed to be one of the safest cars in its class, with a sophisticated network of interacting safety systems. The patented front structure absorbs energy effectively. The interior protection system has been developed further with a new generation of side impact airbags and whiplash protection.
The all new Volvo S80 has been built to provide a high level of protection in various types of collisions. The first vehicle to achieve 5-star crash ratings in the United States builds on Volvo’s safety tradition. “The next generation S80 features a patented advanced body structure, offering high torsion rigidity which very effectively contributes to impact energy absorption,” says Silvia Güllsdorf, S80 Project Director at Volvo Cars.
Deformation zones and different grades of steel
The patented front body structure in the all new Volvo S80 has been divided into zones, each with a different task during the deformation process. The outer zones are responsible for most of the deformation. The closer the collision forces get to the passenger compartment the less the material deforms.
To give each zone the correct properties, the steel grades have been varied. Four different grades of steel are used. Apart from conventional bodywork steel, three different grades of high-strength steel are strategically placed: High Strength Steel, Extra High Strength Steel and Ultra High Strength Steel.
“With the zone system we can make maximum use of the properties of the material to ensure the best energy absorption,” says Silvia Güllsdorf. “The aim is for the passenger compartment to be preserved predictably in variety of collision scenarios.”
LOW-SPEED DEFORMATION ZONE
The front bumper incorporates a rigid crossmember made of Ultra High-Strength Steel. The attachments to the body’s longitudinal members are designed in the form of “crash boxes”. These help absorb the forces in a low-speed collision without damage to the other parts of the body structure.
HIGH-SPEED DEFORMATION ZONE
The straight parts of the longitudinal members are made of High-Strength Steel, a very ductile steel that is optimized for high-energy absorption. This zone accounts for most of the deformation.
BACK-UP ZONE
The section of the crossmember that turns outward towards the A-pillars act as a barrier to help protect the passenger compartment, serving as a back-up to reduce deformation. The design also contributes to minimize the risk of the front wheel penetrating the passenger compartment. Instead, the wheel helps to absorb the collision forces. This section is very rigid and is made of Extra High-Strength Steel.
THREE-WAY ATTACHMENT
A rigid side member links the A-pillars and the lower side members so that they form an extremely rigid three-way attachment on each side. The design contributes significantly to protecting the passenger compartment in a serious collision.
Compact, transverse engines contribute to crash safety
As with other Volvo cars the all new Volvo S80 features a transverse driveline and front-wheel drive. The transverse mounting gives the engine a greater deformation capacity in the engine compartment and contributes to reducing the risk of penetrating the passenger compartment in a frontal collision.
The larger six- and eight-cylinder engines in the new S80 are both transversely mounted, thanks to an extremely compact format and effective packing in the engine compartment.
“There is a great deal of creativity and advanced engine technology behind these solutions,” says Silvia Güllsdorf. “For instance, we have succeeded in making the new six-cylinder in-line engine almost as short as our five-cylinder engine.”
Side impact airbags and doubly adapted pressure
A new type of side collision airbag elevates the patented Volvo SIPS (Side Impact Protection System) to become even more effective.
The new side impact airbags have two separate chambers – one for the hips and one for the chest. As the hips can withstand greater forces than the chest, the lower chamber can be inflated to a pressure that is up to five times higher than in the upper chamber.
The side impact airbags interact with the inflatable curtains and the body’s crossmember structure to offer the most effective protection possible.
Both the sills as well as the B-pillars have been reinforced to reduce the risk of penetrating the passenger compartment. Among other things, an extra steel profile has been placed inside the sill member.
New WHIPS generation
The Volvo system for avoiding soft tissue and neck injuries – WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) – is one of the most effective on the market. In a serious rear-end collision the front seat back support and head restraint follow the movement of the body, suppressing the forces in roughly the same way as when catching a ball.
The WHIPS mechanism has now been developed even further, making the ‘catching’ action even more compliant and contributing to even better contact between head and head restraint throughout the whole process.
Protection for other road users
The all new Volvo S80 safety developments also include protection for pedestrians and cyclists. The front has energy-absorbing features, including a well-proportioned, soft structure in front of the bumper. This helps to counteract the risk of leg injuries. In addition, the lower edge of the spoiler has been reinforced and moved forward, almost in line with the bumper. The aim is for the load, on a leg for example, to be distributed evenly over a greater area to reduce the risk of injury.
The shape of the hood has been raised and underneath a honeycomb structure distributes the load on impact. In doing so, the design contributes to absorbing the forces and reducing the risks of injury.
Also built for children
The all new Volvo S80 has, like other Volvo cars, been developed with children in mind. The safety structure of the body and the interior protection system have been designed and dimensioned to also help protect the very young.
