New cars on show: S60, V60 (including the V60 plug-in hybrid), XC60, S80, V70 and XC70 refreshed models
Six-model refresh
Volvo designers probably need to have a sit down with a nice cup of tea and a biscuit.
Why? I hear you ask.
Well, six of their models have been given a wash and brush-up and it’s very welcome because all of them were looking a little tired.
Included in the major refresh are the S60, V60 (hybrid also), XC60, S80, V70 and XC70. Yes, they’ve all had a nose-job and some fancy new lighting, but it’s inside where the best step forward has been made. Better materials, decluttered dashboards, clearer instrumentation and the addition of new technology are all part of the 2013 look.
The big breakthrough, technology-wise, is Volvo’s Cyclist Detection system which forms part of its Pedestrian Detection system.
It uses both radar and a camera to detect what the object in front is and how close it is. If it detects pedestrian or cyclist pulling out in front of the car it will automatically apply the brakes to prevent an accident.
The system will be available from mid-May 2013 on the new Volvo V40, S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and S80.
Not content with that tech break through Volvo has also updated its Active High Beam Control that makes it possible to use high beam continuously without dazzling oncoming drivers.
The main advantage of Active High Beam Control is that the traffic environment outside the shaded area is still illuminated by the high beam. This improves the driver’s chances of detecting objects at the side of the road, such as parked cars, unprotected road users and animals.
When an oncoming car approaches or when catching up with another car from behind, the system helps to prevent dazzling of the other driver by shading out only as much of the beam as necessary.
The Active High beam Control, which also works for motorcycles ahead, features xenon lamps. The technology is active at speeds as low as 9mph. It will be available in the Volvo S60, V60 and XC60 from spring 2013.
For more information on the multi-model refresh click here.
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