Other safety solutions in the all new Volvo S80
• A collapsible steering wheel, which during deformation is moved horizontally for the best possible interaction with the airbag
• Pedals with a collapse function
• Airbags with a dual-stage function
• Seatbelt pretensioners for all five seating positions
• Seatbelt reminder for all five seating positions
• Force limiters for the front seatbelts
• Reinforced, transversely mounted pipe between the A-pillars (contributes to side impact protection)
• Reinforced and rigid SIPS pipes in the seats and a deformable steel box in the center of the car
• Diagonally mounted crossmembers made of Ultra High Strength Steel in the doors
The all new Volvo S80 – audio, phone and navigation systems
Audio and communication systems of premium luxury class
• Digital technology contributes to natural sound reproduction
• Dolby Pro Logic II Surround with adjustable audio profile
• World-renowned loudspeakers from Dynaudio
• MP3 and WMA formats
• Handsfree with cell phone and Bluetooth
• Faster Navigation
The all new Volvo S80 has been designed to provide a total experience of unparalleled quality - luxury with Scandinavian touches in design, function, comfort and, not least, audio excellence. With help from some of the most outstanding audio manufacturers in the world, Volvo Cars has developed a premier sound system for its new prestige model. The digital amplifier from Alpine and the Dolby Pro Logic II Surround system integrate with technologically advanced loudspeakers from Denmark’s Dynaudio to produce an incomparable audio experience.
“This car offers excellent attributes for high-class sound reproduction,” says Silvia Güllsdorf, S80 Project Director at Volvo Cars. “High-quality materials, a well-dimensioned interior and effective sound-damping material contributes to a particularly favourable audio environment. The Volvo audio systems are among the very best available in the automotive world.”
Digital technology contributes to natural sound profile
Using advanced digital technology, audio reproduction is optimized to match integrated into the shape of the passenger compartment and the strategic location of the loudspeakers. With DSP (Digital Signal Processing), the tone curve has been finely tuned to create authentic, quality sound.
Developed with Alpine, Volvo’s digital class D amplifier features high efficiency and low current consumption. This means it produces less heat than an analogue amplifier and it can be made more compact.
Volvo’s amplifier also has a very high attenuation rate, thanks to ICEPower® technology from Danish experts Bang & Olufsen PowerHouse a/s. This system contributes to the clear and powerful sound all the way down to the deepest bass tones.
Automatic volume and tone adjustment
Thanks to the use of digital technology, the sound can be adjusted to suit driving conditions as they change – automatically adjusting not only volume but also tone to match the car’s speed. The car’s menu system opens up a range of possibilities – catering to individual preferences, including accommodations for road speed. There are three levels to choose between: low, medium, and high.
Two performance levels
The all new Volvo S80 is available with a choice of audio system levels:
• High Performance – with 4x40 W amplifier and eight loudspeakers
• Premium Sound – with 5x130 W digital amplifier, Dolby® Pro Logic II Surround and up to twelve loudspeakers.
Dolby Pro Logic II Surround with individual adjustment of audio profile
Volvo Cars was the first auto manufacturer with a factory-fitted audio system featuring Dolby® Pro Logic Surround. The relationship dates back to 1997, when Dolby technology was introduced in the first-generation Volvo C70. Pro Logic Surround was developed to produce natural-sounding multi-channel audio reception. Dolby’s latest generation in surround sound technology, Dolby Pro Logic II Surround, is offered in the all new Volvo S80. The system is 5.1-channel, offering a broad audio profile to the front seats and genuine stereo effect and full bandwidth to the rear seats. What’s more, the sound from the front and rear loudspeakers blends smoothly to create pleasing audio immersion.
Contributing to the best possible individual sound experience, the Premium Sound system has a new adjustment option. The audio profile can be optimized for the best possible sound experience with three orientations – the driver’s seat, both front seats, or the rear seats. These settings are made via the car’s information system in the trim center stack.
“This is a good way to avoid compromise on sound quality,” says Silvia Güllsdorf. “A driver traveling alone in the car can adjust the sound system entirely to suit his or her personal tastes. The system is capable of delivering crisp quality sound regardless of how many passengers are in the car.”
Loudspeakers from Dynaudio of Denmark
The loudspeakers in the all new Volvo S80 are of exceptional quality, in every respect. The Premium Sound system loudspeakers are from Denmark’s renowned Dynaudio®, with whom Volvo has long enjoyed close cooperation.
“We both share the same uncompromising attitude toward audio quality,” explains Silvia Güllsdorf. “Together, we have acquired in-depth knowledge about the effect a car’s interior can have on sound. The result is a truly high-class audio reproduction. That is why we’re also placing the Dynaudio logotype on the instrument panel of the all new Volvo S80 – it represents a crowning achievement for both our companies.”
The front doors have well-dimensioned, three-way loudspeakers. The rear doors feature two-way loudspeakers, including a tweeter element, and a combination bass and intermediate register element, with powerful cones. The tweeter element is made of a textile known as ‘a silk dome tweeter’ – a Dynaudio speciality – that helps create a more crystal-clear sound. Each loudspeaker is constructed with a passive crossover filter, providing a harmonious total sound experience with the best possible bandwidth and dynamism.
A specially developed center loudspeaker atop the instrument panel works together with the door loudspeakers to create a natural, homogeneous sound profile.
“We are very proud of the audio experience we can offer in the all new Volvo S80,” says Silvia Güllsdorf. “It’s easy to forget that you’re actually in a car, and not in a concert hall.”
Plays MP3 format
With the High Performance and Premium Sound systems, it is now possible to play CDs with music in MP3 or WMA format. This means that the CD changer can store several hundred music tracks, giving the driver access to large parts of his or her home music library, in the car.
In addition, all the audio systems now feature an extra input (AUX) for connection of additional equipment such as a portable MP3 player.
In order to further enhance the quality of radio reception, the FM radio utilizes a system know as Scanning Diversity which takes advantage of three antennas, which interact with each other to provide the best possible reception.
Cell phone in the car with Bluetooth wireless hands-free function
In the all new Volvo S80, it will be possible to use a regular cell phone in combination with the car’s loudspeakers – wirelessly – courtesy of Bluetooth® technology. After the Bluetooth system has been activated, the car’s phone module detects and registers the cell phone, then automatically links it to the car’s own system. Once registered, it operates as part of the integrated handsfree system. SMS text messages and other information can be read in the car’s information display and incoming phone calls automatically mute the sound from the audio system.
With Bluetooth and a regular cell phone, you always have access to the same phone directory. Furthermore, several phones can easily be linked to the same network so that everyone using the car can have his or her own phone connected. However, only one phone is prioritized for automatic activation at a time.
“In this way, you are truly mobile,” says Silvia Güllsdorf. “No switching between different phones and no delay when getting out of the car. And you don’t need to stay seated in your parked car just because you’re in the middle of a handsfree call. You simply pick up the call on your cell phone and leave the car, continuing your conversation without interruption.”
New generation Volvo Navigation System
Volvo’s Navigation System has been further refined in a number of ways. There is a wider range of maps and there are now three DVD discs for the USA, where Hawaii and Canada have been added. The contents have also been updated with the latest roads, restaurants and hotels.
The system has been further enhanced with a new processor, which among other things makes for far faster route searching than before. Furthermore, new information such as the national flag and facts about the country, speed limits and rules governing phone use while driving all appear on the screen whenever you cross a national border.
“Convenient and functional systems give the new Volvo S80 owner simpler, more comfortable travel,” says Silvia Güllsdorf. “And it is made all the more user-friendly with larger controls, easy to read displays and logical interfaces. These aren’t simply there for added comfort,, ease of use also means added safety on the road.”
All new Volvo S80 – Executive concept
All new Volvo S80 Executive with enhanced prestige
• Tasteful, Scandinavian elegance
• Luxurious interior with high-quality leather and walnut-coloured wood
• Integrated DVD system and refrigerator as options
• Powerful, energy-efficient engines
With the on-sale date of the all new Volvo S80, which will be presented for the first time in Geneva on February 28, the car will also offer consumers a prestigious Executive model.
Unique details and rich content will reinforce Volvo Cars’ position in the prestige automotive segment.
The all new Volvo S80 is the most exclusive Volvo sedan model to date. The Executive model represents a very competitive alternative for customers who value refined, Scandinavian elegance in combination with contemporary engineering, and who are looking for a little extra luxury to enhance the experience. They are customers with strict demands for a thoughtful design, sophisticated comfort and detail with intelligently engineered functions.
“It is our aim that Executive customers will appreciate the extra thought,” says Karin Falk, President Special Vehicles at Volvo Cars. “We really have made an effort to strike the right balance between attractiveness and functionality in order to provide a high-class experience that satisfies all the senses.”
Exclusive exterior with unique parts
The Executive badge is a discreet indication that this is an S80 beyond the norm. Among the exterior details that give the all new Volvo S80 Executive a more exclusive character are the uniquely coloured grille and the chrome sections on the air intake and around the fog-lights. Even the lower door mouldings and rear lights have chrome trim.
Four of the seven alternative exterior colours are pearl finishes with a very elegant lustre. The exclusive, turbine-like eighteen-inch Balius wheel is an option and adds yet another dimension to the feeling of exclusivity.
First-class passenger compartment with leather and wood
Ergonomic seats and elegant door panels clad in soft Executive leather in four optional colour combinations and with Classic cut contribute to the distinct first-class feeling in the passenger compartment. The combinations have been selected to provide an exclusive contrast. The walnut panels are standard and cover the centre console and the rear-facing portion of the tunnel console.
Specially designed, extra thick carpets reinforce the sober impression. The opportunity to install a fridge in the rear seat, combined with storage space for glasses, also contributes to the enhanced feeling of luxury and comfort.
As an option, there is an advanced entertainment system for rear seat passengers (Rear Seat Entertainment – RSE). An integrated DVD player, 7-inch screens built into the head restraints, wireless headphones and a remote control are included in the system. An extra socket makes it possible to connect a second DVD player, a game console or a video camera. The two 7-inch screens can be used independently of each other.
Powerful driveline
The engine range for the Executive model includes the powerful V8 engine as well as Volvo’s new six-cylinder in-line engine. All are powerful, energy-efficient, extremely compact and mounted transversely in the engine compartment for optimum safety and a spacious passenger compartment.
Petrol engines
Engine Configuration Output bhp Torque lb/ft
4.4 V8 V8 311 325
3.2 I6 I6 235 236
Descriptions and facts in this press material relate to Volvo Cars’ international car range.
Vehicle specifications may vary from one country to another and may be altered without prior notification.